PHOTO: Lil` Kim, Small Crowd, Small Fire

Controversial US hip-hop artist Lil` Kim promised to set Zagreb on fire. There was no fire, but we did warm up.

ZAGREB, CROATIA – Rebellious crowd at Zagreb`s Aquarius club could not just be persuaded to come closer to the stage. Young rapper Ayla from Dubrava knew this best, who made an effort, but did not leave anyone impressed. But, even hard work counts: we would not want to discourage anyone. We recommend that Ayla omitted notes of turbo folk from her music, if she can.

Not only was the crowd rebellious, but it was small. Mostly young and youthful guests managed to create a somewhat convincing illusion of a full club for Lil` Kim`s performance. The singer appeared on stage a bit after midnight, bursting with energy and held a 50-minute performance, during which even those who wandered to the show, were entertained.

Lady Marmalade

Judging by the reactions of the crowd, Kim lined one hit after another. But, what surprised us most was her accessibility and communication with the crowd. One of the guests even ended up on stage and got a hug from the singer.

At one point, Kim announced her transformation from Queen Bee to Queen Bitch – without any explanations, but perhaps we needn`t dig deep, after all, Kim is the meanest bitch of rap, as her back-up vocalist would say, a woman who went to prison, and was not broken.

Notorious Kim

Speaking of notorious artists, Kim sang `Nig Poppa` for Notorious B.I.G., a man who significantly marked her private and professional life. Yes, this is that song from `Hardball` with Keanu Reeves.

When the show ended, we know that apart being rebellious and youthful, the crowd was realistic. Nobody tried too hard to invite Kim back on stage; we suppose they were aware that a 150 kuna ticket (approximately 21 euros) does not amount to a significant amount of time from a US music star.

After Zagreb, Kim will set out and conquer more Croatian cities. She will perform in Split on Tuesday December 16, while Zadar is next on Wednesday, December 17.

Take a look at the performance in the attached photo gallery: Lil` Kim, Small Crowd, Small Fire.