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Post by Spy on Jul 15, 2008 15:27:50 GMT 1
I know this isn't exactly a music related post and I'm sure some might find it strange for me to promote something from another site. However, this is an important issue that needs to be addressed and, in this case, it's being addressed through music so it's not totally inappropriate of me to post this here. What I'm talking about is an awareness-raising event organized by and featuring prominent members of the UK Hip Hop community. Yes, the very same community (alongside Grime) that's often blamed for youth violence. Youth violence is not a new phenomenon nor is it restricted to Black music - ever heard of Teddy Boys, Mods, Skinheads, etc. Having said that, it is affecting 'our' youth and therefore any (well thought out) initiative to try and stop this situation will be fully supported by me. As soon as I know more about the linked event, I will come back and update this thread.
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Post by Spy on Nov 11, 2008 12:36:34 GMT 1
OK, since my previous post Hip Hop Science has met an unexpected and early demise and I publicly declared that I would take on the responsibility for this event myself. What I'm considering doing is getting London's top Hip Hop and Grime emcees together to do a gig at the Albany in Deptford (or similar and similarly sympathetic venue). The purpose of this line-up would be to attract the target audience, i.e. teenagers/young adults who are likely to be involved and/or know someone who's involved in the violence. In between the acts I propose to have a few (not too many) presentations from relevant people and organizations, e.g. knife crime victims/victims families, the police, etc. A nominal admittance fee, say £5.00 for over 18's, £2.50 for under 18's and free admission to those who are willing to hand in a knife or other weapon. This last bit depends entirely upon me arranging a weapons amnesty with the local police, which is one of the first things on my agenda. I also hope to involve the BBC (London, 1Xtra, BBC3, etc.) to record the event for later broadcast. And finally, I'd like to organize the recording of a single (double A side; Grime on one, Hip Hop on the other) with the acts from the gig the proceeds of which (along with any profit made from the gig) would go toward promoting the anti-violence message and to relevant established charities/organizations. So, what do you think? Any obvious flaws or holes in my thinking? I know I haven't mentioned how I'm going to fund all this yet and, of course, that is a very important issue; I've got to pay for the venue, the acts (unless they decide to volunteer their services for the cause), the promotion/advertising and pay for the studio time and producer(s) of the recording. I have a few ideas about getting help with funding but I'm open to any suggestions with this.
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Post by Carlos on Nov 11, 2008 13:55:55 GMT 1
Now that really sounds like a brilliant, brilliant idea. I'm definately on the team if you need any help/ backup etc, this seems to make complete sense. Also, in terms of me as an artist I really think at least some of my lyrical content should start reflecting on aspects of youth crime, the reality of whats going on with our community. Hopefully will make a difference, at the least it should highlight the positive aspects Hip-Hop, Grime and other black music give to young people.
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Post by Spy on Nov 11, 2008 14:57:54 GMT 1
Greetings Carlos,
Thanks for your positive reply. However, I've just been speaking to the police and, although they haven't told me not to do it, they've been much less enthusiastic about it than even my cynical mind expected them to be. Not giving up though.
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