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NMAAHC’s FREE Hip-Hop Block Party Returns!

The Hip-Hop Block Party: NMAAHC's Bash Is Back!
The Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture. Image source: Angela N., Flickr.

Ready to groove and move to what’s bouncing back onto the scene? The Hip-Hop Block Party is returning for the second time, and you won’t want to miss a beat! Mark your calendars for Saturday, Aug. 12, 2023, because that’s the day the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture transforms into the ultimate hip-hop mecca!

This year, they’re cranking up the excitement to the max as we celebrate a monumental milestone – 50 years of hip-hop’s brilliant artistry, breakthrough innovation, and global dominance. Five decades of pure hip-hop magic, and we’re about to jump right into the heart and soul of this epic cultural phenomenon.

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The audience at last year’s block party. Image source: Secret DC.

The air is electric with the beats that have shaped generations, the rhythm flowing through your veins like a musical adrenaline rush. As you step into the lively world of the Hip-Hop Block Party, you’re not just attending an event – you’re part of history in the making. From the funky beginnings to the mind-bending present, you’ll journey through the rhythm and rhyme that rocked the world.

However, this celebration isn’t just about music; it’s about honoring the very essence of a culture that has woven its existence into every corner of the globe. Hip-hop isn’t just beats and bars – it’s a movement, a lifestyle, a language that transcends culture and eras.

The Hip-Hop Block Party Bonanza: Immersive Hip-Hop Experience In The Museum!

There will be many activities from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. inside the museum on the first floor in Heritage Hall. Such as:

  • Interactive performances – Hip Hop Standing Yoga and Hip Hop Cardio with FITDC and The Art of Rhyme-Doin’ it the Right Way.

  • Providing audiences with the opportunity to share their opinions on trending hip-hop topics

  • A game of Hip Hop Trivia will be held to test audiences’ knowledge of the who, what, and when of the genre’s emergence over the past half-century. The night wouldn’t be complete without a special bonus round: ‘Name That Rap Voice’ – where contestants must guess the artist by just hearing their voice!

  • My Memories Photo Booth Collection Photo

Oprah Winfrey Theater (Concourse)

  • Screenings of Graffiti Rock and Wild Style are scheduled.

  • In Rhymes & Rebounds: Exploring the Fusion of Hip-Hop and Basketball, Justin Tinsley, a journalist and cultural observer, explores the intersection of art and sport with Flau’jae Johnson, rapper and basketball player for the 2023 NCAA Champion LSU Tigers.

Explore More! Interactive Gallery (L2)

  • Design and Make Your Own Tag and Bling

  • Live Sneaker Cleaning and Foot Care Expo

“Power of Place,” Community Galleries (L3)

  • Hip-Hop X Pop-up Sneaker Display

“Musical Crossroads,” Culture Galleries (L4)

  • Musical Crossroads Highlights Tour

  • Rap-influenced verse produced for audiences by The Typewriter Poets

Click here for more information regarding the activities taking place on Aug. 12!

The Party Features Which Artists?

There will be legendary artists performing at the block party. Among them are as follows:

American DJ and rapper Kid Capri! Bronx native Kid Capri turns records into pure gold! From eight, he scratched and spun his way to glory. Young Capri unleashed his turntablist wizardry and left audiences spellbound, even in his teens!

This dynamic artist wasn’t just content with pleasing local crowds. He took his talents to the iconic Studio 54, where the beats he dropped had the public busting moves they didn’t even know they had. In addition, he captured his powerful sets on mix tapes that became hotter than a summer sidewalk in the Bronx.

American DJ and rapper Kid Capri. Image source: Getty Images.

Now, let’s fast forward a bit. Kid Capri went from rockin’ those decks at Studio 54 to producing sessions for a crew of legends! Heavy D, Boogie Down Productions, and even the legendary Quincy Jones couldn’t resist the Kid’s musical abilities.

However, he wasn’t just about music. Capri knew how to bring the laughs too. On stage at Russell Simmons‘ Def Comedy Jam, he spun chuckles as effortlessly as he turned those records. For seven seasons, he was the godfather of comedy and beats, orchestrating hilarity like no other.

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Kid Capri DJing in his younger days. Image source: Pinterest

In 1991, Kid Capri unleashed “The Tape,” his debut solo masterpiece that sent shockwaves through the music scene.

Kid Capri’s 1991 debut solo album “The Tape.” Image source: Discogs.

Seven years down the road, he dropped the ultimate bombshell, the “Soundtrack to the Streets.” GOSH! The musical journey this man has taken us on! And he’s still going strong! He’s like the Energizer Bunny of hip-hop!

The Musical Maverick: DJ Cuzzin B Takes Center Stage

Who’s the other star appearing at the block party? Senior producer DJ Cuzzin B, aka Robert “Bobby” Carter, from NPR’s rocking Tiny Desk Concert series. But did you know that this musical maestro’s expedition started way back in 2000 when he graduated from Jackson State University? A blast from the past!

Young and enthusiastic Carter, fresh out of college, snagged a three-month internship. This mere stepping stone evolved into a 20-year radio career at NPR’s dazzling headquarters in Washington, D.C.

“I was interning at WJSU, the school’s radio station, and a recruiter for NPR walks in. I rushed her and asked for a job. She told me to slow down,” recalls Carter. “She said I couldn’t have a job, but she could give me an internship.”

Once that initial internship wrapped up, the producer from St. Louis decided to begin a new round of internships. He swam his way up the career ladder, transforming into an official employee like a superhero donning his cape!

DJ Cuzzin B, a.k.a. Robert “Bobby” Carter. Image source: Courtesy of Special To Clarion Ledger

With each passing year, Carter took on various roles with the energy of a musical ninja, and the result? In 2019, he earned the coveted title of senior producer for the Tiny Desk Concerts.

Bobby Carter, alongside his incredible music team, faced off against the challenges of the pandemic. And what did they do? They flipped the script and gave birth to the Tiny Desk [Home] Concerts series! From the soulful Kirk Franklin to the mesmerizing Tame Impala, and let’s not forget Jazmine Sullivan, these concerts became the stuff of legends.

Aside from music, Carter is keen on innovation too! He gathered brand-new initiatives and dazzling programs to sprinkle some stardust over the Tiny Desk audience. Like teaming up with Complexcon, diving into HBO’s “Insecure,” and even rubbing shoulders with the glitz and glamour of the 2021 film “Coming 2 America.” Talk about taking Tiny Desk to places nobody ever dreamt of!

Unveiling Monie Love’s Hip-Hop Journey

Crank up the hype-o-meter because the last artist I will mention will bring The Hip-Hop Block Party to a whole new level! British rap diva, Monie Love, breaks through!

Born Simone Johnson, a true hip-hop force, on Jul. 2, 1970, in the heart of Battersea, London, England. But Monie Love didn’t stop at her British roots. She packed her bags, hopped across the pond, and set up shop in the hip-hop mecca of New York City in 1989. That’s what you call leaping!

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British rapper Monie Love. Image source: New Lease Music

Monie Love wasn’t just rocking the mic solo from the get-go. Back then, she teamed up with her childhood pals MC Mell “O,” Sparki, and DJ Pogo, forming the ultimate dream team under the name Jus Bad Productions. Their first smash, “Freestyle,” dropped in 1987, and the streets were never the same again. But that was just an appetizer!

Fast forward to ’88, when Monie Love took the stage alongside DJ Pogo, they unleashed a series of 12-inch singles that were like treasures waiting to be discovered. And guess who heard the singles – DJ Tim Westwood! Then again, life’s not always a straight road. There were a few plot twists and delays, but that’s when fate stepped in.

Monie Love and DJ Pogo made their way to Cooltempo Records, armed with the infectious track “I Can Do This.” It blasted its way into the UK Top 40 charts like a musical meteor. Did someone say unstoppable grooves?

Unforgettable Hits

But Monie Love wasn’t here to drop hits and disappear into the sunset. She was just getting warmed up. She also unleashed another smash, “Grandpa’s Party,” paying homage to Afrika Bambaataa.

And she paired up with Andy Cox and David Steele of Fine Young Cannibals for the ultimate summer jam, “Monie In The Middle.”

In addition, she joined forces with True Image and took the UK to another level with their soulful rendition of the Detroit Spinners’ classic, “It’s A Shame (My Sister).” These geniuses even cracked the US Top 30 with that powerhouse hit.

So, gear up for the block party of the century! Ensure you’ve got your dancing shoes laced up and your energy levels set to maximum.

Find the NMAAHC Hip-Hop Block Party on Aug. 12, 2023, at 10:30 AM at the intersection of Madison Drive NW and 15th Street NW.

Written by Nikiya Biggs | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook

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‘Korea Liberation Day’ Is A Day Of Importance For Rapper Jay Park

jay park

Taking the time to respect past events will undoubtedly be seen as an admirable act. According to American rapper Jay Park, Aug 15 marks the freedom of Korea from Japan in 1945. It also led to the creation of the Korean government, which replaced the previous government’s law.

‘Korea Liberation Day’ Is Discussed In-Depth By Jay Park

On Aug 15, Park posted a clip to the music video for H1GHR Music’s “DNA” on his Instagram to honor Korea’s Liberation Day. The video was in English and had a long caption.

“Resources and artifacts stolen from or destroyed,” Jay posted.

According to the Edmonds-born rapper, the Korean culture and traditions were in danger of being destroyed, and they were at risk of extinction. In addition, there was once a prohibition on speaking the Korean language throughout much of the country. Therefore, people of Korean descent were forced to change their last names. Certain countries operate bizarrely. All individuals are entitled to keep the name they were given at birth, regardless of their nationality or heritage.

Koreans Underwent Immense Suffering According To Jay Park

Moreover, Koreans endured terrible suffering, including enslavement, death, torture, racial discrimination, and oppression.

“War breaking out within our own people and families torn apart and millions killed,” he said.

The effects of war on families have resulted in numerous cases of family breakdown, leading to a great deal of tragedy.

Immediately following the Korean War, South Korea experienced poverty comparable to that experienced by North Korea, if not worse. As a result, many people died from starvation and resorted to eating dirt to sustain themselves. The satisfaction of one’s hunger should never be achieved by eating inedible items.

According to the rapper, diligent work, perseverance, and unwavering willpower have turned disaster into victory throughout Korea’s long, turbulent, and heartbreaking history. Furthermore, Jay feels that the more he learns, the more aware he will be of his spoiledness. A mentality similar to Jay’s is not unique. In our privilege of enjoying a stable life without financial hardships, we tend to forget to recognize those struggling.

Jay Park Exhibits Appreciation

Aside from that, Jay wishes to express his gratitude to those who have ensured he has enjoyed such a rewarding life. One of the signs of maturity is expressing gratitude and putting pride aside when acknowledging one would not be where they are today without their ancestor’s contributions.

“The world knows us for entertainment, music and film. They will know our story soon as well. Happy Liberation Day,” Park said.

Objections Against The ‘DNA Remix’ Music Video

In June of 2021, the first version of the “DNA Remix” music video was released to highlight Korean culture and heritage. It also illustrates how Korean music has influenced cultures around the world. However, due to social media criticism, the video was set to private after many users pointed out the flaws. It has been argued that the rappers’ dreadlocks and braids illustrate cultural appropriation.

Former President Of North Korea, Kim II Sung, Freed The People In 1945

Now, let’s take a moment to talk about the hero who saved the day! Koreans observe the Day of Korea’s Liberation tribute to President Kim II Sung. Sung opened the way to a new life for the nation by performing the legendary deeds he is best known for.

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Kim II Sung. Credit: Sergey Guneev/Sputnik

Due to the occupation of the Japanese military during the first half of the twentieth century, the Korean people experienced a great deal of misery. To lead the struggle for national liberation that Kim Il Sung initiated when he was at the country’s helm, he set up a state of war against the Japanese attackers.

There was an immediate release of the Japanese military on August 15, 1945, which marked the liberation of the Korean people from the long period of Japanese rule that lasted nearly half a century.

Experiencing Happiness

Furthermore, hundreds of thousands of people rushed to the playground, shouting thunderous cheers and waving flags in a show of unity, not only from Pyongyang and its surroundings but also from Sariwon, Haeju, Sinuiju, and throughout the country. When one knows they have just been released from adversity, they will likely celebrate with as much joy as possible.

The cheers expressed the Korean people’s appreciation for Kim II Sung. His leadership fulfilled the national dreams of the Korean nation. They also expressed their willingness and readiness to participate in creating a new country under his command.

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Koreans expressed feelings of joy after being freed from captivity in 1945. Credit: Korean Friendship Association

On October 14, 1945, a historic meeting was held between Kim Il Sung and the country’s people at the Pyongyang public playground (now known as Kim Il Sung Stadium), in which he made a speech that will live in history.

A great deal of credit should be given to Kim II Sung for his diligent work. His contributions will be remembered forever. His efforts resulted in the freedom of many innocent individuals who had been held against their will.

Written by Nikiya Biggs

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Drake Dominates With Top 14 Songs on Billboard Hot 100

Drake is making history yet again.

All year long, Drake has teased fans with a new album, which he shared early on would be titled “Certified Lover Boy.” Fans were nervous about the album’s quality, not only because of how long it took to drop, but because he planned on dropping right after Kanye West’s “Donda” album.

Well, the nerves can settle. According to Billboard, the “Way 2 Sexy” rapper’s latest album, Certified Lover Boy, debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart this week after generating 743.7 + million streams in the U.S.

This means Drake takes the crown for the biggest debut week of any album in over a year. Taylor Swift’s Folklore previously held the top spot, after selling 846,000 units in the first 7 days.

Certified Lover Boy, which dropped on Sept. 3, is Drizzy’s 10th number one album, adding him to a short list of artists with at least 10 number one albums on the Billboard 200 chart.

Drake’s first topped the Billboard 200 chart back in 2010, with Thank Me Later.

Not only did he have an amazing week, but Billboard’s Streaming Songs chart also shared that the top 14 songs were nearly all CLB tracks, with “Way 2 Sexy” featuring Future and Young Thug at No. 1.

Other Drake songs included in the top 14 were “Girls Wants Girls,” “Papi’s Home” and “Champagne Poetry.”

CLB nearly doubled the weekly streaming record Kanye West briefly set last week when Donda pulled in 410.8 million streams. Ye still did well enough to land at Number Two this week with 230.8 million streams. But the gap between that number and Drake’s is now the largest gap in Artists 500 history.

Congrats to Drizzy on this major milestone.

 

Writer|Kacee Marie|Instagram|Website

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An August of Remembrance: Emmett Till, the March on Washington and Hurricane Katrina

According to some weather reports the last week in August is the hottest week of the year. Temperatures across the country soar into the 90s, bolstered by a brutal sun. The heat saps the life out of people. So we swelter. We wait for the Labor Day weekend to come, giving us a chance to cool off at the lake. We enjoy the long weekend. And though we sit in the shade, sheltered from the scorch, history still happens.  In fact, in the last week of August, history has been known to turn on its head. When it does, our world changes and a new chapter of the story is written.

There is a lot to remember about the last week of August: the brutal slaying of an innocent fourteen-year old boy in Mississippi. In Washington DC, a quarter of a million people marched to the Lincoln Memorial to hear a great man deliver one of the most profound speeches in American history. A hurricane dubbed the “storm that most of us have long feared” ravaged the Gulf Coast, saving its worst for Louisiana and the city of New Orleans.  Now, we take a look back at the anniversaries of the death of Emmet Till, the 1963 March on Washington and Hurricane Katrina.

August 28, 1955: Emmett Till

It took place in a barn in Drew, Mississippi. That was where Roy Bryant and J.W. Milam beat, tortured and mutilated fourteen-year old Emmett Till. He was then taken, disfigured and barely alive, to the Tallahatchie River where he was shot, his body dumped in the waters. His only “crime” being that he may have whistled at a white grocery store worker, 21-year old Carolyn Bryant, wife to Roy.

Under the dehumanizing social system of the Jim Crow south, lynching had gone on for decades. The murder of Emmet Till changed everything.

Emmett Till, c. 1955. Via “The Murder of Emmett Till”.

Upon news of Till’s murder, the nation was horrified. Soon, Bryant and Milam would be acquitted of all charges by an all-white jury, taking just sixty-seven minutes to deliberate. The country now knew it had a problem. To showcase the true horror of it, Till’s mother had an open casket funeral. Indeed, when asked what her inspiration was behind her refusal to move, Rosa Parks stated:

“I thought of Emmett Till and I just couldn’t go back.”  

From there, the protests, movements and marches came forth. Till’s murder brought civil rights to the forefront of American life. Nine years shy of his murder, in July of 1964, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed.

Today, Emmett Till is seen as one of the most profound, tragic, and important figures in the civil rights movement. His name lives on in schools, roads, highways, buildings, legislation, film, books and so much more. Notable is the plaque by the Tallahatchie River honoring Till. As a sign of America’s ever-present racism, the sign has been continuously vandalized since 2008. In 2019, the sign was even bulletproofed.

 

August 28, 1963: The March on Washington

Officially “The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom”, the demonstration was a long time coming. Though African-Americans had nominal freedom since 1863, much had been done to stall further progress. Within thirty years, Jim Crow dominated the South and the way ahead for African Americans looked painful and uncertain. By the 1960s, social, economic and professional discrimination had continued to go unaddressed, so a response was proposed: march on the capitol.

The brainchild of A. Philip Randolph and Bayard Rustin, the march called for many proposed changes. To summarize: meaningful civil rights legislation, protections for workers all of races, an end to legalized discrimination, and the establishment of a $2 minimum wage.

On August 28, more than a quarter of a million marchers descended upon the national mall. Washington was electrified by one of the largest rallies in US history. The speakers that day included: Randolph, labor leader Walter Reuther, future Georgia Representative John Lewis, civil rights journalist Daisy Bates, and of course, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. It was there that MLK delivered his “I Have A Dream” speech, now a cornerstone of U.S. history.

Coming away from the march, liberals and conservatives alike rallied behind Dr. King. Many saw King’s speech as the main event. Nearly sixty years later, this is the narrative. But in terms of success, there is still much to be done. While a nation was awoken, the economic problems remained. To this day, the core issues have yet to be fully addressed.

Yet the march continues. Last Saturday, another march was held in commemoration of the first, with over fifty thousand people in attendance.

 

August 28-30, 2005: Hurricane Katrina

Southeast of the Bahamas, a monster took form. It was born on August 23, 2005, and by the time it breathed it’s last on August 30, the Gulf Coast would be forever changed.

On August 28, at around six o’clock in the morning, Katrina made landfall near the Louisiana-Mississippi border. As is bore down on New Orleans, the flood walls burst. In all, some fifty-three breaches were reported, submerging 80% of the city. Across Louisiana and Mississippi, winds were clocked at 150 mph. Rain fell up to fifteen inches in some places. Hundreds of thousands lost power, homes, possessions and their lives. Within twenty four-hours, more than a thousand residents of New Orleans had died.  Another three hundred died throughout Mississippi.

New Orleans, Sept. 11, 2005. Courtesy of NOAA.

 

In the short term, tens of thousands were made homeless. The devastation was immense. Roads, bridges, streets were unusable or destroyed. The economic costs were only matched by Hurricane Harvey in 2017. In the long term, a people lost their city. After Katrina, the Black population in the city fell from 66% to 59%.

Take the Lower Ninth Ward. Devastated by the storm, the mostly African-American ward was effectively given up for lost by city leadership. All over New Orleans, a similar scene played out: the poorer African-American population fled, white professional and business owners moved in, and gentrification took hold. Already existing problems of inequality were infinitely worsened.

Today, the people of New Orleans strive on. The city known as “The Big Easy” has held its ground in the sixteen years since Katrina. Even now, as Hurricane Ida rages through, the levees are holding this time.

 

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Written by Garrett C. Owen   

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