--- Subscribe to our companion newsletter: https:/www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch ---

In this episode, host Manny Faces is joined by Professor Seth Markle, Andreia Soares, and Taris "Bboy Poptart" Clemons to break down what's in store for the 20th edition of this iconic event, put on by Trinity College in association with The Temple of Hip Hop.

Discover why the festival is a cornerstone for the Hartford scene and an international force bridging generations, elements, and communities. Get the inside scoop on headliners, the international lineup, breaking battles, and the festival’s powerful "Voices of Freedom" theme, connecting 20 years of hip hop to 250 years since the American Revolution.

This episode highlights how hip hop continues to uplift communities and drive social change. Seth Markle explains, "The festival is all about diverse representation, showing the five elements of the culture and really showing the Hartford hip hop community and the ways in which it really uplifts the culture and our festival" Soares adds, "There is a generational trajectory right now... it's social justice, it's the common good. It's important" Poptart shares his passion as both a former competitor and the current breaking event coordinator: "All I hope to do is just keep shedding light on our B boy scene and giving them the highest level of competitors we can have here... bringing them what they see on TV right to their backyard."

Whether you’re an artist, academic, organizer, or fan, this focused conversation will get you ready for Trinity’s can’t-miss blend of battles, panels, live shows, and community celebration. Tune in to understand why this festival holds a unique space—locally and globally—in keeping Hip Hop’s revolutionary spirit alive!

For more on the conference, visit https://www.instagram.com/trinityhiphop

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If you’re looking for Hip Hop news with context, history, and care, you’re in the right place.

📬 Subscribe to the Hip Hop Can Save America! newsletter Curated Hip Hop journalism on culture, education, media, and social impact https://mannyfaces.substack.com

🎙️ Audio episodes & segments https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

❤️ Support independent, culture-driven journalism https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

About the series:

Hip Hop Can Save America! explores Hip Hop as culture, history, journalism, and problem-solving — not just entertainment.

Discover how this never-before-seen course blends live performance, deep cultural history, and raw creativity to shatter old stereotypes and rewrite what academia -- and Hip Hop -- can be.

We discuss the ways women MCs and culture-shapers have left their mark on Hip Hop around the world, how inviting actual pioneers into academic spaces is a game-changer, and what this shift could mean for Hip Hop’s next chapter.

If you care about Hip Hop, innovation in education, or the stories that have been left out, you can’t afford to miss this conversation. Class is in session…

Follow Eternia: https://www.instagram.com/TheRealEternia

Follow Dr. D'Amico-Cuthbert: https://www.instagram.com/artefactsbyfrancesca

Special shouts to professor Chesney Snow for making this course possible.

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My book: "Hip Hop Can Save America! Inspiration for the Nation from a Culture of Innovation" - https://www.mannyfaces.com/book

The Hip Hop Can Save America! media ecosystem (podcast, newsletter, Discord, and more): https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Support this important, independent cultural journalism: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

The conversation highlights research on how Hip Hop DJing and production can help with ADHD, the debut of the "Young John Lewis: Prodigy of Protest" Hip Hop musical, and celebrations of the legacy of underground icon Mr. Complex.

If you think Hip Hop has lost its depth, its politics, or its power — this segment helps make the case that you’re just not looking in the right places.

(Excerpted from the weekly "Hip Hop Can Save America!" livestream.)

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My book: "Hip Hop Can Save America! Inspiration for the Nation from a Culture of Innovation" - https://www.mannyfaces.com/book

The Hip Hop Can Save America! media ecosystem (podcast, newsletter, Discord, and more): https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Support this important, independent cultural journalism: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

The conversation highlights a Princeton University course on women in Hip-Hop, rapper Nur-D's stand against ICE in Minneapolis, the legacy of Houston's Michael "5000" Watts, and the GRAMMY win for Fyutch and his daughter Aura V in the children's music category.

If you think Hip Hop has lost its depth, its politics, or its power — this segment helps make the case that you’re just not looking in the right places.

(Excerpted from the weekly "Hip Hop Can Save America!" livestream.)

---

My book: "Hip Hop Can Save America! Inspiration for the Nation from a Culture of Innovation" - https://www.mannyfaces.com/book

The Hip Hop Can Save America! media ecosystem (podcast, newsletter, Discord, and more): https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Support this important, independent cultural journalism: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Host Manny Faces is joined by radio and podcasting veteran Keisha "TK" Dutes, to discuss her work connecting directly with Minneapolis residents amid social upheaval and media spotlight.

Listen as Keisha "TK" Dutes shares her perspective on amplifying community voices outside of mainstream media: "You don't have to have a [particular] job to be an activist… you don't even have to be an activist to be an activist... These people are just "regular." And they all my homies."

This focused conversation dives deep into the power of local journalism, how stories are told and heard beyond corporate filters, and why hearing directly from residents and grassroots leaders in places like Minneapolis is crucial.

If you're interested in citizen journalism, the intersection of Hip Hop, activism, and authentic reporting, this clip offers actionable insights and relatable stories you won't hear anywhere else.

Follow TK: https://www.instagram.com/tastykeish

Follow C: https://www.instagram.com/agtraphaus

Follow BondfireRadio: https://www.instagram.com/bondfireradio

---

My book: "Hip Hop Can Save America! Inspiration for the Nation from a Culture of Innovation" - https://www.mannyfaces.com/book

The Hip Hop Can Save America! media ecosystem (podcast, newsletter, Discord, and more): https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Support this important, independent cultural journalism: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Whether you’re an artist, educator, or advocate, this conversation is a must-watch for anyone interested in how Hip Hop culture can drive social change and foster community.

FOR INFO: https://www.bit.ly/BLACKAF2026RSVP

TO DONATE: https://www.bit.ly/BLACKAFDONATE

TO VOLUNTEER: www.bit.ly/BLACKAFVOLUNTEER

(Excerpted from the weekly Hip Hop Can Save America! livestream.)

---

My book: "Hip Hop Can Save America! Inspiration for the Nation from a Culture of Innovation" - https://www.mannyfaces.com/book

The Hip Hop Can Save America! media ecosystem (podcast, newsletter, Discord, and more): https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Support this important, independent cultural journalism: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

If you think Hip Hop has lost its depth, its politics, or its power — this episode makes the case that you’re just not looking in the right places.

(Excerpted from the weekly Hip Hop Can Save America! livestream.)

---

My book: "Hip Hop Can Save America! Inspiration for the Nation from a Culture of Innovation" - https://www.mannyfaces.com/book

The Hip Hop Can Save America! media ecosystem (podcast, newsletter, Discord, and more): https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Support this important, independent cultural journalism: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

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Follow the guests: David Spellmon - https://positivearchersolutions.com

My book: "Hip Hop Can Save America! Inspiration for the Nation from a Culture of Innovation" - https://www.mannyfaces.com/book

The Hip Hop Can Save America! media ecosystem (podcast, newsletter, Discord, and more): https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Support this important, independent cultural journalism: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Martin Luther King, Jr.'s legacy encompasses so much more than simply his 'I Have a Dream' speech, and his mission is as imperative today as it was then. We republish “MLK: What They Won’t Teach in School”—our 2017 inaugural episode—each MLK Day as a reminder of the civil rights leader’s lasting impact, the movement’s ongoing struggle, and still unrealized goals. Learn some of what the history books left out. Featuring interviews with Pastor Roger C. Williams of the First Baptist Church of Glen Cove, NY and Larry Hamm of the Newark, NJ-based social justice group People's Organization for Progress; original verses performed by hip hop artist Silent Knight; and King’s own words, listeners learn about MLK’s Poor People’s Campaign, which he believed would be his true legacy. More than likely, it was this that got him killed.

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📬 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/newsletter

📘 Read the book: *Hip Hop Can Save America!* https://www.mannyfaces.com/book

📺 Watch the videos/livestream: https://www.youtube.com/mannyfaces

🎤 Watch my TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/5rRxG1i5iRo?si=jOkW43tVbrYeqdIT

This segment is excerpted from the weekly Hip Hop Can Save America! livestream, airing Mondays at 9pm ET on YouTube - SUBSCRIBE TODAY at https://www.youtube.com/mannyfaces

---

📬 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/newsletter

📘 The book: *Hip Hop Can Save America!* https://www.mannyfaces.com/book

🎤 Watch my TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/5rRxG1i5iRo?si=jOkW43tVbrYeqdIT

📘 The book: *Hip Hop Can Save America!* https://www.mannyfaces.com/book

🎤 Watch my TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/5rRxG1i5iRo?si=jOkW43tVbrYeqdIT

---

Discover how Hip Hop and DJ culture are revolutionizing education and support for neurodivergent youth in this powerful episode of "Hip Hop Can Save America." Host Manny Faces sits down with Courtney Willis and JAY*CLIPP, co-founders of Spin the Spectrum, as well as educator Andrew Wang, to discuss how neurodivergent children — including those on the autism spectrum — find connection and empowerment through music production, DJing, beatboxing and more. The conversation taps into the heart of inclusive teaching, showing why Hip Hop’s routines, cyphers, and creative self-expression are a natural fit for autistic and neurodivergent learners.

Spin the Spectrum, based in Dallas, brings together professional DJ training and clinically informed support to create safe, engaging environments for young people with unique communication and sensory needs. Courtney Willis, a seasoned speech-language pathologist, and JAY*CLIPP, a master DJ and instructor, explain how their interdisciplinary approach equips students with social, emotional, and career-building skills—whether they dream of rocking the crowd or simply mastering self-regulation. Real-world student stories illustrate transformative outcomes and highlight how this innovative model builds community, self-confidence, and career opportunities for those historically left out of mainstream music education.

Rounding out the episode, Andrew Wang shares his personal journey as a neurodivergent music educator and researcher, spotlighting the broader movement to incorporate Hip Hop into neuroinclusive classrooms nationwide. If you’re searching for fresh perspectives on music, disability advocacy, or the intersection of Hip Hop and mental health, hit play now!

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share — this is a must-watch for educators, parents, advocates, and anyone who believes in the power of Hip Hop to uplift and transform lives.

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Follow the guests:

Spin the Spectrum — https://www.spinthespectrum.org

Andrew Wang — https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-wang-942138228/

My book: Hip Hop Can Save America! Inspiration for the Nation from a Culture of Innovation" - https://www.mannyfaces.com/book

The Hip Hop Can Save America! media ecosystem (podcast, newsletter, Discord, and more): https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Support this important, independent cultural journalism: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

📘 The book: *Hip Hop Can Save America!* https://www.mannyfaces.com/book

🎤 Watch my TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/5rRxG1i5iRo?si=jOkW43tVbrYeqdIT

---

What happens when Hip Hop’s deepest history meets the power of visual storytelling? In this episode of Hip Hop America, Manny Faces sits down with historian Dr. Walter Greason and visual Afrofuturist Tim Fielder, the duo behind "The Graphic History of Hip Hop," a project that has exploded across classrooms, museums, Comic-Cons, and global Hip Hop circles.

Together, we dig into:

🎨 How a simple classroom project became a nationwide phenomenon

📚 Why they chose to tell Hip Hop’s story as a graphic history, not a comic

🌍 The global impact — from NYC schools to the Smithsonian, San Diego Comic-Con, and Senegal

🧠 The role of Hip Hop as pedagogy, historical analysis, and Afrofuturist innovation

🔥 How young people are responding (“middle schoolers literally stormed the room…”)

🕊 Why Hip Hop keeps becoming the blueprint for the future — culturally, politically, and academically

This conversation hits everything from James Brown to Nelson Mandela, Public Enemy to the Native Tongues, the Bronx to Afrofuturism, and the ongoing fight to place Hip Hop where it belongs: at the center of global cultural change.

If you care about Hip Hop, art, education, Black history, visual culture, or the future of storytelling — this is the one.

Get the book: https://www.graphichistorycompany.com

Follow the guests:

Dr. Walter D. Greason — https://www.walterdgreason.com/

Tim Fielder (DieselFunk) — https://www.dieselfunk.com

My book: Hip Hop Can Save America! Inspiration for the Nation from a Culture of Innovation" - https://www.mannyfaces.com/book

The Hip Hop Can Save America! media ecosystem (podcast, newsletter, Discord, and more): https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Support this important cultural journalism: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Get an inside look at the inaugural "To the Beat Y'all Symposium," a three-day celebration of movement, research, and community-building. Ashley shares her motivation for designing a festival that embraces all elements of hip hop—not just MCing or DJing, but also dance, visual art, and scholarship. As she explains: "I just consider hip hop this powerful force for embodied transformation… When they would leave the classroom, a lot of times they felt this new sense of self-worth and their shoulders back, head a little higher... Really understanding that their body is their first home."

Highlights from the episode include why dance is sometimes overlooked in Hip Hop spaces, how community-driven gatherings create lasting connections, and practical ways anyone can engage with Hip Hop culture — artistically, academically, or just for the love of it.

If you want to be inspired by hip hop's power as a "vehicle for creativity and education and social change," this one's for you! Don't miss Ashley's inside scoop and Manny's signature, thought-provoking questions. Hit play, join the conversation, and find out how Hip Hop Can Save America.

TIX/INFO: https://www.tinyurl.com/tothebeatyallsymposium

#HipHopCulture #DanceEducation #CommunityEmpowerment

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📚 This interview also connects to themes from the Cornel West-endorsed book, "Hip Hop Can Save America! Inspiration for the Nation from a Culture of Innovation," showing how Hip Hop provides strategies for education, social justice, mental health, and civic engagement.

Purchase the book here: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/book

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For more from Manny Faces: https://www.mannyfaces.com

The Hip Hop Can Save America! media ecosystem (podcast, newsletter, Discord, and more): https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Support this important cultural journalism: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

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Key topics: hip hop symposium organization, dance as resistance and empowerment, movement and rhythm in hip hop, hip hop pedagogy, intersection of art and scholarship, accessibility of hip hop events, research presentations in hip hop, student involvement and poster presentations, visual arts in hip hop culture, community building and networking, inclusivity within hip hop conferences, history and types of hip hop dance, social dances and their significance, street dance and hip hop adjacency, empowerment through body movement, cultural legacy and memory in hip hop, bridging academic and community gaps, creative education and social change, youth contributions to hip hop, authenticity and expression in dance, ecosystem of hip hop arts

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If you believe Hip Hop is more than music—if you see it as a force for unity, creativity, and change—then hit LIKE, drop a COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more interviews, essays, and stories at the intersection of Hip Hop and society.

This video breaks down how PragerU operates, why it’s so dangerous for all students (especially Black and marginalized communities), and how Hip Hop culture — from KRS-One’s “You Must Learn” to modern Hip Hop-based pedagogy — offers uniquely powerful, proven lessons and tactics on how to counter these efforts.

If you’re an educator, this matters for how you teach and protect your students.

If you’re a parent, you need to know that this will dictate what your children are actually learning in school.

If you’re a policymaker or activist, this will provide some guidance as to how communities can push back against authoritarian strategies disguised as “education."

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📚 This essay also connects to themes from the book Hip Hop Can Save America! Inspiration for the Nation from a Culture of Innovation—showing how Hip Hop provides strategies for education, social justice, mental health, and civic engagement.

--

PLEASE SUPPORT THIS WORK: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces or https://mannyfaces.substack.com

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Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

LINKS TO SHOW WEBSITE/YOUTUBE/INFO: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

From the late founder Daniel “Majesty” Sanchez to today’s artists and organizers who carry on his vision, Legendary Cyphers represents more than music. It’s a living blueprint for community building, equity, leadership, innovation, and collaboration. In this video, journalist and cultural strategist Manny Faces unpacks how a cypher becomes a classroom, a stage, a sanctuary, and a microcosm of what society could be if we embraced Hip Hop’s deeper ethos.

📚 This essay also connects to themes from the book Hip Hop Can Save America! Inspiration for the Nation from a Culture of Innovation—showing how Hip Hop provides strategies for education, social justice, mental health, and civic engagement.

--

PLEASE SUPPORT THIS WORK: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces or https://mannyfaces.substack.com

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

LINKS TO SHOW WEBSITE/YOUTUBE/INFO: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

--

PLEASE SUPPORT THIS WORK: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces or https://mannyfaces.substack.com

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

LINKS TO SHOW WEBSITE/YOUTUBE/INFO: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

What’s Inside This Episode:

• Podcast Relaunch: Get ready! The award-winning show is coming back soon with (mostly) weekly episodes. Expect more inspiring interviews with educators, activists, teaching artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators leveraging hip hop to uplift individuals and communities.
• Book Announcement: Manny’s debut book, Hip Hop Can Save America: Inspiration for the Nation From a Culture of Innovation, is out now, endorsed by luminaries such as Dr. Cornel West, Dr. Raphael Travis, Dr. Murray Forman, the Howard University Hip Hop Studies Program, and more. The book is packed with impactful, real-world stories, showing hip hop’s influence in education, healthcare, social justice, and beyond. It’s a must-read for teachers, parents, and anyone curious about creative solutions for persistent societal challenges.
• Where to Get the Book: Head to hiphopcansaveamerica.com/book to learn more or purchase. Personalized, signed copies are available!
• Upcoming Appearances: Manny will be speaking at events, conferences, and, most notably, delivering a TEDx talk in Atlanta on September 27th. Stay up-to-date with his calendar at mannyfaces.com/calendar.
• Stay Connected: Browse past episodes, subscribe, and spread the word about the show. Hip Hop media that focuses on positive, community-driven stories needs your support!
• Join the Ecosystem: Check out the podcast’s YouTube channel, newsletter, Discord server, and subreddit -- all at hiphopcansaveamerica.com.

Support this important cultural journalism at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces or mannyfaces.substack.com

Thank you for tuning in. Whether you're new to the show or a longtime listener, we appreciate your support.

A pioneer in Hip Hop theater and education, Toni was both an Echoing Green and a Soros Fellow for programs she created like Rhyme Like a Girl and The Freestyle Union. She has also worked as a Spoken Word/Rap Coach for Disney's Emmy Award-winning series, The Crossover.

With a passion for social justice and cultural exchange, Toni continues to inspire and empower through her music, writing, and community work. Fresh off dates in Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Accra and Joburg, Toni's celebrating the upcoming release of her audiobook for Wisdom of the Cypher, as well as the release of her documentary, A Woman’s Place is in the Cypher, supported by the Big We Foundation’s SheStories grant. Toni lives between Brooklyn, NY and Dakar, Senegal.

https://www.toniblackman.com

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Support this quality, independent Hip Hop cultural journalism: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces or https://mannyfaces.substack.com

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

So ayo, real quick... Check out my talk with REAL QUICK.

--

PLEASE SUPPORT THIS WORK: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces or https://mannyfaces.substack.com

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

It gave me the opportunity to bring out as my guest, a long-time, world-touring, indie rap artist, dope wordsmith, beatmaker and producer, educator, author, and all around cool cat, John Robinson who some may know as JR or Lil Sci from Scienz of Life.

Most of it translates well to the audio pod, so if you haven’t seen this over on YouTube, and this is your preferred medium, have no fear. You’ll get an entertaining, informative and insightful interview as usual, with the added bonus of some Hip Hop news that isn’t about dumb shit, and the extra in-person shenanigans that took place.

More on John Robinson at www.johnrobinsonmusic.com

--

PLEASE SUPPORT THIS WORK: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces or https://mannyfaces.substack.com

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

As part of this remembrance, Dr. Adia Winfrey helps orchestrate the Intergenerational Hip Hop Political Summit, replete with performances, speakers, and announcing a call-to-action for members of the Hip Hop community in Alabama, and at-large, to ensure we continue to use the culture for more than just entertainment.

Dr. Winfrey, who has been on the show before, is a Doctor of Psychology and the creator of the H.Y.P.E. Hip Hop Therapy initiative. She previously ran for Congress and is co-creator of the political activism organization Transform Alabama. Dr. Dia, as she is affectionately known, took a few moments to break down what to expect from this year’s Jubilee, the Hip Hop Summit, and beyond, as we all continue to uplift the political power of the Hip Hop community.

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PLEASE SUPPORT THIS WORK: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces or https://mannyfaces.substack.com

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

For more on Dr. Sconiers, visit www.doctorsconiersspeaks.com

PLEASE SUPPORT THIS WORK: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces or https://mannyfaces.substack.com

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

PLEASE SUPPORT THIS WORK: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces or https://mannyfaces.substack.com

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

It doesn't matter. What DOES matter, is what we decide to do next.

PLEASE SUPPORT THIS WORK: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces or https://mannyfaces.substack.com

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Lost in a lot of the emotions but critics and supporters alike, was that these actions, while perpetrated by Hip Hop artists, don't reflect Hip Hop.

Manny Faces. creator of the Hip Hop Can Save America! media ecosystem, breaks it down.

PLEASE SUPPORT THIS WORK: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

#donaldtrump #trump #trumpinauguration #hiphop #hiphopculture #snoopdogg #nelly #rickross #souljaboy

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Lupe Fiasco, now a rap professor at Johns Hopkins' Peabody Institute, continues his work bringing hip hop into academia, but his "Endless LUP" collaboration with MIT to create AI-generated Lupe Fiasco rap songs has ignited controversy. Critics argue that using AI to produce music, especially from a cultural icon like Lupe, risks further gentrifying hip hop and stripping it of its authentic roots. This excerpt from our full live broadcast dives into the ethics of AI in music, the intersection of technology and culture, and the broader implications for the future of hip hop education.

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Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Some topics covered include Hip Hop x education, Hip Hop x mental health therapy, Hip Hop x archiving, and more!

Enjoy!

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Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

In this exclusive conversation with Manny Faces and J1, learn about:

• How streaming technology saved hip hop after nearly destroying it
• SiriusXM's partnerships with HBCUs
• Why data doesn't tell the whole story in music programming
• The evolution of digital streaming in Hip Hop culture
• How legacy artists find new audiences through streaming

Key Highlights:

• Behind-the-scenes look at music programming decisions
• The importance of balancing data with cultural authenticity
• Creating opportunities for the next generation of industry leaders
• How streaming platforms pay artists directly
• The future of AI and technology in music

Whether you're an aspiring artist, industry professional, or hip hop enthusiast, this conversation offers valuable insights into how streaming platforms are shaping the future of music while preserving Hip Hop's cultural legacy.

Subscribe for more conversations exploring Hip Hop's influence in technology, business, and culture.

#HipHopBusiness #MusicIndustry #SiriusXM #MusicTechnology #StreamingPlatforms #HBCUs #MusicProgramming #HipHopCulture #DigitalStreaming #MusicBiz #HipHopEd

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Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

I think you'll like it. Email manny@mannyfaces.com to let me know if I should keep doing it!

Enjoy!

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Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Get an inside look at:

- The groundbreaking Hip Hop & R&B degree program

- How students get direct access to Grammy-winning producers

- The program's exclusive Roc Nation distribution deal

- Real success stories of graduates in the music industry

- Why artist development is crucial for long-term success

Key Highlights:

✓ Building a comprehensive music education for today's artists

✓ Balancing classroom learning with real industry experience

✓ How students collaborate with top industry professionals

✓ The importance of understanding both studio and live performance

✓ Bringing cultural authenticity to music education

Whether you're an aspiring artist, music educator, industry professional, or hip hop enthusiast, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of music education and artist development.

From producing records to scoring architectural installations, learn how Professor Antoine (Instagram: @raneyajr) Loyola are bridging the gap between traditional music education and contemporary hip hop culture.

Subscribe for more conversations exploring hip hop's influence in education, culture, and beyond.

#HipHopEducation #MusicBusiness #LoyolaNewOrleans #ArtistDevelopment #MusicProduction #HipHopStudies #RAndB #MusicEducation #NewOrleans #RecordingArtist

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Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

In this discussion, learn about:

• Howard's pioneering new Hip Hop Studies minor
• The intersection of Hip Hop, technology, and social change
• How Gen Z is reshaping Hip Hop culture and education
• Hip Hop's global impact from Africa to Europe
• The future of Hip Hop education at Howard University

Key Highlights:

• Behind the scenes of launching a Hip Hop minor at a prestigious HBCU
• Chuck D's documentary screening and upcoming conference events
• The evolution of Hip Hop studies in academia
• How students are challenging traditional Hip Hop perspectives
• International Hip Hop movements and their influence

Whether you're an educator, student, Hip Hop enthusiast, artist, or cultural scholar, this conversation offers invaluable insights into the future of Hip Hop studies and its role in higher education.

Join us November 15-17 at Howard University's Hip Hop Conference!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2nd-annual-hip-hop-studies-conference-tickets-1004857605147?aff=erelexpmlt

Contact: hip_hop@howard.edu

Instagram: @howardhiphop

Subscribe for more conversations exploring Hip Hop's influence in education, culture, and social change.

#hiphopeducation #HowardUniversity #HBCU #HipHopStudies #HigherEducation #BlackExcellence #HipHopCulture #HipHopConference #GlobalHipHop #HipHopScholar

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Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

- Using Hip Hop as a powerful tool for adult mental health

- Bridging the gap between traditional therapy and cultural relevance

- Empowering communities with self-healing tools rooted in Hip Hop culture

Highlights include:

✓ The difference between using Hip Hop for connection vs. healing

✓ How Hip Hop can rewire neural pathways and promote healing

✓ The importance of culturally relevant therapy for adults

✓ Exciting new Hip Hop counseling certificate program for professionals

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Please support this show: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

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Whether you're a mental health professional, educator, or Hip Hop enthusiast, this conversation offers invaluable insights into the transformative power of Hip Hop in therapy and community healing.

Dr. Norris breaks down complex concepts like neuroplasticity and explains why Hip Hop is uniquely positioned to address trauma and promote wellness in underserved communities.

Join us as we explore how Rhythms of Healing is creating a new paradigm in mental health, bridging generational gaps, and proving that Hip Hop isn't just music – it's a powerful tool for personal and community transformation.

Subscribe for more conversations on Hip Hop's influence in education, mental health, and social change. Hip Hop can save America – and heal it too!

Dr. Norris's Hip Hop Counseling Certificate Program: https://james-norris.mykajabi.com/offers/QzK3V8HC/checkout

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Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

In late 2023, however, the site was failing, leaving the future of its enormous musical and cultural collection in doubt.

The site made headlines in early 2024, linking up with The Internet Archive, a home for vast amounts of digital properties, in a move that was seen as a way to keep its vast array of musical compilations safe for the future.

A few days ago, with no warning or explanation from DatPiff OR The Internet Archive, all 366,420 rap mixtapes being housed on the latter site, disappeared.

We spoke exclusively with radio host Richard, aka u/AyoRet on Reddit, who discovered the rap mixtape archive pruning and brought it to the attention of the Hip Hop world.

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Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

• Using Hip Hop to mentor youth and support artistic expression
• Bridging generational gaps through music and culture
• Creating a Hip Hop cultural resource for the entire community
• Balancing nonprofit work with authentic Hip Hop roots

Highlights include:

• The journey from transient programs to a permanent brick-and-mortar space
• How Hip Hop practices naturally incorporate social-emotional learning
• The importance of evolving from "old head" to "OG" mentality
• Exciting plans for adult classes and multigenerational engagement

Whether you're an educator, parent, nonprofit administrator, or Hip Hop enthusiast, this conversation offers valuable insights into using Hip Hop music and Hip Hop culture for positive change.

Ozay shares inspiring stories of impact, discusses the challenges of running a Hip Hop nonprofit, and explains why "Hip Hop is best served locally."

Learn how All of the Above Hip Hop Academy is creating unexpected connections and fostering critical thinking skills through beats, rhymes, and community spirit.

https://www.alloftheabovehiphop.org/

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

• The groundbreaking TTM system for notating DJ techniques
• How TTM is revolutionizing Hip Hop education globally
• The intersection of turntablism with physics, geometry, and mathematics
• The importance of DJ literacy in modern music education
• Insights into the Lyrical Transcription Methodology for rap

DJ Raedawn shares his journey from designing TTM to its widespread adoption in schools and among world-class DJs. Learn about the challenges and triumphs in bringing academic rigor to turntablism and Hip Hop culture.

Perfect for DJs, music educators, Hip Hop enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the science behind the art of turntablism. Don't miss this in-depth discussion on the past, present, and future of DJ notation and hip-hop education.

#Turntablism #HipHopEducation #DJNotation #MusicTheory #TTM

For more on DJ Raedawn: https://www.ttm.ninja

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

The program introduced activities such as using AI and haptic vests for music, podcasting, and creating beats, aiming to make STEM education more engaging and accessible.

The conversation addressed the broader applications of Hip Hop in education, therapy, and conflict resolution. Travis mentioned, "Hip Hop culture is an enormous, rich archive that can help individuals and communities heal, thrive, and innovate."

Both Manny Faces and Raphael Travis emphasized the importance of Hip Hop in fostering life skills and bridging generational gaps, while also discussing Travis's upcoming book on youth violence prevention. This episode offered a deep dive into the potential of Hip Hop to inspire and educate the younger generation.

If you value this work, please support at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

SHOW LINKS

https://www.rutgersuniversitypress.org/the-future-of-youth-violence-prevention/9781978833777/

https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/healing-power-of-hip-hop-9781440831300/

https://www.mixcloud.com/raphael-travis/

The LIVESTREAM SHOW airs Mondays, 9pm ET on YouTube - Watch/Subscribe at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

---

In this enlightening episode of "Hip Hop Can Save America," host Manny Faces dives deep into the transformative power of Hip Hop in education with distinguished guests Dr. Lauren Kelly and Dr. Daren Graves. Both scholars are co-editors of the groundbreaking "Bloomsbury Handbook of Hip Hop Pedagogy," aiming to establish authentic guidelines for the implementation of hip hop education in classrooms.

Key talking points include the importance of engaging young people through Hip Hop culture and the role of Hip Hop sensibilities in innovative research methodologies. As Dr. Graves explains, “Using Hip Hop sensibilities like rap, rupture, and mixing as a way to approach research can truly revolutionize academic methodologies.” Dr. Kelly adds, “We need to validate the work of doctoral students authentically entrenched in Hip Hop culture; it’s about questioning institutional indoctrination and creating spaces for authentic learning.” For those eager to rethink educational frameworks and make their classrooms more inclusive and connected to the culture, this episode is a must-watch!

The Bloomsbury Handbook of Hip Hop Pedagogy: https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/bloomsbury-handbook-of-hip-hop-pedagogy-9781350331815/

Teaching With Hip Hop in the 7-12 Grade Classroom: https://www.routledge.com/Teaching-with-Hip-Hop-in-the-7-12-Grade-Classroom-A-Guide-to-Supporting-Students-Critical-Development-Through-Popular-Texts/Kelly/p/book/9781032258010

HHYRA Conference: https://sites.google.com/view/hhyraconference/home

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

The LIVESTREAM SHOW air Mondays, 9pm ET - Subscribe at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

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In this compelling video essay, or "Mannyfesto," Manny Faces unpacks the complexities behind high-profile Hip Hop-related initiatives that seem beneficial on the surface but often reveal deeper, problematic issues upon closer examination.

It's a call for viewers to critically evaluate the true impact of these events on the Hip Hop community and society at large. From Jay-Z / Roc Nation's involvement in educational programs to Swizz Beatz and Timbaland's Verzuz partnership with Elon Musk's X platform, Manny breaks down why not everything that glitters is gold in Hip Hop.

#HipHop #CriticalThinking #MainstreamMedia #HipHopMedia #Misinformation #Disinformation #RussellSimmons #PDiddy #UniversalHipHopMuseum #Lecrae #LoveAndHipHop #Questlove #JayZ #RocNation #SchoolChoice #VoucherPrograms #EducationalReform #PublicSchools #CharterSchools #ElonMusk #Twitter #XPlatform #SwissBeats #Timberland #VerzuzPlatform #SchoolFunding #LuxuryBranding #DigitalCampaigning #RightWingAgenda #FakeNews #SocialJustice

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

The conversation will delve into the core principles of Hip Hop education, which emphasize the intrinsic knowledge and empowerment rooted in Hip Hop culture. The guests reveal how integrating scholarship with culture promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and reimagines the education system. Through firsthand insights, learn about the perseverance and resistance necessary to overcome societal and political challenges, and the undeniable qualitative impact of this movement in sparking change and providing a sense of belonging for students across diverse backgrounds.

#hiphopeducation #hiphopculture #educationsystem #teachingwithhiphop #hiphoppedagogy #multiculturaleducation #hiphopevents #hiphoped #hiphop #hiphopcansaveamerica #progressiveeducation #diversity #podcast #interview #education

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Dr. Boyd, whose latest book "Rapper's Deluxe: How Hip Hop Made the World" sheds light on Hip Hop's 50-year journey, discusses the genre's origins in the urban decay of 1970s New York, influenced by blaxploitation films, Richard Pryor's comedy, and the distinctive styles of returning Vietnam veterans -- and takes us through the next few decades as the genre and culture go on to reach global influence.

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

They delve into Microsoft's Responsible AI framework, which aims to address biases and promote diversity in AI projects, initiatives like Microsoft's TEALS program and workshops in collaboration with iconic organizations, such as the Harlem Globetrotters and The Hip Hop Museum, making a significant impact on diverse youth communities through STEAM education and coding using tools like Microsoft MakeCode and Minecraft Education Edition.

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

In this captivating episode of Hip Hop Can Save America!, host Manny Faces and guest Dr. Jian Jones delve into the innovative ways Hip Hop culture is reshaping the field of occupational therapy. Dr. Jones, an assistant professor at Florida A&M University, shares her groundbreaking approach to integrating Hip Hop themes into the occupational therapy curriculum.

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Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Is Hip Hop really "truly dead," or is Questlove's knee-jerk statement causing more harm than good to the culture he claims to care about?

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Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Meet Chosen Zulu King PRiZM, a seasoned Hip Hop Cultural Specialist & Youth Mentor with over 30 years of experience. His journey includes 25 years in motivational speaking, management, marketing, sales, training & development, community outreach, and youth mentorship. As the co-founder of Chosen Zulu and founder of Chosen Networks and Chosen Coaching and Consulting, PRiZM focuses on Hip Hop advocacy, youth mentoring, and young entrepreneur assistance.

Using tenets of Hip Hop culture to help bring out the best in individuals and families, PRiZM's mission is to help you be CHOSEN.

www.chosenhiphop.com

#youthempowerment #hiphop #culture #personaldevelopment

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Realizing that while music is subjective, popular rap certainly doesn't represent the depth of Hip Hop's total social, cultural or creative ethos. However, calling attention to this distinction (as many do), making different music (as many do), or trying to fight for change within the music/radio/streaming businesses (as many do) -- while worthy and necessary work -- isn't where the real solution lies.

#hiphopmusic #hiphopradio #hiphopculture

---

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

We learn about about Y?'s philosophy on learning and his non-hierarchical approach to teaching, which he calls "cypher pedagogy." The episode touches on his ability to merge passion with purpose, his experience in nurturing young talent in underserved communities, and the establishment of his company, Creative Expressions, which seeks to enhance the careers of fellow musicians, artists, and educators.

https://www.creativeexpressions.co

#hiphop #activism #podcast #artivism #cipherpedagogy #creativity #community #education #hiphopculture #independentartistry #innovation #intergenerational #reflection #selfmotivation #youthempowerment

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Manny and DIVINE delve into the transferable skills between street life and the corporate world and the importance of financial literacy for those re-entering society post-incarceration. Quotes like, "We're bringing financial literacy to the forefront of reintegration," and discussions about Solvent's partnership with Visa showcase the practical steps being taken towards financial inclusion. This episode provides a grounded look at how Hip Hop culture can influence and elevate underserved communities through technology and finance.

https://www.justsolvent.com

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Seeing a need to intertwine cultural relevance with learning, Jamila created "We Do It 4 the Culture," a groundbreaking social and emotional learning program. This curriculum speaks to students from grades 6 to 12, drawing on the rich tapestry of Hip Hop to engage and inspire, while promoting the social and emotional well-being of youth.

www.wedoit4theculture.com

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

"As We Speak: Rap Music on Trial" - https://www.paramountplus.com/movies/video/9U_dxaJfRRUDdqsF9z0Q3fHN42XMUMoM/

Director J.M. Harper - https://www.jmharper.com/

Kemba - https://kembaland.bandcamp.com/track/hear-no-evil

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

From activism to self-help to leadership, her book "The Hip Hop Mindset: Success Strategies for Educators and Other Professionals," explores Hip Hop an an unsung hero of professional success.

Can the principles of this vibrant culture truly propel you to greatness? Join us for a trailblazing dialogue that might just change the way you see the rhythm of life.

#HipHopMindset #leadership #selfhelp

GUEST LINK: http://www.tobyjenkins.net/

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

REGISTER: https://wsmamusic.org/4th-annual-hip-hop-pedagogy-for-music-educators/

In this excerpt from "Hip Hop Can Save America," Manny Faces chats with Randy Swiggum about the upcoming workshop featuring nine power-packed sessions for music educators. They delve into the legacy of the late Jarritt Sheel and his groundbreaking ideas on how Hip Hop can -- and should -- intersect with traditional music education. The two discuss the importance of incorporating Black joy and culture into the classroom, along with the inclusion of other elements of Hip Hop, such as dance and beat-making, in the education space. The session also touches on the significant impact of movement and dance in music education, emphasizing the inclusive and welcoming nature of Hip Hop culture.

The workshop is presented by the Wisconsin Music Educators Association.

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

The conversation also highlights her website, The Gumbo, which is dedicated to sharing untold stories about women and the issues important to them. This engaging discussion is a must-listen for those passionate about the evolution of Hip Hop and women's impact on the genre.

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Some key topics covered:

1. Hip Hop Beyond Music: Cultural Diversity

- Embracing the multifaceted aspects of Hip Hop culture, including dance, visual art, and storytelling traditions.

2. Hip Hop Origins: Sociological Significance

- Exploring the historical and sociological roots of Hip Hop, examining its impact on communities and social dynamics.

3. Hip Hop Education: Engagement Through Culture

- Using Hip Hop culture as a tool to connect with and engage students, fostering inclusivity and understanding.

GUEST LINKS:

Dr. Jason Rawls, OSU: https://music.osu.edu/people/rawls.5

J. Rawls on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jrawls82

BOOK: "Youth, Culture, Power" - https://www.amazon.com/Youth-Culture-Power-Teacher-Student-Relationships/dp/1433171252

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

ON YOUTUBE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/watch

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

In any event, what started out as PythonMC and is now called breakbeatcode, is one of my favorite intersections of Hip Hop, technology, education and youth. I’ll let my guests break it down, but I promise, once you hear about it, you’ll definitely be intrigued -- once you SEE it, you’ll probably be blown away.

I’ve been honored to keynote and mentor at their events in the past, and whenever I’m in conversation, giving a talk, or conducting teacher development workshops and I’m talking about ways that Hip Hop can help level the playing field and increase innovation across the board -- but also where it’s needed the most, it’s one of the first examples I give.

Here’s my talk with Richard Achee and Calvin Pinney from Google and breakbeatcode.

#hiphop #education #technology #news #computerscience #programming #coding #youth #youthempowerment #socialjustice #podcast #hhcsa #hiphopnews

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

2018’s "City of Lies" starred Johnny Depp and Forest Whitaker. It told the story, up until that point. A story which included many things that have been rumored over the years -- orders from Suge Knight, a hitman, and in between, crooked LAPD cops. "City of Lies," which was produced by Sikorski, was just the start.

The web of deceit, corruption, and coverup that surrounds this case reaches high into state and federal government, and involves more characters and plot twists than anyone can keep track of. Well, almost anyone.

In his podcast "The Dossier," now in its second season, Sikorski continues the hunt for the truth, and with exclusive documents in his possession, he seems to be able to do so in ways others can’t. 

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Dr. Travis takes us on a journey through the unique importance of Hip Hop to help society, particularly communities of color, highlighting the empowering narratives that consistently appear in Hip Hop culture: esteem, resilience, growth, community, and social change. These narratives provide a vital purpose for individuals to explore self-identity, cope with adversity, and make crucial decisions.

We further explore the use of Hip Hop concepts in therapy and mental health work, particularly in school settings. Dr. Travis emphasizes the transformative potential of using Hip Hop culture as a platform for self-expression and giving young people a voice. He also delves into the role of technology in music creation and its empowering effect on individuals.

Join us as Dr. Travis challenges traditional curriculum-focused approaches and encourages educators and practitioners to embrace the richness and flexibility of Hip Hop culture, as we hear how this genre can be harnessed as a powerful tool for inclusion, healing, and personal growth in schools and beyond.

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

Dr. Raphael Travis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raptjr

SHOW WEBSITE: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

As one of his bars predicted, Masta Ace’s rapping did stay with us for a while. A long while. Now 32 years since the release of his debut full-length Take A Look Around, Masta Ace has a discography that surpasses most of his peers, he's welcomed in a second wave of a career after deciding to shed the confines of the music industry, and has now parlayed his prolific storytelling style to the stage, with the development of a musical, The Falling Season, in association with Hip Hop Theater production company, Rhymes Over Beats.

And there’s no way around it, these feats are made even more impressive by the fact that the Brooklyn-bred wordsmith has been battling Multiple Sclerosis for two decades.

The Capital A was gracious enough to discuss all of these topics with me, as we both took a look around at as good an example of longevity in rap as there is.

My name is Manny Faces. Here’s my talk with Masta Ace.

--

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITES:

https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer McCoy.

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

SHOW WEBSITES:

https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer.

--------------------------

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

EPISODE LINKS:

News Beat: https://newsbeat.substack.com

UNFTR: https://www.unftr.com

SHOW WEBSITES:

https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org/podcast

https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer.

A.D. provides brilliant insight on this intersection, as well as other ways Hip Hop music and culture should be valued -- both inside and outside of the classroom.

#hiphop #education #culture

--------------------------

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

EPISODE LINKS:

AyDeeTheGreat: https://www.aydeethegreat.com

A.D. on IG: https://www.instagram.com/aydeethegreat

SHOW WEBSITES:

https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org/podcast

https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer.

--------------------------

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

EPISODE LINKS:

Word. Sound. Power. @ BAM: https://www.bam.org/word-sound-power-2023

Mikal Amin on IG: www.instagram.com/mikalamin_frm

Words, Beats & Life: https://www.wblinc.org

SHOW WEBSITES:

https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org/podcast

https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

MANNY FACES: https://www.mannyfaces.com

NEWSLETTER (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS:

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, smacked, flipped, rubbed down, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer.

--

Dark money, billionaire financiers, and a relentless digital machine designed specifically to 'mold' impressionable youth to adopt a right wing ideology are finding new, previously unreachable targets -- through Hip Hop.

--------------------------

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in conjunction with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

Show website: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Manny Faces: https://www.mannyfaces.com

Newsletter (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer.

Under the leadership of founding executive director, Mazi Mutafa, WBL has created something of a blueprint for how a Hip Hop-based non-profit should operate. While they are primarily focused on the Washington D.C. area, it's clear that their impact has been felt far and wide.

On the cusp of their 7th Words, Beats & Life Festival, Mazi joined Manny Faces for a conversation about all of these evolutions and revolutions.

--------------------------

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in conjunction with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

Show website: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Manny Faces: https://www.mannyfaces.com

Newsletter (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Consulting Producer, Sommer.

Mentioned in this episode:

Sponsor shoutout

Hear how the streets of New York City -- and of Europe -- helped Zeps maintain his connection to Hip Hop culture, and deliver it to the delight of audiences all across the globe.

https://www.instagram.com/zepstergram

https://www.rhymosaurs.com

--------------------------

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in conjunction with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

Show website: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Manny Faces: https://www.mannyfaces.com

Newsletter (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Associate Producer, Sommer.

Mentioned in this episode:

Sponsor shoutout

Helping propel this latest Hip Hop theater extravaganza to acclaim is composer and lyricist Rona Siddiqui. Rona is a Grammy-nominated Composer/Lyricist/Music Director from New York, a recipient of the Jonathan Larson Grant, Billie Burke Ziegfeld Award, and was named one of Broadway Women's Fund's Women to Watch.

Holding down the iconic title role, is Brittany Nicole Williams, an alumnus of The Ailey School and AMDA New York, who recently made her Broadway debut in Aladdin, and has performed in multiple 1st Broadway National Tours and regional theaters.

--------------------------

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in conjunction with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

Show website: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Manny Faces: https://www.mannyfaces.com

Newsletter (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Associate Producer, Sommer.

Mentioned in this episode:

Sponsor shoutout

A.V. Perkins is the co-founder and chief promoter of University of Dope, the card game and its various on and offline counterpart events. A.V., also a well-established do it yourself advocate who has has stints on HGTV, has watched her entrepreneurial baby grow, survive a pandemic, and, just recently, hit the shelves of none other than bullseye box store behemoth Target.

It sounds like a lot, but once you know A.V., you know that it’s likely only the beginning.

--------------------------

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in conjunction with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

Show website: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Manny Faces: https://www.mannyfaces.com

Newsletter (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, and distributed by Manny Faces.

Eternal thanks to Associate Producer, Sommer.

I wanted to give Jay the space to speak on his vision, the roadblocks and hurdles, and the progress of this community minded vision for the great borough of Brooklyn. As you’ll hear, sky’s the limit.

--------------------------

Hip-Hop Can Save America! with Manny Faces is a Manny Faces Media production, in conjunction with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy.

Links and resources:

Show website: https://www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Manny Faces: https://www.mannyfaces.com

Newsletter (free!): https://mannyfaces.substack.com

SUPPORT QUALITY INDIE HIP HOP JOURNALISM: https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Manny Faces Media (podcast production company): https://www.mannyfacesmedia.com

The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy: https://www.hiphopadvocacy.org

SPONSORS / FRIENDS

The Mixtape Museum: https://www.mixtapemuseum.org

Hip-Hop Hacks: https://www.hiphophacks.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is produced, written, edited, and distributed by Manny Faces. Special thanks to Associate Producer, Sommer.

This episode was written and produced before the tragic death of Migos rapper, Takeoff, yet ironically, this seismic event in the rap world plays very much into the theme of this episode, and we hope that it sparks direct, actionable value in what we are presenting.

---

To subscribe to our free newsletter with more stories of Hip Hop innovation, inspiration and insight, visit https://mannyfaces.substack.com

To support this podcast, the newsletter and other work advocating for the ability of Hip Hop music and culture to uplift humanity, visit https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

This program would be interesting in any setting, but, given my other work in the social justice field, it really caught my attention because the school, J.C. Montgomery, was a part of the Kings County Juvenile Center in Hanford, California.

Now, full disclosure. On one of the other podcasts I produce, News Beat, we have reported on the movement to close juvenile detention centers / youth prisons across the country, and of that movement I am a big fan. That being said, while they exist, I can think of no better way to help those within cope, express themselves, and learn the valuable life skills in the ways that only Hip Hop music and culture can deliver, than through the efforts of JC Montgomery principal Elizabeth Norris, longtime educator Ed Campos, and accomplished music artist, producer, filmmaker and director, Josh Levine, aka OPTX. 

After speaking with them, and viewing the project’s powerful video production “It’s Not 2 Late,” I felt confident that these students, in this institution, were being given a vital opportunity that would allow the world to appreciate their powerful voices, important messaging, brilliant perspectives, personal stories, and their style.

Click here to watch "It's Not 2 Late' on YouTube.

---

To subscribe to our free newsletter with more stories of Hip Hop innovation, inspiration and insight, visit https://mannyfaces.substack.com

To support this podcast, the newsletter and other work advocating for the ability of Hip Hop music and culture to uplift humanity, visit https://www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Find out a little bit more about this prolific Hip-Hop artist, DJ, educator and mentor as we share LiKWUiD's interview on the News Beat Cypher, in this special cross-feed episode drop.

--

Visit https://mannyfaces.substack.com for more smart, innovative, insightful and inspirational Hip-Hop related content.

We spoke on the verge of the second iteration of School of Thought, the second series of free workshops for rising and professional MCs led by the inimitable Black Thought, of the mighty Roots crew -- and the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. 

This masterclass is going on from April 4-7 and culminates in a public showcase at the Hall, followed the next day by Black Thought in conversation with young artists and fans. is just one of the many ways that Smith and the Weill Institute are emphatically, respectfully, and authentically incorporating Hip Hop into the programming at Carnegie Hall.

Now, before we get into it, more content like this is yours -- for free -- simply by signing up to my free Substack newsletter. Curated links to stories like these, innovative and inspiring examples of how Hip Hop culture can improve society, smart editorials, updates about my speaking calendar and more. Please sign up for the ‘Words I Mannyfest’ newsletter on substack, at mannyfaces.substack.com. Again, it’s free, but if you do choose to support my independent, high-level Hip-Hop related journalism, you have that option there as well.

Now, let’s get into it. Here’s my talk with LeBrandon Smith from Carnegie Hall.

--

Visit https://mannyfaces.substack.com for more smart, innovative, insightful and inspirational Hip-Hop related content.

I’m Manny Faces. Fans and friends know that whenever I’m presented with a societal issue, problem or disturbing trend, any suggestion I have as to how to solve it will include, in some form or fashion, Hip-Hop. 

Those who know we VERY well, also know that through my years on the planet, finance hasn’t always been my strong suit.

Similarly, financial literacy isn’t something that schools, or even families tend to focus on. Our relationship with money can be overwhelming, and this is especially true in communities that have been denied access to financial services, generational wealth, and overall financial opportunity.

Pockets Change exists to change ALL of that, helping young and old alike, from all walks of life, get a better understanding of money, how it shapes our behavior, how to conquer our fears, and work toward a stronger financial future.

And of course, they wouldn’t be on THIS show if there wasn’t a Hip Hop angle in the mix.

Now, before we get into it, I just want to let you all know that I’m making it easier for you to follow the Hip-Hop related content I produce, whether it’s this podcast, curating links to stories of interest, editorials, announcing speaking engagements and more. I’m putting that all under one roof so to speak -- Please sign up for the Words I Mannyfest newsletter on Substack, at mannyfaces.substack.com. It’s free, but if you do choose to support my independent, high-level Hip-Hop related journalism, you can do that there as well.

Now, let’s get into it. Here’s my talk with Andrea Ferrero of Pockets Change.

--

Follow on social media @hiphopadvocacy

Email us at hiphopadvocacy@gmail.com

For more smart Hip-Hop content like this mannyfaces.substack.com

Book a speaker - www.hiphopspeaker.com

HHCSA! is a Manny Faces Media production.

--

Follow on social media @hiphopadvocacy

Email us at hiphopadvocacy@gmail.com

Support the show at www.patreon.com/hiphopadvocacy

Book a speaker - www.hiphopspeaker.com

Sign up for the free newsletter www.hiphopadvocacy.org/newsletter

HHCSA! is a Manny Faces Media production.

--

Follow on social media @hiphopadvocacy

Email us at hiphopadvocacy@gmail.com

Support the show at www.patreon.com/hiphopadvocacy

Book a speaker - www.hiphopspeaker.com

Sign up for the free newsletter www.hiphopadvocacy.org/newsletter

HHCSA! is a Manny Faces Media production.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

For more information about our show, including how to support our high-quality, independent, smart Hip-Hop journalism, visit www.hiphopadvocacy.org/links

Hip-Hip Can Save America! is a Manny Faces Media production, in association with The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy

It’s the healing power of Hip-Hop.

It’s such a good phrase. Such a concise, complete explanation of why I care so much about spreading the good word about Hip-Hop’s potential to uplift humanity and improve society. The healing power of Hip-Hop.

Of course, only one of us actually wrote the book on the subject. Among a few other things you’ll hear about, Dr. Raphael Travis is a Professor and MSW Program Director at Texas State University in the School of Social Work and author of the book “The Healing Power of Hip Hop.” Dr. Travis and I spoke a little ways back about his work, his research and just how Hip-Hop is able to, well, heal.

Here’s my talk with Dr. Raphael Travis.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

For more information about our show, including how to support quality, independent, smart Hip-Hop journalism, visit www.hiphopadvocacy.org/links

In some ways, it was. But it’s so much more than that. See, this is what Hip-Hop therapy can look like. The concept and the program was showcased in the award-winning documentary short Mott Haven, exploring how this work was able to so effectively address grief and trauma in the wake of a school tragedy, and after having seen just a taste during my own visit, I wasn’t surprised in the least. 

So, after much too much time, I finally reached out to kick it with J.C. Hall about the program. Hall, a 2020 Jefferson Award winner for outstanding public service related to this work, broke down how the worlds of Hip-Hip and therapy can -- and should - combine. 

If you ask me, healing never sounded so good.

-----

Remember, if you like what we do, please take a moment to rate and review the show.  And if you feel so inclined, you can help support this show and other Hip-Hop and social justice related work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces.

Remember, if you like what we do, please take a moment to rate and review the show.  And if you feel so inclined, you can help support this show and other Hip-Hop and social justice related work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces.

Ellect also talks about his role as an educator, and as an artist that frequently works issues such as climate change and racial justice into his work.

Plus, fun fact: He’s related to someone you know. 

All in all, Ellect brings a ton to the table when it comes to demonstrating ways that Hip-Hop music and culture can be used to uplift humanity.

Remember, if you like what we do, please take a moment to rate and review the show.  And if you feel so inclined, you can help support this show and other Hip-Hop and social justice related work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces.

Our HQ: www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Review us! www.RateThisPodcast.com/hiphop

Support the show! www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

www.RateThisPodcast.com/hiphop

www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

www.mannyfaces.com

www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

www.ratethispodcast.com/hiphop

Timothy, who is currently a lecturer and Hip-Hop Scholar in Residence at Teachers College, Columbia University, details his path to Hip-Hop based education, how he e-stumbled into his #HipHopEd role, his company Techniques4Learning, and, as an ordained minister, how religion and spirituality blend into the mix.

www.RateThisPodcast.com/hiphop

LIVE at 1pm EST every Monday through Thursday in the month of September, join Manny Faces in exploring innovative, inspiring, and sometimes surprising ways that Hip-Hop music & culture are uplifting and improving humanity -- in areas such as education, science & technology, health & wellness, social justice, the fine arts, and much more.

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/live

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

LIVE at 1pm EST every Monday through Thursday in the month of September, 2020, join Manny Faces in exploring innovative, inspiring, and sometimes surprising ways that Hip-Hop music & culture are uplifting and improving humanity -- in areas such as education, science & technology, health & wellness, social justice, the fine arts, and much more.

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/live

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

LIVE at 1pm EST every Monday through Thursday in the month of September, join Manny Faces in exploring innovative, inspiring, and sometimes surprising ways that Hip-Hop music & culture are uplifting and improving humanity -- in areas such as education, science & technology, health & wellness, social justice, the fine arts, and much more.

Special guests daily, plus your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/live

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

LIVE at 1pm EST every Monday through Thursday in the month of September, join Manny Faces in exploring innovative, inspiring, and sometimes surprising ways that Hip-Hop music & culture are uplifting and improving humanity -- in areas such as education, science & technology, health & wellness, social justice, the fine arts, and much more.

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/live

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

LIVE at 1pm EST every Monday through Thursday in the month of September 2020, join Manny Faces in exploring innovative, inspiring, and sometimes surprising ways that Hip-Hop music & culture are uplifting and improving humanity -- in areas such as education, science & technology, health & wellness, social justice, the fine arts, and much more.

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/live

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Part of a special LIVE podcast series, broadcasting at 1pm EST every Monday through Thursday in the month of September, 2020. Join Manny Faces in exploring innovative, inspiring, and sometimes surprising ways that Hip-Hop music & culture are uplifting and improving humanity -- in areas such as education, science & technology, health & wellness, social justice, the fine arts, and much more.

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/live

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Hip-Hip Can Save America! LIVE is a month-long livestream series happening at 1pm EST every Monday through Thursday in the month of September. Join Manny Faces in exploring innovative, inspiring, and sometimes surprising ways that Hip-Hop music & culture are uplifting and improving humanity -- in areas such as education, science & technology, health & wellness, social justice, the fine arts, and much more.

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/live

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

LIVE at 1pm EST every Monday through Thursday in the month of September, join Manny Faces in exploring innovative, inspiring, and sometimes surprising ways that Hip-Hop music & culture are uplifting and improving humanity -- in areas such as education, science & technology, health & wellness, social justice, the fine arts, and much more.

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/live

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

The Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast is LIVE at 1pm EST every Monday through Thursday in the month of September. Join Manny Faces in exploring innovative, inspiring, and sometimes surprising ways that Hip-Hop music & culture are uplifting and improving humanity -- in areas such as education, science & technology, health & wellness, social justice, the fine arts, and much more.

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/live

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Today's guest is Lori Rose Benson, CEO and Executive Director of Hip Hop Public Health, a nonprofit that is "building health equity through the transformative power of music, art, and science."

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/live

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

This compelling podcast was awarded Best Journalism Podcast at the 2018 New York Press Club Journalism Awards, as well as the 2019 and 2020 Society of Professional Journalists/PCLI Awards.

This episode is part of the September 2020 LIVE episode series of "Hip-Hop Can Save America!"

LIVE at 1pm EST every Monday through Thursday in the month of September, join Manny Faces in exploring innovative, inspiring, and sometimes surprising ways that Hip-Hop music & culture are uplifting and improving humanity -- in areas such as education, science & technology, health & wellness, social justice, the fine arts, and much more.

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/live

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Today's guest, Mikal Amin, has worked with institutions, organizations, often with youth, in many countries throughout the world, and is an artist, teacher, and Hip-Hop pedagogy advocate.

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/live

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

LIVE at 1pm EST every Monday through Thursday in the month of September, join Manny Faces in exploring innovative, inspiring, and sometimes surprising ways that Hip-Hop music & culture are uplifting and improving humanity -- in areas such as education, science & technology, health & wellness, social justice, the fine arts, and much more.

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/live

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com/live

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Would that sound amazing?

What if, at the same time, it sounded amazing?

Freestyle (as in impromptu, made-up-on-the-spot) rap practitioner and instructor David “BS” Bradshaw has not only excelled at this incredibly creative and exciting subset of rap, but has developed an astounding assortment of initiatives that take this artform and its associated skillsets to the next level.

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Today's guest, Adum7 (fka Ravage, fka MechaGodzilla), a multi-faceted artist/producer with a storied career in independent Hip-Hop spanning the world, speaking about music making, healthy eating, and evolving artistry over time.

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

On today's episode, MC, educator, podcaster, and multi-faceted artist Dyalekt speaks about his latest project, The Museum of Dead Words, as well as Hip-Hop theater in general, exploring the use of language & etymology through a Hip-Hop lens, and his work with financial literacy organization, Pockets Change.

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

LIVE at 1pm EST every Monday through Thursday in the month of September, join Manny Faces in exploring innovative, inspiring, and sometimes surprising ways that Hip-Hop music & culture are uplifting and improving humanity -- in areas such as education, science & technology, health & wellness, social justice, the fine arts, and much more.

Special guests daily, and your comments/questions welcome during the show!

Our scheduled guest on this inaugural episode, award-winning News Beat podcast artist in residence, Innocence Project ambassador, frontman for the incredible Band Called FUSE, and all-around cool cat, SILENT KNIGHT!

Never miss an episode (plus get special Friday BONUS episodes) by subscribing to the Hip-Hop Can Save America! podcast on your favorite podcast or streaming audio app: https://link.chtbl.com/hhcsa

Visit us on the web for more information at www.hiphopcansaveamerica.com

Support this work at www.patreon.com/mannyfaces

And if you are the type to consider its literary qualities, the same could be said about its immense spectrum of subject matter. Indeed, Hip-Hop easily rivals most traditional literary movements in its ability to encapsulate so much of the human condition within its linguistic art.

When done right, these artistic conglomerates can be creative, inventive, inspiring, and help build intellectual and musical bridges. Think Hamilton’s merging of Hip-Hop and traditional American musical. Or Guru’s Jazzamatazz series. 

With all of this though, there are still certain combinations that, to many, are simply too much oil and water. Too incompatible. You won’t hear a lot of Polka Rap after all.

Country music was once considered this sort of Hip-Hop antithesis. Musically it’s not impossible -- generally a 4/4 style of music, more influenced by pop these days -- it COULD be done… Perhaps the perceived divides -- both in musical taste and often, ideology-- between the demographics of the fans of each of these respective genre made the idea less tolerable than say, rap and rock.

Also, attempts at mashing up rap and rock have, for a variety of reasons, been traditionally well-received. 

Rap and country, not so much.

Credit is due, of course, to Lil Nas X and Billy Ray Cyrus for re-opening this door, and though seen to many as a bit gimmicky, the effect on the zeitgeist was unquestionable.

Still, in such a polarized world, can there exist a true merging of Hip-Hop and Country -- or even its more traditional subgenre, Bluegrass. 

One that doesn’t try to sugarcoat those ideological differences between fanbases. One that is unafraid to forcefully address even the most sensitive social justice issues, as Hip-Hop is wont to do, uncompromising even in the face of potentially unwelcoming audiences.

But one that does so with the kind of musical authenticity that will influence fans of the genre to open their ears to those messages, and arms to those messengers.

Gangstagrass says hell yea, and an enthusiastic fanbase on both sides of the musical aisle, agree. 

This fusion band is masterminded by singer-songwriter, guitarist and producer Rench, features banjo playing by Dan “Danjo” Whitener, fiddle playing by Brian “B” Farrow, and lyrical prowess from two MCs, R-Son and Dolio The Sleuth.

On the eve of their new single release “Ain’t No Crime,” and a month ahead of their new album, “No Time For Enemies, I spoke at length with B Farrow, R-Son and Dolio to discuss the way their formula for tackling this fabled combination of style and substance can, and should, be taken seriously, perhaps now more than ever.

My name is Manny Faces. This is my conversation with Gangstagrass.

Luckily, there are exceptional people who study education -- whose job it is to examine and measure the effectiveness of educators and educational systems in the country. They conduct research, they develop ideas, they train other teachers.

Over the past few years, many of them point to a powerful tool that has long been shown to increase capabilities of students across all grade levels and demographics, and particularly among those traditionally underrepresented groups. And while we’re still waiting to see how potentially drastic changes to the educational system as a whole will play out, this tool remains as potent as before -- perhaps more than ever.

In April, 2019, as it had been doing for the previous two years, that tool was on full, glorious display at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, in a day-long exploration and celebration of Hip-Hop based Education attended by education professionals and students from all levels ...

It exemplified the incredible potential that sits at the intersection of education and the arts, particularly the undisputed youth culture champion of the world. Hip-hop.

Full-length, in in-depth interviews with individuals and organizations using Hip-Hop music and culture to uplift humanity are super important, and I'm honored to be able to do them. I have a bunch more on the way, but in the meantime, there are so many examples of innovative and inspiring events, news items, discussions, calls for papers, and all kinds of information that I think followers of this show would love to hear about, so I'm kicking off Mini-Eps to do just that. They'll also be available as videos on my social media platforms as well, to make sure the most people possible can find out about these Hip-Hop treats.

Follow me on Twitter www.twitter.com/MannyFaces and our org at www.twitter.com/HipHopAdvocacy and tell us what YOU'D like to hear more about when it comes to innovative uses of Hip-Hop, and let me know what you think about these more frequent, information-packed mini-episodes. Thanks for your time and support!

A lot of our episodes delve into the wide world of hip-hop education. I’ve seen so many examples of how hip-hop music, culture, spirit, and perspective can lift up our young people in educational settings, so I will definitely continue to sing the praises of hip-hop based education.

Recently, however, a journal article caught my eye, titled, “When Keeping It Real Goes Wrong: Enacting Critical Pedagogies of Hip-Hop in Mainstream Schools.” It was written by Dr. Don C. Sawyer III of Quinnipiac University and Dr. Lauren Leigh Kelly, Assistant Professor in the Urban Social Justice Teacher Education program at Rutgers University’s Graduate School of Education. I’ve known Dr. Kelly for a minute, and thought her contribution to the article represents a very important facet of Hip-hop based education. Sometimes, we focus so much on the victories, we don’t pay enough attention to when keeping it real, goes wrong, and if we are truly looking for long-term, effective ways to advocate for hip-hop in schools, it’s equally important to pay attention to how we can make these interactions the best they can be.

I wanted to know more, and Lauren graciously agreed to come on the show to discuss it in a bit more detail. We also spoke about the incredible Hip-Hop Youth Research and Activism Conference, a student-led event that she founded, which will host its next iteration this May.

Here’s my talk with Dr. Lauren Leigh Kelly.

Ben Merlis saw that the story of this legacy was worthy of proper documentation, and has woven together a fascinating look at the inner workings of these game changers in his new book Goin’ Off: The Story of the Juice Crew & Cold Chillin’ Records.

Under the occasional rumble of a passing subway train, I spoke with Ben at the Powerhouse Arena bookstore in Brooklyn, New York just before an author talkback session with the public that also featured Juice Crew members Masta Ace and Craig G.

Here’s my conversation with Ben Merlis.

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is brought to you by The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy and is produced by Manny Faces Media.

For more about Python MC, visit pythonmc.trinket.io. Also, Rapport Studios creates #engaging & #immersive #learningexperiences harnessing the power of #tech, #media, & #pedagogy to scale empathy & inspire humanity. Visit them at www.rapportstudios.com

Hip-Hop Can Save America! is brought to you by The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy, dedicated to PRESERVING, PROTECTING, AND PROMOTING THE ABILITY OF HIP-HOP MUSIC, CULTURE, AND SPIRIT TO IMPROVE HUMANITY, FIGHT INJUSTICE, INNOVATE INDUSTRIES, AND SAVE LIVES.

If you have a product, service, or story you want to get out to a rapidly growing audience of people like you, you can sponsor this podcast. We also accept tax-deductible donations to help make these podcasts and our other work possible. Visit www.hiphopadvocacy.org to learn more, contact us, or contribute.

The show is produced by Manny Faces through the award-winning podcast and audio journalism production studio, Manny Faces Media, producers of acclaimed social justice journalism podcast News Beat, as well as several other shows from across the worlds of business, marketing, culture, and more. Visit us at www.mannyfacesmedia.com

But like a tornado, the ruckus seems to have disappeared as quickly as it came.

I think we should be continuing to bring the ruckus.

Brought to you by The Center for Hip-Hop Advocacy and produced by Manny Faces Media

Tierney is a passionate advocate for hip-hop based education, and often writes and speaks on these topics, as well as the overall effectiveness of the Flocabulary program, and I was thrilled that she took time out to speak to me about how their brand of hip-hop education can mean so much more than just being able to pass a test.

Dr. Hunt developed and teaches a Sociology of Hip-Hop Culture course at the University of North Alabama, and while she is very much involved with the regional hip-hop community, what I really like about her course and her work, is that she is bringing hip-hop into a school with a predominantly white student body -- and in a quote unquote “red state” to boot.

Of course, we’ve seen educators using hip-hop in urban and predominant minority settings with great success, but I was curious to hear about Dr. Hunt’s experience merging hip-hop studies in this setting. And as I mentioned, Dr. Hunt also does a great job at extending her connection to hip-hop way past the walls of her classroom, using the culture and associated artform to improve lives in the communities where it’s needed most.

All in all, I think you’ll be as inspired as I was to hear how she is using hip-hop to inform and inspire folks from all walks of life, in ways that I think can help contribute to an increase in cross-cultural understanding, and help repair some of the damage that has been done to our collective social fabric.

But what not enough people know, is that Hamilton is not a one-off. Hip-hop and live theater have a history that far proceeds and expands way past Lin Manuel Miranda’s hit show.

In this episode, I speak with one of the innovators who has been rocking hip-hop theater for well over a decade in a very unique way -- merging intellectually deep, topical dives with beat, rhymes and performative art.

From Climate change to evolution to religion to how the brain actually works, Baba Brinkman pens and performs incredibly memorable experiences pairing hip-hop music and culture with the most complex issues of our time, and does so with brilliance, humor, and a universal appeal that stretches from the block to Broadway.

Sage details the core offerings of this groundbreaking program, and talks about how hip-hop music and lyrics can help students better understand complex literary works.

He’s taught master classes, led workshops, lectured, published essays, produced and curated events, and most important, stood right by the sides of young people from all walks of life, helping them find their best selves through poetry, rap and music.

Levy, who has been recognized for piloting the development, implementation, and evaluation of a Hip Hop based counseling framework in urban schools, examines mental health practices in those schools, interrogating the role of the school counselor and other school staff to ensure the emotional lives of young people are adequately addressed.

His work has been featured on CNN and in the New York Times.

But most important. He has used hip-hop to help kids. Lots of them.

Manny and Dr. Love speak about hip-hop in educational settings, as well as Dr. Love's recent work in the field of "hip-hop civics."