Cardi B made her highly anticipated Tiny Desk debut on October 19, delivering an energetic performance backed by an impressive group of musicians.
The rapper performed eight songs spanning her albums Invasion of Privacy and Am I The Drama?, turning the usually intimate NPR setting into a memorable celebration of her music.
While Cardi took centre stage, the musicians supporting her brought years of experience working with some of the biggest names in music.
Meet Cardi B’s Tiny Desk Band
Eugene “Man-Man” Roberts – Keyboards
The Philadelphia musician began playing drums in church before becoming a keyboardist, arranger and musical director. His credits include work with John Legend, Ye, J. Cole, Snoop Dogg and Jeremih.
CJ Thompson – Drums
Thompson has toured and recorded with artists including Tamia, Migos, Charlie Puth, Missy Elliott, Chris Brown and Roddy Ricch. He also previously worked with Cardi during her 2022 Wireless Festival performance.
Clay Sears – Guitar
The guitarist and producer has worked across pop, hip-hop and R&B with artists including Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Lauryn Hill and Britney Spears.
Kenneth Whalum – Saxophone
The Memphis-born saxophonist, singer and producer has credits on projects by Jay-Z, Beyoncé and Mac Miller. He has also worked with Maxwell as both a saxophonist and horn arranger.
Melvin Jones – Trumpet
Jones’ career includes work with Usher, Stevie Wonder, Patti LaBelle and Missy Elliott. He also served as Morehouse College’s head band director.
DJ Ray G – DJ
Before becoming Cardi B’s touring DJ, Ray G worked with Migos and helped introduce the group’s music to Atlanta club audiences. He joined Cardi’s team in 2018.
Adam Blackstone – Musical Director and Bass
Blackstone has served as musical director for Rihanna, Justin Timberlake, Janet Jackson and Eminem. He also won an Emmy for his work on the 2022 Super Bowl halftime show.
Ebony Joi Franklin and Tiffany Freeman – Background Vocals
Franklin has performed with Eminem, The Roots and Usher, while Freeman’s credits include Tyler, the Creator, Jazmine Sullivan and Mary J. Blige.
With such an accomplished lineup behind her, Cardi B’s Tiny Desk debut proved to be about more than just the headline performance — it was a showcase of some of the industry’s finest live musicians.
Main Image: NPR
