Lil’ Kim is extending her “Hard Core Symphony” concert event after the first show sold out in four days, adding a second night at Brooklyn’s Kings Theatre.
The Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum rapper will perform Nov. 18 and Nov. 19 alongside Thee Phantom & The Illharmonic Orchestra, an all-Black orchestral ensemble known for blending hip-hop and R&B with live instrumentation.
The concerts will celebrate Lil’ Kim’s landmark 1996 debut album, “Hard Core,” with orchestral reinterpretations of songs from the project and other fan favorites. The album, executive produced by The Notorious B.I.G., helped establish the Brooklyn native as one of hip-hop’s most distinctive artists, with provocative lyrics, bold fashion, and an unapologetic style that influenced generations of female rappers.
Originally announced as a one-night-only performance, “Hard Core Symphony” expanded following strong ticket demand.
The shows are expected to include symphonic arrangements of songs including “Big Momma Thang,” “Crush on You,” “No Time,” and “Not Tonight (Ladies Night Remix).” Organizers say the performances will pair Lil’ Kim’s signature delivery and stage presence with the orchestra’s fusion of classical instrumentation, hip-hop, and R&B.
Thee Phantom & The Illharmonic Orchestra has built its reputation around presenting hip-hop through a symphonic framework, combining an emcee, orchestral musicians, and contemporary rhythm sections.
The Brooklyn concerts also mark a hometown celebration for Lil’ Kim, whose career began as a member of Junior M.A.F.I.A. before she emerged as a solo star with “Hard Core.”
Attendees are being encouraged to wear formal black-tie attire, reflecting what organizers describe as an elevated celebration of hip-hop history and royalty.
GPK Entertainment is producing the two-night engagement.
Tickets for the newly added “Hard Core Symphony” performance are now on sale.
