Where to begin? I could start nearly a year ago...the last time I was on tour--connections made with like-minded spirits...visions of a youth exchange project: Berlin to New York City. I could begin with the creation of a collaborative musical project--Gangway Beatz Vol. 2, different languages and cultures unified through breakbeats and rhyme. Or I could begin with the last 3 months...hustling to secure the funding needed to make a day like today possible--Hip Hop I do believe!
The Berlin-Bronx Connection is a "year-round cross cultural exchange program that uses the medium of music--particularly, rap and hip hop--to explore and express the unique experiences of urban youth around the world, the critical challenges they face and the solutions necessary to enact change in their communities." What began as a discussion and desire amongst friends, colleagues and Hip Hop heads was made real today.
Over the next 10 days, we will be celebrating the release of our joint-album, performing at the United States Embassy in Berlin, conducting workshops on global urban youth culture and the medium of Hip Hop. From the hallowed halls of universities and community centers dedicated to Hip Hop culture to the cells of the Berlin Juvenile Detention Center, these youth (from Urban Word and CUNY Prep) will be holding down the culture and the City that gave birth to that culture.
I will do my best to document and reflect upon this transformational experience...forgive me if I fail to do it justice...
Peace,
Far
PS - Any and all feedback would be greatly appreciated...hit me up with questions/comments...I'd love to see what your thinking...Say Word!
PPS - Check out a video for the first single from the album...Trading Bars...
