Two Independent New Yorkers Join Forces
Esteemed hip-hop artist Kota the Friend ends his No Rap on Sunday Tour with special guest Phearnone—a violinist, DJ, MC, and producer. These New Yorkers take the stage together in Boston, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and finish up in Brooklyn’s Music Hall of Williamsburg on October 16, which also marks Kota’s birthday celebration.
No Rap on Sunday Shows Featuring Phearnone
- October 3 – Boston, MA – Paradise Rock Club
- October 4 – Washington, D.C. – Howard Theatre
- October 8 – Philadelphia, PA – City Winery
- October 16 – Brooklyn, NY – Music Hall of Williamsburg (Finale & Kota’s Birthday Bash)
To get your tickets, visit KotaTheFriend.com/Tour
The Return of a Musical Partnership
Kota and Phearnone have a history of creative synergy, having previously played together at TEDx Portland, where they delivered a groundbreaking mix of violin and hip-hop. Phearnone also played a role on Once In A Blue Moon, Kota’s collaboration with producer Statik Selektah.
About their reunion, Phearnone remarked, “It’s always a privilege collaborating with an artist who matches your energy. We’ve made music both in-studio for Once In A Blue Moon and live on stage, so I’m sure we’ll deliver a memorable experience for these final tour dates.”
He continued, “Kota and I share roots as New Yorkers and as independent creatives. I’m inspired by how he’s proven independent success is possible—making impactful music, branching into new ventures, and developing a loyal fan base. Each collaboration shows me how Kota balances business savvy with artistic authenticity.”
Phearnone’s Genre-Spanning Journey
Born Shayshahn MacPherson in The Bronx, Phearnone boasts a diverse career as a classically trained violinist whose influences include Classical, Jazz, Hip Hop, Reggae, House, West African music, and R&B.
Phearnone’s highlights: performing at Carnegie Hall at 12, touring the world with Wu-Tang Clan’s The Final Chamber, and playing with icons like Stevie Wonder, Roy Ayers, Erykah Badu, GZA, Lettuce, and Big Daddy Kane. He’s been spotlighted by The Washington Times and was awarded an Emmy for his string composition on Vote.
Brooklyn Tour Finale Approaches
Kota expressed: “Phearnone is uniquely gifted, moving seamlessly through genres and always bringing his style back to hip-hop. Having him with me as the tour finishes makes this run even more meaningful.”
“From TEDx Portland to recording Once In A Blue Moon, our connection extends beyond music. Ending in Brooklyn, especially on my birthday, really feels symbolic,” Kota continued. “Phearnone’s violin resonates deeply—it’s energetic, soulful, and unlike anything else. I can’t wait for everyone to witness that on stage.”
After visiting 16 cities already, the No Rap on Sunday Tour ends with high-energy nights in Boston, D.C., Philadelphia, and Brooklyn, celebrating artistry and hometown roots.
Reserve your tickets for these final dates at KotaTheFriend.com/Tour
Leave a Reply