An Out of This World Experience: Missy Elliott’s First Headline Tour stops in Hampton Roads.

By: London Franklin

After more than 30 years in the music industry, 2024 marks the incredible milestone of Missy Elliott’s first headline tour. As a rapper, singer, songwriter, producer, four-time Grammy winner, and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee, Missy has left an indelible mark on music history. Witnessing her perform her greatest hits in front of our hometown crowd was nothing short of magical. On August 2, 2024, a day proclaimed “Out of this World Tour” day by Hampton Mayor Donnie Tuck, Missy Elliott, along with opening acts Ciara and Busta Rhymes, delivered nostalgic, riveting, and brilliant performances to a sold-out crowd.

A Night of Unforgettable Performances

Now I’ll be honest, I was a bit late to the show, parking in what felt like the last space in the lot. As I entered, Ciara was already lighting up the stage, adorned in a striking red street-style outfit and matching crown, complementing her dancers perfectly. The crowd was on their feet, screaming along to "Body Party." Ciara's stage presence was electrifying! With intense choreography and solid vocals, she kept the energy high as she delivered hit after hit, from “Goodies” to “So What.” She ended her set with the empowering “Level-Up” before paying homage to her “Big Sister” Missy and leaving the stage to thunderous applause.

Busta Rhymes was up next, and true to form, he brought his best friend and stage-mate Spliff Star. Busta made a dramatic entrance, rising from the floor in all black, as "What It Is" played. ?He raised his hand and the music immediately stopped. After a brief silence and building anticipation, "Ante Up" came through the speakers, sending the crowd into a frenzy. They performed hits like "Touch It," "Make it Clap," and "What’s It Gonna Be," Busta and Spliff's dynamic interaction and charisma had us all engaged from start to finish and even laughing between songs. Busta emphasized his old-school approach to performing, relying on sheer talent and presence rather than modern special effects. He said all he needs to rock the crowd, is a “cool little video and a pretty sexy outfit” and that Spliff Star, his DJ and himself “Are the Special Effects.” He closed his set with “Pass the Courvoisier II,” while promising to return to the 757 and spraying the front row with champagne to the crowd's delight.

During the intermission, I made a quick trip to the merch stand—because no concert experience is complete without a souvenir. I returned to my seat just in time for the main event.

Missy Elliott Takes Us Out of This World

Missy Elliott, Portsmouth’s own, made her grand entrance in a sparkling space suit, kicking off her set with “Throw it Back,” “Cool Off,” and “We Run This.” The energy was palpable as she took us way back with classics like “Sock It 2 Me” and “The Rain” from her debut album Supa Dupa Fly. The nostalgia peaked when she performed “She’s a B” in modern version of her bubble suit. Missy and her dancers utilized every inch of the stage, with stunning visuals and elevated platforms over the fan’s heads enhancing the experience. She even ventured into the crowd, connecting with fans up close. Unfortunately, she didn’t come past my seat.

Missy proudly shouted out Portsmouth and Virginia, chanting “two up, two down” and recognizing her dancers, many on their first tour. Virginia House of Delegates Speaker Don Scott and Hampton Mayor Donnie Tuck then, honored her. They presented her with an award declaring August 2, 2024, “Out of this World Tour” day. She also received a Congressional Certificate of Community Service from Bobby Scott for her dedication to giving back to the community. His clever remark, “Missy, thank you for all that you do. It would be a crime, a Misdemeanor, not to recognize you,” brought a smile to everyone’s face.

The night featured classic imagery, iconic outfits, and a surprise appearance by long-time collaborator and Virginia native Timbaland. Missy shared special moments on stage with Tim, Busta, and Ciara, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I found myself standing at my seat yearning for more but Frankie Beverly’s music soon filled the airwaves and y’all know what that means!

Thank you Refinery29 and Live Nation Entertainment

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