Rick Ross and the Symphony: A Night of Elegance & Hip-Hop

“We ATL, right?” was the call to arms from rapper and entrepreneur Rick Ross, energizing the crowd gathered to see him do what he does best—get the people going. 

Atlanta was dressed to the nines on Sunday, Dec. 29, as Ross returned to the Atlanta Symphony Hall for “Rick Ross: A Holiday Affair,” a one-of-a-kind orchestral experience. Presented by Opus World Entertainment, the event blended hip-hop’s energy with the refinement of classical music performed by The Atlanta Pop Orchestra, showcasing Rick Ross’s musical catalog. 

Celebrating the rich hip-hop history that Atlanta has come to be known by, Ross took to the stage alongside the Atlanta Pops Orchestra in an emerald green tuxedo and black mink fur coat with shades and cane in hand against the backdrop of the song “Everyday Hustle” battling against the roaring of an excited crowd.

Ross’s setlist included some of his greatest hits, such as “B.M.F. (Blowin’ Money Fast)” and “Diced Pineapples.” Attendees took to their feet to rock out with Ross and were treated to a special surprise appearance by Cee-Lo Green on “Tears of Joy”, performed for the first time together, Ross stated.

The full setlist performed by Ross was as follows (in order):

Act One:

• Everyday Hustle

• Fuckwithmeyouknowigotit

• I’m Not a Star

• Hard in the Paint

• 9 Piece

• All I Do Is Win

• I’m On One

• Magnificent

• Diced Pineapples

• Hustlin’

Act Two:

• B.M.F. (Blowin’ Money Fast)

• MC Hammer

• Tears of Joy

• I Can Make Cocaine

• Here I Am

• Devil in a New Dress

• Pop That

• Rich Forever

• Type of N**A

DJ Big X ATL, an Atlanta DJ and president of Coalition DJs, captured the essence of Atlanta that night, “Man, it’s always amazing to see us out here looking elegant and fashionable. What Ross has done over the years, from the trap days of ‘Hustlin’” to now collaborating with orchestras, shows incredible elevation. It’s inspiring for artists to see this and set their goals high. If I were an artist, I’d look at what Ross is doing and aim to build a catalog that could one day bring me to this stage.”

The event was also a full-circle moment for Big X ATL, who reflected on the significance of Ross’s contributions to the Coalition DJs. “He’s been like family, rocking with us at anniversaries, collaborating on projects, and supporting our artists. He’s showcasing that energy tonight, setting the vibe for everyone here.”

Nuface, a culture-preserver documenting hip-hop’s evolution, emphasized the event’s significance in showcasing Atlanta’s pivotal role in the genre’s growth—from the era of Freaknik to the rise of crunk, trap, and now orchestral collaborations. Nuface states that Atlanta has always been at the forefront of innovation, “It warms my heart to see somebody as successful still be out and be approachable to the people and give back opportunities and shows like that,” he said. “You know, it’s not where nobody can get in. Tickets are available to the whole city, and it’s not in Miami. This is Atlanta”.

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