Jun 193 min read

Great Expectations

Childish Gambino recently announced 'The New World Tour' after releasing Atavista, a remixed and remastered version of his old album 3.15.20. He's set to release one more album for his film Bando Stone & the New World.

If there's anything I can compare my feelings about this to, it's probably how people in the UK felt when the Queen died. I've never had an artist constant in my music rotation like Gambino, and even though it started a love-hate relationship, I can call him my favorite ever. 3.15.20 is his first album that I fell in love with, and I was nervous about Atavista - what would be the same and what would change. Nothing needed to change, in my opinion, but I was more than happy with the result. At the same time, I hate him for it because I was listening to his album on repeat for the eight-hundredth (?) time when I spent $417 on VIP floor tickets for his Chicago show in October (even though I have to be at the airport the next morning at 5 am). And you know what? I had no shame.

In all fairness, that's not a bad price to pay for what the package comes with and for a performer with an incredible stage presence. He could treat us like Frank Ocean treated his audience during his Coachella set in 2023, and I would still love him all the same - but of course, I hope he doesn't, so here are a few of my (I think perfectly reasonable) expectations.

no.1 Teasers

On April 23rd, Gambino teased a song seemingly called "Say Less" in collaboration with Ye and a song called "Warlords" with Kid Cudi. He played the former on an episode of his Gilga Radio show and the latter on an Instagram live. The live show only seemed to have an average of 2,000 to 3,200 viewers, and I doubt many were bothered to listen to the radio show after the fact. Even if he doesn't perform either of these songs, I think he could play them before the show starts.

no.2 Opening Song

I love speculating, and I hate being wrong, so after someone makes a playlist of his setlist on Spotify, I better open it to find either "My Shine" or "Sunrise" at the top. I don't know what kind of songs he will be performing since this is his last tour, how long the show will be, or if he will focus mainly on Bando Stone (probable). The reason I'd like him to lead with either of these songs is solely because he mentions himself within the first couple of lines. It depends on the vibe he wants the show to have and how he structures the show - if he wants to open fast and loud, "Sunrise" would be phenomenal. If he wants something a little gentler, "My Shine" would be perfect.

no.3 This is just Me Being Picky

I would like to say I only have a few songs I want him to perform, but that's a lie. I don't have much else to say, so here's my list - consider these my recommendations too!