MOTORCO & ART OF COOL PRESENT BILAL, Monday, November 14, 2016 at 8:00 pm, Durham, NC. A classically trained vocal veteran, Bilal released his debut album 1st Born Second in 2001, which boasted the popular single “Soul Sista.” The follow-up, Love for Sale (2006), was shelved but leaked entirely online yet was well received to fans and music critics and has become an underground classic. In the following years, Bilal has collaborated and performed with some of the industry’s most prominent artists including, Beyonce (Fighting Temptations), Common (Like Water for Chocolate, Electric Circus, Be, Finding Forever), Jay-Z (American Gangster), Erykah Badu (New Amerykah Part One, New Amerykah Part Two), Robert Glasper (All Matter), Boney James (Better With Time), Musiq (Soulstar) and The Roots among others. He also covered Radiohead’s “High & Dry” for the 2006 Radiohead tribute, Exit Music: Songs With Radio Heads. Bilal also appears in Dave Chappelle’s Block Party. This one night only performance goes down at the Motorco, 723 Rigsbee Avenue, Durham, NC 27701. Get tickets here – http://www.motorcomusic.com/event/1343623-bilal-durham/
Flypoet
Flypoet – Los Angeles ‘s Hottest Spoken Word, music and art showcase – Next Show November 4, 2016 – Visit http://www.flypoet.com/next-show.php
POETRY VS. HIP-HOP – Friday, July 15, Durham
POETRY VS. HIP-HOP
DURHAM NC EDITION. CHOOSE A SIDE! FRI, JULY 15, 2016, DOORS: 9:00 PM / SHOW: 9:00 PM, THE PINHOOK DURHAM, NC. Learn more now.
Stalley Live!
Feature Event: Underground Sound 2015
Sunday, May 3, 2015 at 7:00 PM. Brooklyn, NY.
Push It Pull It
FEATURE ARTIST VIDEO “Push It Pull It” by Hatty Keane (U.K.)
BGM- Despite only being 20 years of age, U.K.’s Hatty Keane has more experience than most, completing over 500 shows since signing to BGM at the age of 16. This incredible work ethic has seen her support heavyweight artists such as Rudimental, Ellie Goulding, Olly Murs, Ed Sheeran,Wretch 32, JLS (19 Date Arena Tour) and Wiley. Hatty’s sound is the product of talent and hard work, and her determination has led her to collaborate with some topline writers and producers including Luigi ‘LUGO’ Gonzalez (Janet Jackson), Luney Tunez (Rihanna), Si Hulbert (One Direction) andHank Hughes (Naughty Boy, Emili Sande), shaping her sound to guarantee club night mayhem.
Watch more videos at www.hattyofficial.com or Like www.facebook.com/hattykeanemusic .
Nneka Hits U.S.!
Soul Singer Nneka Announces Summer 2015 Tour Dates
New LP Arriving May 26th
Soul singer-songwriter Nneka will be heading out on a North American tour this summer. The upcoming trek will kick off on June 2nd in Seattle, WA, and make stops in big cities like Oakland, L.A., Chicago, Toronto, and Philly, before wrapping June 23rd in New York.
The new tour will support Nneka’s forthcoming album, My Fairy Tales, due out May 26th via Bushqueen Music. The German/Nigerian songstress recorded the LP in France, Denmark, and Nigeria while living in Paris. Like her previous offerings, including 2011’s ‘Soul Is Heavy,’ Nneka will continue to tackle personal and political issues.
“My Fairy Tales is a concept album, exploring the lives of Africans in the diaspora and the struggles they face,” she explained. “How we cope hustling in ‘another man’s land,’ but also the aspects of endurance, perseverance and gratitude.”
Nneka Tour Dates (Tickets for select shows are on sale now):
- June 2 – Seattle, WA at Nectar
- June 4 – Oakland, CA at The New Parish
- June 5 – Oakland, CA at The New Parish
- June 7 – Los Angeles, CA at The Troubadour
- June 10 – Denver, CO at Lost Lake
- June 13 – St. Louis, MO at Duck Room
- June 14 – Chicago, IL at Lincoln Hall
- June 16 – Toronto, ON at Tattoo
- June 19 – Boston, MA at TT The Bear’s
- June 20 – Philadelphia, PA at Milkboy
- June 21 – Washington, DC at Jammin Java
- June 23 – New York, NY at TBD
More dates to follow..
Story taken from http://singersroom.com/content/2015-04-20/Soul-Singer-Nneka-Announces-Summer-2015-Tour-Dates-New-LP-Arriving-May-26th/,
Visit http://nnekaworld.com
or https://www.facebook.com/NnekaWorld
Ode to Ignorance
Feature Artist Video: Remi’s “Ode to Ignorance”
Photo: Callum Preston
Nigerian-Australian rapper Remi – “This track is about mine and my family’s personal experience growing up and living mixed race in Australia. It’s important for people to know that this is not targeted at any one person or any one race, it’s directed at ignorance. My hope is that it raises some awareness and starts/continues meaningful conversation about the racial climate in this country and what we can do to bring better equality.”
Read the complete interview with Remi in OKAYAFRICA or visit https://www.facebook.com/RemiKolawoleMusic
Disability with Inspiration
Poetry TRIBE: Disability with Inspiration
by Keyana Sullivan
Helen Keller, words can not explain the inspiration you’ve given, Life without sight, words without sound, the love you gave, success you found
Author, political activist, lecturer, first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree, Your disability made you a powerful woman, and that is exactly how I want to be
Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd president of the United States, natural born leader, You contracted an illness that left you paralyzed from the waist down , But you refused to accept your paralysis and taught yourself to walk, strength you found, You fought through your illness by developing your own technique, and that is exactly how I want to be
Christopher Reeve, actor, director, producer, writer, our beloved Superman, An equestrian competition left you paralyzed, and your life immediately changed, Even though you suffered a great deal of pain you did not give up, prosperity you still gained The Christopher Reeve Foundation you started, to help others that are in the same position as you continued your career while helping others that is exactly what I want to do
Beethoven, one of our most famous and influential composers of classical music, During your late 20’s, your hearing began to deteriorate, later leaving you completely deaf, You considered giving up with thoughts of suicide, your love for music, to loose it, you would have nothing left, but you did not give up, you continued to write music, and at the end of the premiere of your Ninth Symphony, you turned around to see the, tumultuous applause, hearing nothing, you wept that very moment, achievement you gained, and I hope one day I can experience the same
Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder, two of our most creative musical figures, Blindness is considered a disability, but you guys did not let that stop you from doing what you love, you have to walk by faith, and not by sight, you taught yourself to be strong, and that I like, Your talent have touched so many people, in many different ways, I hope my talent will do the same one day.
Keyana Sullivan is 24 years old. She holds a BA in psychology and lives in Cleveland, Ohio. She has a neuromuscular disease called Pompe disease and is wheelchair bound, but before anything else, she is a writer. Her book, The Cure to No Cure, is in publication. Follow her on Twitter!
Reviving Soul Around the Globe!
J’DA PRYNCE- Reviving Soul Music Around the Globe!
Unleash your wild side with J’da Prynce Music!
Dance your burdens away and sing along to the captivating and rhythmic melodies of J’Da Prynce, The Entertainment Tailor. Born Jeremy Jerrod Johnson in Newark, New Jersey, J’Da comes from a talented family of vocalists, musicians and entertainers. Raised in South and North Carolina, J’Da was brought up in a very religious environment and began singing gospel music in church at the age of six. As a teen, J’Da was heavily influenced by the high energy performances of legendary greats like Sam Cooke, James Brown, Michael Jackson and Prince. He started writing his own songs and studying dance at age 13. After graduating from South Carolina State University, J’Da went on to teach English and Social Studies at Durham Public Schools and Guilford County Schools in North Carolina to students grades 6-12. In his spare time, J’Da performed at venues, nightclubs and open mics in Durham and surrounding areas and quickly became a local favorite. J’Da’s passion to create his own brand of entertainment could not be limited to part-time devotion, so he left the education world to pursue music full-time and moved to Greensboro, North Carolina, a city with a deep history of cultivating soul music.
While living in Greensboro, J’Da performed regularly with popular local artists, including hip hop artist Mr. Rozzi, R&B singer Vanessa Ferguson, The SolcetFre Project, and The Soul Brothers Band-The Ultimate James Brown Tribute Band, which performed at The House of Blues in New Orleans, LA. “Open-The RELEASE” J’Da debut studio album, was released in 2008 and received many accolades thanks in part to the hit single, “Where” a favorite among romantics everywhere. This same year, J’Da also gained additional experience at acting as an extra on the film, “Blood Done Sign My Name” which starred Nate Parker and Lela Rochon. Additionally, J’Da acquired several roles in stage plays.
In 2009, J’Da Prynce relocated to Atlanta, Georgia and joined Az-Izz, a popular Corporate Events band based in Atlanta, which performed throughout much of the southeastern Unites States, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee and Louisiana. In 2011, J’Da started his own band, The J’Da Prynce Movement, a popular R&B group based in Atlanta. They were selected to perform at the Chozen Awards (2011) and won the Delta Battle of the Bands Contest (2012).
J’DA HEATS UP ASIA!
Currently, J’Da Prynce is bringing his hypnotic, high energy, show stopping performances to stages of five star nightclubs all across Asia. J’Da serves as the lead singer of the band “Heat” which performed at the Spasso Club, voted best Live Entertainment Venue in Bangkok, Thailand. Additionally, he has performed in Singapore, Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Beijing, China, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E, Seoul, South Korea and presently, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. J’Da Prynce’s soulful music has taken him all over the world and he is ready to share it with you! The budding STAR is working on his second studio album, Heart Vs. Head, which is scheduled to be released in Summer 2015. Chart-topping among the masses, J’Da Prynce is especially popular with the grown-up, sexy and classy crowd; ages 25 to 45 and the LGBT community! “I’m super excited to be back in the studio and looking forward to sharing where I am presently in my journey with my fellow prynces and pryncesses,” says J’da. This is the name by which he affectionally addresses his fans. Watch for his return to the states and The Prynce Tours America “Tour” coming soon to a venue near you. Visit http://jdaprynce.com.Contact: info@jdaprynce.com for more information.
FLY POET
Feature Event: FLY POET Spoken Word and Music Showcase
This FRIDAY November 7th This FRIDAY
@ three minutes after 8pm…
WARNING: THIS IS NOT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD OPEN MIC!
For more than 12 years The Flypoet Spoken Word & Music Showcase has been widely regarded as one of the tightest shows of it’s kind in the world. Experience world class poets from all over the country as they bring their “A” game in a tightly produced show laced with high energy live music and live interpretive performance painting. Enjoy great vibes with an amazing audience, have a cocktail, a bite to eat and… PREPARE TO BE SEVERELY ENTERTAINED!
*Doors @ 7 – $5 “martini of the month” special until 7:30 – $1 tacos all night!
* *
Laila Nur
Feature Artist Video: Laila Nur
https://youtu.be/Aw7lAtIHmJs
Photo by Jamison Bethea
New York native Laila Nur is a self-taught singer, songwriter and guitarist. Currently residing in Greensboro, North Carolina, this talented artist keeps her heart in the youth movement but doesn’t categorize her music as being limited to any era. Playing hints of folk, funk, rock, pop, and blues, she simply says, “I’m the music in my head”. Laila started playing guitar just recently in September 2009 and is now well known for making up chords and catchy songs about life, love, and politics that gather crowds from every walk of life. Find out more at http://lailanurmusic.com.
Amiri Baraka Celebration
Feature Event: Amiri Baraka Celebration, October 26
AMIRI BARAKA
POET / PLAYWRIGHT / AUTHOR / ACTIVIST
Baraka was born Everett LeRoi Jones in 1934 in Newark, NJ. After leaving Howard University and the Air Force, he moved to the Lower East Side of Manhattan in 1957 and co-edited the avant-garde literary magazine Yugen and founded Totem Press, which first published works by Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac, and others. His reputation as a playwright was established with the production of Dutchman at the Cherry Lane Theatre in New York on March 24, 1964. The controversial play subsequently won an Obie Award (for “Best off-Broadway play”) and was made into a film. (The play was revived by the Cherry Lane Theatre in January 2007 and has been reproduced around the world).
In 1965, Jones moved to Harlem, where he founded the Black Arts Repertory Theatre/School. The BARTS lasted only one year but had a lasting influence on the direction of Afro American Arts. He and his wife, Amina Baraka, edited The Music (Meditations of Jazz & Blues (Morrow) Confirmation: An Anthology of African-American Women, which won an American Book Award from the Before Columbus Foundation. The Autobiography of LeRoi Jones/Amiri Baraka was published in 1984. Other noted publications are Y’s/Why’s/Wise (3rd World 1992) Funk Lore (Littoral 1993), Eulogies (Marsilio, 94), Transbluesency, (Marsilio 1996), Somebody Blew Up America & Other Poems (Nehesi 2002).
Amiri Baraka’s numerous literary honors include fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts, the PEN/Faulkner Award, the Rockefeller Foundation Award for Drama, the Langston Hughes Award from The City College of New York, and a lifetime achievement award from the Before Columbus Foundation. In 1994, he retired as Professor of Africana Studies at the State University of New York in Stony Brook. He was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters in 1995. In 2002, Baraka was named Poet Laureate of New Jersey and Newark Public Schools. His book of short stories, Tales of the Out & The Gone (Akashic Books) was published in late 2007. Home, his book of social essays, was re-released by Akashic Books in early 2009. Digging: The Afro American Soul of Music (Univ. of California) was also released in 2009. Read More now. Visit http://www.celestebateman.com.
Feature Artist: DMV’s Layla Khepri
Layla Khepri goes in on the Childish Gambino Track “Bonfire”. Visit Layla Khepri at https://www.facebook.com/layla.khepri.1
Brown-Skinned Showgirls
JIG SHOW, A new film by TRIBES, helps preserve an American entertainment legacy
TRIBES Entertainment News- Oct. 10, 2014 – DURHAM, N.C. — The last remaining of the great entertainers from one of America’s most successful traveling shows are finally telling their stories in a new documentary by TRIBES Entertainment Films titled, JIG SHOW | Leon Claxton’s Harlem in Havana.
A compelling historical document produced and directed by Leslie Cunningham, the film delves into the legend and truth behind top road show producer Leon Claxton’s epic black and Cuban stage revue, Harlem in Havana– a so-called ‘colored jig show’ that helped launch the careers of entertainment heavyweights Chuck Berry, Rufus Thomas, Redd Foxx, Fontella Bass and Merceditas Valdes. One of the leading attractions on the world’s largest carnival midway in the 1930‘s, 40s, 50s and 60s, Harlem in Havana had profound impact on American entertainment and popular culture in ways that still exist today.
Leslie Cunningham
Part of a larger work known as the Harlem in Havana Project, Leslie Cunningham (creator of TRIBES Magazine and Leon Claxton’s granddaughter) has been working to archive this explosive chapter in American entertainment through a diversity of mediums including the film, a photography book and traveling photography exhibit and harleminhavana.com, the project’s official website.
“The carnival stage is often overlooked when recalling the history of black and latin entertainers and their impact on American popular culture,” says Leslie Cunningham. “This is a never-before-told story of a little-known legacy that will enrich the whole of our cultural knowledge…We are engaged in the necessary work of cultural preservation. If we don’t talk to these entertainers now and mediate the telling of this story, the history will die with their memories and their generation.”
Slated for release in late 2015, JIG SHOW is currently in the early stages of production as Cunningham works to collect stories from the last of the living performers to grace her grandfather’s stage. Interviews are being conducted with subjects across the American South and West focusing on Tampa, Knoxville, Nashville, and Memphis followed shortly by Western Canada as the search for production funding sources is underway. You can help TRIBES preserve American entertainment history- Donate to the documentary film project at jigshow.com or harleminhavana.com.
Phone: 919.218.8620
A3C 2nd Annual Best Block Party Ever! October 12. Atlanta.
A3C & Okayplayer’s 2nd Annual
Best Block Party Ever!
A The Best Block Party Ever is a FREE, all ages, block party on Sunday, Oct 12th that will close out the 10th Annual A3C Festival.
The annual block party invites A3C attendees and the city of Atlanta to the Old Fourth Ward district to enjoy art, food, drinks, games and some of Hip-Hop’s most iconic artists and DJs.
Featuring Performances by…
Black Thought & J.Period
Talbi Kweli & Friends
Prince Paul
Skyzoo and Torae
Baked Life
Tayyib Ali
Erk Tha Jerk
Dillon
Riders Against The Storm
The Bodega Brovas
with special guests and surprise artists
Sunday, October 12th
2:00pm – 9:00pm
@ A3C Main Stage in Old 4th Ward
447 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
FREE with RSVP or A3C Badge
Hosea Feed the Hungry & Homeless will be collecting lightly worn clothing, sneakers or canned goods. PLEASE Donate generously #A3Caction.
Feature Event: FLYPOET Spoken Word & Music Showcase – 10.3.14
FRIDAY October 3, 2014. @ three minutes after 8pm… WARNING: THIS IS NOT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD OPEN MIC! For more than 12 years The Flypoet Spoken Word & Music Showcase has been widely regarded as one of the tightest shows of it’s kind in the world. Experience world class poets from all over the country as they bring their “A” game in a tightly produced show laced with high energy live music and live interpretive performance painting. Enjoy great vibes with an amazing audience, have a cocktail, a bite to eat and…PREPARE TO BE SEVERELY ENTERTAINED! *$5 martini specials until 7:30 (doors at 7) $1 tacos all night! VISIT FLYPOET.COM.
Nas: Time is Illmatic at A3C
Nas: Time is Illmatic at A3C
A3C is proud to present a screening of the documentary Nas: Time is Illmatic followed by a Q & A with the filmmakers. The film covers the making of Nas’ 1994 album Illmatic, often hailed as the greatest hip-hop album of all times, and the timeless themes that have kept both the album and Nas relevant for so many years.
After the film screening, we’ll be joined by director One9, writer Erik Parker, and producer Martha Diaz for a discussion about the making of the film, the inspirations behind it, and on the scope and influence of Nas’ Illmatic.
Friday, Oct 10th at 3:00pm #A3Cfilm. LEARN MORE NOW.
Feature Event: BIG FREEDIA RETURNS TO DURHAM
BIG FREEDIA AT THE PINHOOK WED, OCTOBER 1, 2014 – DOORS: 10:15 PM / SHOW: 10:30 PM
WED, OCTOBER 1, 2014 – DOORS: 10:15 PM / SHOW: 10:30 PM
Big Freedia is an accomplished “Bounce” Rapper who lives in New Orleans and performs six or more times a week in various venues throughout the city. Bounce is an original urban music rising up from the intimate and fun-loving nature of the housing projects which dominate the city’s street culture.
“Sissy Bounce” is the informal name for a derivative of Bounce that has risen to prominence in recent years and features explicitly gay and cross-dressing musicians and themes. Big Freedia is at the forefront of this movement and has had several New Orleans hit singles such as “Gin in My System” and “Azz Everywhere!” from her albums “An Ha, Oh Yeah” (1999) and “Queen Diva” (2003). Freedia began her musical career almost 15 years ago at the Walter L. Cohen High School in New Orleans, where she was enlisted as choir director from her Sophomore to Senior years. She sees her performance as a Bounce artist as an extension of this work, often interacting in a call and response/teacher and student, fashion with her audiences. She recently developed a musical about her life entitled “Catch That Beat” with producer Lucky Johnson.
The sold out first run of “Catch That Beat” featured cameo appearances by a who’s who of New Orleans Bounce artists alongside the story of Freedia’s upbringing in New Orleans 3rd Ward. She performs in various venues (often decorated by her own event production business) and has recently begun traveling outside the city with the encouragement and support of the New Orleans Airlift. Big Freedia has always acted as mentor for many younger artists, is currently recording her third record and recently returned from a stellar 6 show run in New York City, performing sold out shows with Spank Rock, Ninjasonik and many others at venues such as Santos Party House, Glasslands, and Sway. This year Freedia will be returning to South By Southwest, performing at multiple events including a retrospective Bounce Showcase and a historic second performance at Gay Bi Gay Gay after a short tour of the west coast with New Orleans collaborators Galactic, whom she performed with on the critically-acclaimed 2010 album “Ya-Ka-May”. Visit http://www.thepinhook.com/event/671217-big-freedia-durham/.
Feature Event: FLYPOET Spoken Word Showcase_October 3rd!
FRIDAY October 3rd FRIDAY @ three minutes after 8pm…
WARNING: THIS IS NOT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD OPEN MIC! For more than 12 years The Flypoet Spoken Word & Music Showcase has been widely regarded as one of the tightest shows of it’s kind in the world. Experience world class poets from all over the country as they bring their “A” game in a tightly produced show laced with high energy live music and live interpretive performance painting. Enjoy great vibes with an amazing audience, have a cocktail, a bite to eat and…PREPARE TO BE SEVERELY ENTERTAINED!
*$5 martini specials until 7:30 (doors at 7) $1 tacos all night!
Visit FLYPOET.COM
2014 A3C Festival Line-Up
2014 A3C Festival Line-Up
We are only 3 weeks out from the 2014 A3C Festival in Atlanta, October 8-12. Over the past 9 years more than 2,500 MCs and DJs have blessed hip-hop’s biggest stage. Legends like The Juice Crew have reunited and stars like J.Cole have been born. So for our 10th Anniversary you know we had to go all out and to bring y’all the biggest and best A3C Festival ever!
2014 featured Artists, DJs & Producers include…
Black Thought, 2 Chainz, The LOX,B.o.B, Slaughterhouse, Scarface, Mystikal & Juvenile, Twista, Bun B, Rocko, Buckshot, Talib Kweli, Casey Veggies, Ca$h Out, Rockie Fresh, !MursDay!, Smif N Wessun,Makonnen, Jarren Benton, Cyhi The Prynce, Kevin Gates, Mannie Fresh, Lil Bibby, Project Pat, Que, 9th Wonder & Rapsody, Jermaine Dupri, Trae tha Truth, Masta Ace, Kool Keith, Orgainized Noize, Prince Paul, Maino, Kid Capri, Pastor Troy, Cormega, Sonny Digital, Young Dro, OG Maco, Elzhi, Dyme-A-Duzin, Sol Messiah, Kap G, Robb Bank$, Nappy Roots w/ more artists added daily. Learn more now!
Scarface headlines A3C’s Redbull Sound Select Showcase
TONIGHT: A Special Screening of the documentary film, M.I., A Different Kind of Girl – Durham, NC
You’re invited to a free film screening of M.I., A Different Kind of Girl, a part of the GenderReel Film Festival at NCCU on Friday, September 19, 2014 at 6:00pm.
Hip Hop’s Biggest Stage, A3C – October 8-12 – ATL, GA
Buy A3C Passes
A3C [All 3 Coasts] Festival is the preeminent hip-hop festival in the US. A3C has grown from a local showcase to an amazing cultural experience and is celebrating 10 years in the game!
October 8-12 – ATL, GA – Today, A3C is one of the largest hip-hop events in the world with performances from well over 500 artists, including: legends, rising stars, trendsetters, up-and-comers and aspiring talent from across the world. The 5 day festival encompasses all aspects of hip-hop culture: music, art, film, style, education and more. During the day attendees are able to connect with – and learn from – tastemakers, icons, organizations, brands and industry leaders, while the evenings and nights are filled with special events, parties and performances from some of the biggest and best hip-hop artists in the world. Read more now!
Feature Artist: St. Louis rapper Tef Poe
Coming Outta Missouri- “The police shoot back and you can not dispute that!”
Last week, Michael Brown- an unarmed black teenager- was shot and killed by a white police officer in the city of Ferguson, Missouri. Today the world is in shock! But, if you really want to know about the real challenges black people face everyday, in Ferguson and other predominantly black communities across America, listen to the music of local artists, like Tef Poe, who have been expressing his feelings about police shootings and racial injustices through his music for years! St. Louis rapper Tef Poe’s “Coming Outta Missouri” is riveting rap song that tells the story of black culture in Missouri from his perspective. The song was released in 2012. Tef Poe is a human rights activist working with Amnesty International. Check out more of Tef Poe’s music work at: http://www.tefpoe.com.
ST. LOUIS RAPPER TEF POE
Professor Toon performs tonight, 8.16.14. Motorco. Durham!
Durham rapper Toon combines intricate detail in lyricism with a sharp delivery. Playing shows anywhere from downtown city bars to Duke University theaters, he’s sidled up alongside several young hip-hop ascendants. In an area and a time where the pickings are slim for inventive new local rap, Toon has risen to the challenge to bring you what you need alongside Kooley High, King Mez, Lazarus and apromising new crop.
Originally born in Baltimore, MD., Toon had a rough start, was the witness to his mother’s abusive relationship and subsequent divorce. He soon moved to North Carolina with her, but the history he has accumulated seems to be the driving forces behind his relentless show schedule and forceful writing.
While attending the Durham School of the Arts, Toon met his current collaborator, The Real Laww. As with 2011’s The King’s Khrysis, which paired Raleigh rapper King Mez with producer Khrysis, the two have created a balance for one another, making them a duo worth beholding. On the single “Hulk Smash,” Toon picks out exactly what is wrong with the rap game today, spitting lines like, “Just because we can’t understand you doesn’t make you creative” and “There’s role models down the street but they’re scared to teach.” Galvanized by the past but driven toward the future, Toon unites a bold performance with a meaningful backstory. —James Hatfield. Visit professortoon.bandcamp.com.
DURM HIP HOP SUMMIT Saturday 8.16.14
Graffiti, B Boys, DJ’s- HECK Yes! In past years, Durham’s Hip Hop scene Is being revitalized, thanks in part to Durham’s very own Promo Duo/Rap artists-Professor Toon and The Real Laww. Previously marred by negative connotations,the triangle sceneis restoring the actual “art” of Hip Hop in the area. As of July 2012, Professor and Laww have come together to provide the community with what has been dubbed the DURM Hip Hop Summit, a one day music festival that blankets the city of Durham in high quality Hip Hop; to be experienced by all ages. Read More.
DURM HIP HOP SUMMIT hits 8.16.14
The wait is over! See who is playing where at this year’s DURM Hip Hop Summit. HIGHLY IMPORTANT!! The ONLY place to grab your wristbands or buy last min tickets will be at 618 Foster St, Durham, NC| Dear Hearts | Aug 15th & 16th!! Spread the word!! durmhiphopsummit.com.
FEATURE ARTIST: The Koolest
The Koolest – 1995 feat. Napoleon Da Legend (Official Video)
Aside from dominant college sports teams and the legendary John Coltrane, North Carolina boasts another cool thing – The Koolest. The duo, comprised of rappers Dan The Don and Dinero P, creates a freshly unique fusion of Hip-hop and R&B. Both attended Hillside High School in Durham, NC, never once interacting with one another. While Dinero P cultivated his love for music, learning to play numerous instruments namely, guitar, piano, and synthesizer; Dan The Don looked for a way out of a gang-affiliated lifestyle that almost cost him his life several times. His escape route was lit upon realizing he could rap — well. Upon graduating Living Arts College: School of Communication Arts, Dinero P came home to find his sister in a new relationship with a music-loving hip-hop addict who shared his first name, Daniel. They clicked, forming The Koolest. Dinero P infuses the rhythmic element of his birthplace; Brooklyn, NY and Dan The Don brings a southern energy, adding flare from his favorite West Coast and Midwest artists. The Koolest has shared the stage with big name acts like, Juicy J, Pac Div, Ace Hood, Johnny Polygon, Smoke DZA and just released their first LP, Nerds at the Kool Table in April of 2014. Visit https://twitter.com/WeAreTheKoolest
Article compliments of durmhiphopsummit.com.
Graffiti, B Boys, DJ’s – DURM HIP HOP SUMMIT
(DURHAM, NC) Graffiti, B Boys, DJ’s-‐ HECK Yes! In past years, Durham’s Hip Hop scene Is being revitalized, thanks in part to Durham’s very own Promo Duo/Rap artists-‐Professor Toon and The Real Laww. Previously marred by negative connotations, the triangle scene is restoring the actual “art” of Hip Hop in the area. As of July 2012, Professor and Laww have come together to provide the community with what has been dubbed the DURM Hip Hop Summit, a one day music festival that blankets the city of Durham in high quality Hip Hop; to be experienced by all ages.
Coming August 16, 2014, the DURM Hip Hop Summit truly is a major event, illustrating the true meaning of Hip Hop and educating its audience on the foundation of Hip Hop roots, as well as providing some high energy hip hop performances from national acts and up-‐coming young acts. The event showcases the five pillars of Hip Hop: beat boxing, break dancing, emceeing, deejaying and graffiti, with a mission to revive the Hip Hop scene in the Triangle area.
Brian Dawson and his son, the Kid DJ sensation, Chase Dawson will be hosting and DJing along with the NC Legend KAZE, at this years DURM HIP HOP SUMMIT!!!!
In 2012, the inaugural DURM Hip Hop Summit featured only five performers, two DJ’s, one graffiti artist and one host all at one venue. Area staples, The Beast and Joshua Gunn headlined year one’s event and even a monsoon of torrential downpour couldn’t keep the DURM HIP Hop Summit from pulling a sold-‐out packed house. 2014’s DURM Hip Hop Summit will include acts like Alex Wiley, Lord of the Fly, Professor Toon and Cesar Comanche, just to name a few, will be gracing these stages. This multiple venue event will be hosted by; K97.5’s own Brian Dawson, his son DJ Kid Sensation Chase Dawson and the NC legend KAZE. And of course we will be indulging your senses with Emcee Battles, Producer Battles, and Break Dancers to top it all off.
What’s in store for the future of the DURM Hip Hop Summit you ask? More, more and more! With hopes of inspiring growth by adding to the already sweet list of notable sponsors such as Brood Soda, The Stagger, ReverbNation, Runaway Clothing, Cardigan Records, Dear Hearts, Intrepid Life, MotorCo Music Hall and American Underground. The Summit aspires to be on the same playing field as some other music festivals the likes of A3C, Hopscotch, Moogsfest and even one day, Bonnaroo! The Summit plans to, year by year, keep adding more venues and even an outside performance with more national/international hip hop acts. This marks the turning point for Hip Hop in the Triangle. It’s Hip Hop and Art at its finest, connecting people from all walks of life.
Visit durmhiphopsummit. com.
Feature Event: Queen Sheba’s 7th Anniversary Show at Apache Cafe!
POETRY AND LIVE MUSIC OPEN MIC at Apache Cafe, Sunday, June 29th 2014!
DURM Hip Hop Summit Concert Series: April 18 featuring Young Dirt
Durham NC, Friday April 18th, Join NC hip-hop heads for the 3rd installment of the DURM Hip Hop Summit Concert Series. The Local Hip and Local Hops will have on tap Carolina Music Award winner Young Dirt. And the lyrical God himself Defacto Thezpian. Devines: 904 W Main St, Durham! Learn more now.
Painter and Musician, Isti Kaldor
Painter and Musician, Isti Kaldor adds his work to TRIBES Headquarters’ Permanent Collection 
Check out the artist we met last Saturday at Bean Traders Coffee in Southwest Durham. He very generously, gifted TRIBES Headquarters with a print. View some of his other works in person at The Carrack Modern Art Museum on Parrish St. in downtown Durham (thecarrack.org) or shake hands with the artist at Skewers (http://www.skewersbarandgrill.com/) on Wednesday night where Isti hosts an open-mic at 9 PM.
Gathering Honey: Stories of Black Southern Women Who Love Women
Gathering Honey: Stories of Black Southern Women Who Love Women Written and Directed by: E. Patrick Johnson
Date: February 28 and March 1, 2014; Location: UNC-Chapel Hill
The crowd rose to its feet after the show on Friday night to thank Writer and Director, E. Patrick Johnson (www.epatrickjohnson.com), for the gift of women’s voices in his new work, “Gathering Honey: Stories of Black Southern Women Who Love Women.” We were eager to congratulate him and offer critique in the post-show, audience feedback session (in place on a traditional Q&A, and a feature of the UNC Theater department’s “The Process Series” presenting new works in development). Gathering Honey had an exciting NC debut-in-progress on Friday night and the compelling work, a collection of narratives woven together by vocal music and the interplay of dynamic actors engaging those narratives, promises to become a beloved theatre production at home with the classics- Ntozake Shange’s “for colored girls…” and Eve Ensler’s “Vagina Monologues.”
Thank you, E. Patrick Johnson. We can’t wait to spread the word of the finished work! Visit: http://processseries.unc.edu/events/gathering-honey
– Alana Jones, TRIBES Editor
FEATURE EVENT: DURM HIP HOP SUMMIT 2014
DURM HIP HOP SUMMIT 2014
Taken from durmhiphopsummit.com. (Durham, NC) It seems like only this past August was when one of the BIGGEST events hit the Triangle. Hip Hop took over the city of DURHAM… or should I say, DURM… wait it was!! This year its going to be even BIGGER and BETTER! Leading up to 2014′s DURM Hip Hop Summit will be a monthly concert series, where every 3rd Friday we will introduce the city of DURM to an amazing out of town Hip Hop Artist and bring to you phenomenal Local Artists that are making their mark and taking over the triangle hip hop scene. Within this DURM Hip Hop Summit Concert Series will be mini summit style events to include Producer Battles, Freestyle Battles, DJ Spin offs as well as Graffiti and BBoys out side when the weather starts to get warmer! Each event will be held at Devines located at 904 W Main St . To KickStart the series on FEBRUARY 21st, the Man, the Myth, the Legend, Kourvioisier will start off the evening. Followed by some out of town help by Joe Crush DURM’s very own and founders of the DURM Hip Hop Summit, Toon & The Real Laww will round out the evening!! February 21st, 2014 (RSVP Here).
DURMHIPHOPSUMMIT.COM
AZIZ ANSARI: Modern Romance coming to Durham
THE CAROLINA THEATRE IN DURHAM PRESENTS
AZIZ ANSARI: MODERN ROMANCE
March 10 & March 11 | 7:00 & 9:30PM
Aziz Ansari is one of the biggest stars in the comedy world. Rolling Stone put him on the cover of their special comedy issue labeling him “the funniest man under 30.”He recently debuted his much anticipated third hour-long stand-up special “Buried Alive” on Netflix in November. The special was named one of the best standup specials of the year by The Onion AV Club and Paste Magazine. Ansari co-stars opposite Amy Poehler in the beloved Emmy-nominated NBC series Parks and Recreation, which is now in its sixth season. Ansari’s portrayal of government employee ‘Tom Haverford’ has earned him critical praise including Entertainment Weekly naming him one of their “Breakout TV Stars,” TV Guide naming him a “Scene Stealer” and People Magazine naming him 2011’s “Funniest Dude in Prime Time.” Read more now. Visit Carolina Theatre.
Feature Event: FLYPOET coming February 7, 2014
FLYPOET coming February 7, 2014
Great Nelson Mandela Quote
“It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
– Nelson Mandela
Stories from the Frontline of Urban Music, Arts and Culture 