RVANews

The Cheats Movement Previews Stone Soul 2015

Marc Cheatham — Wed, 03 Jun 2015 16:00:08 +0000

Stone Soul is this Saturday! THIS SATURDAY!!! Jodeci! Faith Evans! Future! Biz Markie!? Marc Cheatham previews.This Saturday (June 6th) marks the 11th Annual Stone Soul Music and Food Festival at the Richmond Raceway Complex. Stone Soul is one of Richmond's premier music and food festivals, geared toward fans of gospel, hip-hop, and R&B. Stone Soul is part food festival, part music revival (the covered raceway gives it a big tent feeling), and part family reunion. Since the Radio One network stretches across several local radio stations: iPower 92.1, KISS FM, and Praise 104.7 FM, being some of the biggest, Richmonders will be able to see some of their favorite radio personalities like Community Clovia, Paris Nicole, King Tutt, Sheilah Belle, and Cam Cooper all working together for the event.

This year's music line-up is R&B heavy with a focus towards a more mature audience (35 and up), yet there are a couple artists that will appeal to the below 30 crowd (namely Future, Migos, and August Alsina). Here is a breakdown of the music headliners at Stone Soul 2015.

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Jodeci (The Wild Card)

There is no other way to say it, Jodeci is back. They have a new album, The Past, The Present, The Future, new video, and their first Adult R&B number one single in 22 years. But the reason that I'm calling Jodeci the Wild Card of this year's festival is because no one cares about the new material, not one bit. Jodeci fans long for the past and want to know if they can deliver the hits that made them famous. I'm talking about "Come and Talk To Me," I'm talking about "Forever My Lady," I'm talking about classics. If they can deliver those with the same talent and passion of 1992, then we will be in good hands. If not, we may have a problem.

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Faith Evans (The Rock)

Well, 1992 fans, just in case we get the Jodeci that has Mr. Dalvin singing lead (yes, it has happened and not too long ago) there is still a 1990s hit maker for you that I know will be solid as a rock. The former First Lady of Bad Boy Records, Faith Evans will be at Stone Soul to deliver her hits like "You Use To Love Me" and "Soon As I Get Home." There is no doubt in my mind that Faith will be as solid as Jodeci will be unpredictable. If you were born a fan of 90s R&B, this is your section of the show. The only question I have is: where is Total?

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Future (Eye Candy for the Ladies)

This year Future returns to the Soul Stone stage. He also has a new album Honest and one of the hottest (and most remixed) songs of the summer "Commas." I saw Future rock the Stone Soul stage in 2013, and it was there that I saw just how much appeal he has with the ladies. Back then, most of Future's popular songs included features by rappers that were not in Richmond, therefore, he really couldn't complete a full song. I'm certain his set will be more complete this year as he has now showed the ability to carry songs on his own.

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August Alsina (Eye Candy for the even Younger Ladies)

The 22-year-old Def Jam recording artist from NOLA has truly taking the industry by storm. Along with Ty-Dollar Sign, Alsina became the first R&B singer to ever be included on XXL's freshman cover, expanding the field from 10 to 12. His debut album Testimony, released in April of last year, has gone platinum. And he won Best New Artist of 2014 at the BET Awards. He's got a loyal legion of young, mostly female, fans and shows no signs of slowing down. He recently has been doing tour dates with Virginia's own wild man Chris Breezy. We'll see what he has in store for the RVA crowd.

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James Fortune (Gospel heavyweight)

Two-time Grammy-award-winning gospel artist and radio host James Fortune will perform songs from his new album Live Through It. For those who don't know, the gospel portion of the festival is normally one of the most powerful. I'll never forget two years ago when Tamela Mann shut down the entire raceway with "Take Me To The King." Fortune is more than equipped to have church on a Saturday.

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Other notable acts included: hip-hop pioneer and popular DJ Biz Markie, Atlanta trap rap stars Migos, and my pick to steal the entire show, Rare Essence with DJ Kool. Tickets are still available at ETIX.com and at Richmond DTLR locations.

As always, I'm looking forward to an inspiring day of music, food, and family. The community connection as Stone Soul is a positive aspect that is often overlooked and impossible to describe. Every year, I witness the connections of friends that haven't seen each other in years, strangers are not strangers by the end of the 7 hour event, and you leave anticipating the next you can get together. Stone Soul is a annual must-attend event for the Richmond community. #WESEEIT

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Check the Rhyme: So RVA Fest

Marc Cheatham — Fri, 28 Sep 2012 10:57:36 +0000

On Saturday, I covered the inaugural So RVA Fest at the National. The event was definitely an experiment in RVA diversity.

The organizer, Moss United, did some good things. The hip hop line-up was strong: Bravo, Big League, Black Liquid with the New Juice Crew, S.I.C., and Noah-O with his crew Charged Up Ent. It was a lineup that The Cheats Movement Blog would have been really proud to showcase.

So RVA Fest also did a really good job working with sponsors. I work with West Coast Kix, and prior to the event I know we were all impressed with the details and planning by the So RVA Fest team. The event benefitted the Virginia Special Olympics, so of course, any money to help benefit that organization is a great thing--it was good to see the event have a real philanthropic aspect to it.

The diversity of the audience and the overall crowd size was outstanding for a first-time event at the National. I’ve seen a lot of local hip hop shows, and Saturday’s crowd was impressive.

I won’t harp on suggested improvements because I do believe the event was a good one. That said, it was clear that the late-arrivers were more of a “dance party” crowd as opposed to a hip hop crowd. That was not the problem--it was great to see that diversity. But it appeared to me that the hip hop portion of the show was cut short in order to get the dance party started. This resulted in shorter sets from Charged Up and S.I.C and (worst of all) kept Noah O from making it to the stage. As a true fan of RVA hip hop, I think that was a missed opportunity.

With that said, I’m excited to see what Moss United and the So Fresh RVA team has planned moving forward. Events like the So RVA Fest are the future of a more cultured and inclusive RVA--the challenge is making it all work! I strongly support the effort and idea.

Here are the Cheats Movement photos from Saturday.

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Bandelaro

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Black Liquid

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Bravo

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Destiny Da Chef

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Emphasys

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J Nero & Streetz Deep

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Lela Bizz

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Noah O & Charged Up

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TMac - Big League

PHOTOS: SlutWalk Richmond

Marc Cheatham — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 11:08:55 +0000

Photos from RVA's first SlutWalk. Richmonder's gathered in Monroe Park and walked to Byrd Park to bring awareness to sexual assault and victim blaming. See more photos over on The Cheats Movement site.

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This weekend’s SlutWalk raises awareness of sexual assault; RVANews

Check the Rhyme: 10th Annual Happily Natural Day

Marc Cheatham — Tue, 28 Aug 2012 13:28:36 +0000

Last weekend I broke out the Cheats Movement camera to cover a significant milestone in RVA’s arts and culture: the 10th Anniversary of Happily Natural Day Festival.

Happily Natural Day is an African-centered business and craft trade expo. The mission is to promote holistic health, cultural awareness, and social change in the African-American community. A three-day celebration, Happily Natural Day is also dedicated to promoting conscious hip hop, soul music, and spoken word, even featuring fashion and natural hair exhibitions.

Founded by Duron Chavis while at the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia in 2003, this year’s event celebrated 10 years of Happily Natural Day events with the theme A Decade of Self Determination. It featured the first ever Natural Awards, honoring excellence in holistic health and beauty.

Happily Natural Day also linked up with their long-time friends at Tuesday Verses--who are celebrating 10 years of success in RVA--for the Happily Natural Day Concert featuring Grammy-nominated rapper, singer, songwriter, producer Phonte of Foreign Exchange, and formerly of Little Brother.

I was able to capture some photos from the afternoon trade show and the epic concert Saturday night. While this year’s celebration is over, Happily Natural Day Events continue all year with great community projects like the Richmond Noir Market and the McDonough Community Garden.

For more information on Happily Natural Day activities and future events, please visit: www.happilynaturalday.com.

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Check the Rhyme: A Great Day in Richmond

Marc Cheatham — Tue, 24 Jul 2012 11:24:58 +0000

It maybe cliché, but I believe that most, if not all, positive change starts with good people coming together. Bringing people together has been one of my life missions. There is something special about diverse people coming together in a group setting to learn from each other and enjoy each other’s company and talent. When I started the Cheats Movement Blog in January of 2011, I didn’t have a specific goal or plan for what I wanted the blog to ultimately become. Over time, what started as a photography blog morphed into a community, music, and entertainment blog that highlights some of the most talented people and positive events in Richmond.

I’m very proud of that, but more importantly, I’m proud of the friends that I have made and the positive influence that they have had on the city. Through the Cheats Movement, and with the help of good folks like RVANews, I have met, profiled, and highlighted some of the area’s most important young change agents. They are musicians, artists, writers, photographers, comedians, models, business owners, advocates, teachers, parents, you name it--they really represent the amazing diversity of the city. They’re all leaders, and they’re all doing amazing work to make Richmond such a great place to work, play, and live.

Last week, I invited my friends to attend the 1st Annual Cheats Movement Epic Group Photo. Together, with the help of the awesome photographer Marc Schmidt, we pulled off the first ever Cheats Movement “family” photo. And though the weather caused some major heartburn, I will always remember that day as the beginning of what the real goal of the Cheats Movement Blog has always about: to bring together the most talented and positive people in the city and change our community for the better.

The best compliment that I can give to everyone in this photo is that they all do such great things because they love what they do. There are no hidden agendas or misleading motives, and most of them don’t get paid--well or at all--for the amount of work they put into their craft. That’s why I believe that the people in these photos (and the people that couldn’t make it!) will ultimately be the people that plot the future of this city.

I often use the tag line, “WE SEE IT.” It means that we see the city differently. We see our communities differently. We can see the best that Richmond has to offer and we strive to get or city and our communities to that level.

And we are just getting started. I hope you will join us for next year’s family photo.

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First Row (Left to Right): Brian Lopez - Founder/CEO Glide Skateboards, Sheb DJ-Skywalker Woods - Nint3ndo/Electronica Weekly, Distant Dee – Hip Hop artist Onassis Music Group, Brian McDaniel – Dirty Richmond, JuJu Debtera - Capoeira Angola Liberation Movement, Marc Cheatham – The Cheat Movement, Shannon Cleary – WRIR Commonwealth of Notions, James Dangle – Just Plain Sounds, Samantha “Sunny Harmonic” Reed – Photosynthesizers, Josh “Official Freeze” Reed – Hip Hop artist, Shannon Santiago – Shannon Santiago Photography.

Second Row : Melody Joy Short – Founder - Artisan Café, Jonathan Zur – Executive Director – Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities, Ian Redwood – Natural Talent Clothing, Zae Kinchen – Natural Talent Clothing, Manny Evans – Natural Talent Clothing, Merc Coleman – Mercizdope Tumblr, Summer McCarley – Mint Collective – Richmond Comedy Coalition, Katie Holcomb – Richmond Comedy Coalition, Josh “Blu” Blubaugh – Richmond Comedy Coalition, Steve Howze – Richmond Comedy Coalition, Hamilton Glass – WHO’S HAM?, Veronica “Nyce” Llano – Just Plain Sounds, Becca Johnson – RVAudio.

Third Row: Nick Mastro – MastroTime, Justin “Eli Cash” Malleney – Electronica Weekly, Rob “BC Music 1st – Hip Hop artist New Juice Crew/OMG, Robert Sobecke – Richmond Comedy Coalition, Anthony “Just Plain Ant” Gillison – Just Plain Sounds, Andrew Cothern – RVA Playlist, Matt Newman – Richmond Comedy Coalition, PJ Sykes – PJ Sykes Photography.

Group Photo by Marc Schmidt – additional by Marc Schmidt and Nick Mastro

Present but somehow not in this photo: Jennifer Britt, Kate Andrews, and Mike Kemetic.

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Manny Evans – Natural Talent Clothing, Zae Kinchen – Natural Talent Clothing Distant Dee – Hip Hop artist Onassis Music Group Rob “BC Music 1st – Hip Hop artist New Juice Crew/OMG, Josh “Official Freeze” Reed – Hip Hop artist, James Dangle – Just Plain Sounds

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Melody Joy Short – Founder - Artisan Café, Samantha “Sunny Harmonic” Reed, Veronica “Nyce” Llano – Just Plain Sounds

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Mike Kemetic – Audio Mass Transit – Photosynthesizers, Cheats, PJ Sykes

Check the Rhyme: Epic Fest 2012

Marc Cheatham — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 15:29:53 +0000

The 2nd Annual Epic Fest took place last weekend at Kingdom. Epic Fest is the creation of Octavion Xcellence and Cain McCoy of Virginia-based Slapdash Promotion. They teamed up with a handful of RVA based sponsors, including: West Coast Kix, Rumors Boutique, Kulture, and more to bring RVA a two-day music festival of the best hip hop in the region. With over 40 acts performing over two nights, there was a lot of anticipation leading up to the event.

Along with the anticipation, there were also a few questions leading up to the festival: most of which centered on whether RVA music fans would support a two-day hip hop festival that only featured regional and independent acts. By headlining independent acts, Slapdash took a different approach from other recent RVA music festivals (Style Weekly’s Shadrock Music Festival headlined De La Soul and RVA Mag’s Music Fest headlined Girl Talk, both well respected national acts). Determined to host a successful event, team Slapdash put their promotion into overdrive, but the fact remained that local hip hop has traditionally struggled to bring out massive crowds.

Ultimately, I was pleasantly surprised and extremely pleased by the strong attendance and fan support at both days of Epic Fest. There were large crowds and a strong feeling of community present throughout the entire festival. At points, there was just as much action outside of Kingdom as on stage. Epic Fest felt like part family reunion, part concert, and all hip hop culture--even with the severe storms that ended the first day early and forced several delays during the second day.

The Cheats Movement camera was on deck for both days, capturing some of the festival’s best action. I was truly impressed with all the acts that took the stage, but here are a few standouts (in no particular order).

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Suburban District

Suburban District just released their new album, Beer for Breakfast. With the album, Fair, Tim Porter, and Octavion X are taking their music to another level. Always entertaining live performers, they shut down day two of Epic Fest with upbeat few upbeat tracks. The songs, “Bleachers” and “Candy Flip;” performed with North Carolina producer Conrizzle are real standouts from the new album.

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Black Liquid (with the New Juice Crew)

The hardest working man in RVA hip hop graced the Epic Fest stage on day two. One of the best live performers in RVA, Black Liquid hit the crowd with his RVA anthems: “Can I Get A Deal” and “Richmond.” Definitely a must see live performance if you are able to catch him in RVA.

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Just Plain Sounds (JPS)

Rumor has it that JPS brought the storm that ultimately ended day one of Epic Fest. That may not be true but they definitely brought a tornado on stage. The Honorable Sleaze and James Dangle alternated tracks from their latest albums, One Time I Knew (James Dangle) and Heavenly/Devilish (Sleaze). They brought a different energy to the Epic Fest stage. It was a great night for Sleaze, his first full length music video “The Passion of The Sleaze” was released earlier that day and all of JPS was feeling the love from the crowd.

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Doe the Paperboy

Doe has really stepped up his exposure over the last six months. With the release of his latest album, DoeNation 2, performing live shows, and teaming up with Robert Roby from Soul Live Media. He’s released two of the best local videos on the scene: “If I had it” and “Picasso.” Doe has elevated himself to a must see act in the area. Make sure you check for the Petersburg native when he’s performing around Central Virginia.

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Epic Fest shaped up to be a very significant weekend for the RVA hip hop community, and everyone that played their part in organizing this event should be very proud.

Check the Rhyme: Stone Soul Music Festival

Marc Cheatham — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 10:00:53 +0000

The Cheats Movement camera was back at it again--this time I was at Brown’s Island for the Stone Soul Music Festival.

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V.I.C. and Melanie Fiona

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Travis Porter

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Tank

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Tank

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Sir Nose

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Ruben Studdard

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Parliment

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Parliment

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Melanie Fiona

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Melanie Fiona & George Clinton

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George Clinton

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George Clinton

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Fabolous

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Fabolous

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Boyz II Men

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Boyz II Men

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Boyz II Men

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Boyz II Men

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Black RVA

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Black RVA

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Big Keith

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Check the Rhyme: Reflecting on MCA and the legacy of the Beastie Boys

Marc Cheatham — Fri, 18 May 2012 10:00:33 +0000

To be honest, my love affair with the Beastie Boys started by accident. I was 13 years old when a good friend of mine borrowed his older brother’s copied N.W.A cassette tape and brought it over for us to listen to while we were playing video games. Of course, my parents would have never allowed me listen to N.W.A., so our plan was to switch the tape to the other side every time she came in to check on us. The other side of the tape happened to be Check Your Head by the Beastie Boys. It wasn’t long before we stopped listening to Straight Outta Compton and were listening to the Beastie Boys exclusively.

I had heard of the Beastie Boys before my freshman year of high school, and they were a bit of a novelty to me. Three white rappers from NYC partying like rock stars wasn’t really my thing. On top of that, “Fight for your Right” wasn’t exactly a hip hop song. In my opinion, they were cool because they were friends with Run-D.M.C and signed to Def Jam, but that’s really all I knew about them. It wasn’t until Check Your Head and then their next album, Ill Communication, that I really started to notice their genius. The Beastie Boys took me to places in hip hop music that I’d never been before. They blended NYC’s native-tongue style hip hop with live instrumental grooves, played with instruments not turntables, and they mixed in punk rock songs. By doing so, they made albums that were unique.

The Beastie Boys grew from punk kids, to serious musicians, to serious musicians with a purpose, in front of everyone. And if there was one member of the group that led their evolution into adulthood, it was Adam Yauch aka MCA. MCA was the first member of the group that really started to look at the world differently. He was the first to realize that there was more to life than just being a musician and mega-star. He began to use his stardom to advocate for things he truly believed in, particularly the Tibetan independence movement. Growing up in the west end of Henrico, it was the Beastie Boys, not CNN or MSNBC, that taught me about the oppression of the Tibetan people. MCA pushed the Beastie Boys to play benefit concerts for that cause.

After becoming a husband and father of a daughter, he openly and publicly apologized for past lyrics that he deemed offensive to women and to the gay and lesbian community. Looking back it’s fitting that it was MCA that once that spit the lines, "I want to say a little something that’s long overdue / The disrespect to women has got to be through / To all the mothers and sisters and wives and friends / I want to offer my love and respect to the end."

MCA will be missed for so many reasons. I will remember him as a social leader and for being the conscience of one of the greatest hip hop groups of all time.

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Reflections from RVA’s hip hop community

Ben FM

Luggage

“Yo, who you know that can put rap songs next to punk and jazz songs AND still have it sound like they belong on the same album together? The Beastie Boys were like a sweet & sour pizza taco...except delicious. That level of versatility may never be replicated. I won't say rest in peace since I think dude was Buddhist (so we'll probably be hearing from him again soon).”

Mike Kemetic

Photosynthesizers and Audio Mass Transit

"MCA was definitely the most identifiable member of the Beastie Boys. His signature, gruff voice had a bit of toughness to it that balanced out the high-pitched, sometimes whiny voices of Adrock and Mike D. I've been a fan of the Beasties since the early Def Jam, pre-Licensed To Ill days, and they have always garnered a high level of respect from everyone in the hip hop community--much in the same way that their mentor Rick Rubin has. As a bass player, I followed MCA's work the closest, especially on the live compositions, because he always did some interesting things on the bass, and I love multi-talented artists that find multiple mediums through which to express themselves.

Most of the time "white rappers" are passed over as fads or condemned for trying to emulate cultures they know little to nothing about. The Beastie Boys wrapped hip hop around themselves and redefined it in their own way, in a way that the gangsters, skaters, suburbanites, and inner city kids could all relate to because each of them had their own struggles. The Beasties personified what it was all about to be young and rebellious."

Cain McCoy

Slapdash Ent.

“My first Beastie Boys memory is 1998's Hello Nasty. I was 11. Total Request Live was at its peak and MTV played “Intergalactic” into another galaxy. Some you just read that and said, "THAT'S THE FIRST MEMORY?” Well you have to remember that I was 11 and missed the hysteria of their earlier hits. As I got older, I began to search their catalog only to have my ears shocked by the impact that these Caucasians had on Hip-Hop. Licensed to Ill is one of the greatest albums ever, and not just hip hop albums, but of any genre. If "Paul Revere" or "The New Style" came out today you would spaz out! MMMMMMMM DROP!

Besides MCA's contributions to the Beasties, I always admired his Nathanial Hörnblowér video-directing alias. I recently saw Gunnin' For That #1 Spot, a documentary that focused on NBA players’ journeys to the top, which he directed.

For me, MCA was more than just a musician. He was a renaissance man. He made an impact and lived his life. He will be missed, but I, as many of you, will cherish his art forever.”

Lord Slugg

New Juice Crew

“You had to respect them even if you didn’t rock with them. I can still remember getting Licensed to Ill for my birthday. MCA was a dope MC with a crazy voice. He was a pioneer and someone from the earlier days of hip hop who stayed relevant. It’s an easy search to find an MCA/Beastie Boy reference in hip hop today. In my opinion without him there would be no Beastie Boys, no Def Jam, and hip hop would not be where it is today. Any producer who samples rock music better bow that head!! BEASTIE--PERIOD.”

The Honorable Sleaze

Just Plain Sounds

“MCA & the Beastie Boys are legends, innovators, and one of the most creative music groups ever. Licensed to Ill and Paul's Boutique are two of hip hop's stellar old school albums. I can honestly say that I've never met a true fan of hip hop that didn't respect and appreciate their contribution to the genre. RIP to hip hop royalty, MCA.”

Ohbliv

“Yeah man, it hit me hard when I heard about MCA. The Beastie Boys were very influential to me. I mean, without them a lot of Caucasian rappers would have an even harder time trying to break through. Paul's Boutique is my favorite Beasties record and one of my favorite albums period. They were the kings of the irreverent, random rap style that I love so much, they were always thinking ahead of the game with their style. MCA will definitely be missed.”

photo by michael morel

PHOTOS: Shadrock Music Festival

Marc Cheatham — Tue, 01 May 2012 10:30:42 +0000

Style Weekly put together an amazing lineup of both local and national performers at this past weekend's Shadrock Music Festival. Below are some photographs of: Photosynthesizers, Shabazz Palaces, Dum Dum Girls, Yo La Tengo, and hip hop legends De La Soul.

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Check the Rhyme: Shadrock music festival

Marc Cheatham — Tue, 01 May 2012 10:00:44 +0000

Saturday, I took the Cheats Movement camera to Brown’s Island for the first ever Shadrock Music Festival. Due to the rain, the crowd was a little lighter than I anticipated, but the spirit and enthusiasm definitely wasn't slowed by the wet weather. Style Weekly put together an amazing lineup of both local and national performers. Below are some photographs of: Photosynthesizers, Shabazz Palaces, Dum Dum Girls, Yo La Tengo, and hip hop legends De La Soul.

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More photos from the Shadrock Music Festival; RVANews

Check the Rhyme: Culture Wars vs. Style Wars

Marc Cheatham — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 11:44:20 +0000

It became real for me last Tuesday. I was standing in knee-high grass on the corner on 12th and Hull taking photos of Pixel Pancho’s second mural, a massive piece of art that depicts a two-headed robotic dragon wrestling with nature, and standing beside me was Martha Cooper. That name may not mean very much to the casual reader, but Cooper’s presence in Richmond means that something groundbreaking was taking place. The legendary photographer has made her career by documenting special places during special times in history. This dates back to her time as a staff photographer for The New York Post in the 1970s and ‘80s. Cooper made her mark on history by documenting the major elements of hip hop culture--graffiti writing, break dancing, MCing, and DJing--in New York City at a time when it was completely underground.

Cooper was in town this week documenting Richmond’s first G40 Art Summit. I hope that you have noticed but just in case you haven’t, RVA is currently being transformed into a hub for art and creative culture. The G40 Art Summit, Art 180’s What Do you Stand For display, and later this month the RVA Street Art Festival, are all a part of what I’m calling RVA’s Style Wars Summer.

As I traveled around the city this week, I noticed crowds of Richmonders viewing, photographing, and discussing the new art on display. I heard those conversations pivot from artist and murals to conversations about music, hobbies, and neighborhoods. I believe that the vibe surrounding the sudden growth of public art in Richmond has some parallels to those early days of hip hop culture in New York City. Of course, these aforementioned art projects aren’t as rebellious, but the early days of hip hop weren’t about breaking the law, they were about expression and finding an identity. It was about creativity and pride in where one comes from.¹

I have lived in Richmond all my life. I take great pride in the city and the progress that it has made, particularly in the last 15 years, with the reduction in violent crime and a growing city population. I am truly excited about the renaissance of art and culture that is starting to take place this summer. Richmond has a real opportunity to rebrand itself as a hotspot for art, music, and culture. But the fact remains that Richmond’s history still cast a huge shadow over progressive progress, and forging any type of new identity will be met with old-time opposition.

I believe the latest controversy on Monument Avenue is a strong example of the challenges that face RVA moving forward. In my opinion, City Hall has done well to embrace the expansion of arts and culture this summer, playing a significant role assisting the aforementioned art projects. They even originally provided a permit for Art 180’s What Do You Stand For display to be shown on Richmond’s most famous avenue until early May. I call this a good-faith effort by the city to support arts and creative culture. But what has disappointed me is what appears to be City Hall’s knee-jerk reactions to situations that could be resolved with comprise and a little more due diligence.

City Official should work with citizens, businesses, and non-profits on issues like the overflow of children at the First Friday’s Art Walk, the makeshift skate park in Fonticello Park, and the removal of art on Monument Avenue. Working together is the only way that RVA will be successful in creating a new identity that respects our history but doesn’t choke our growth towards becoming the great city that most Richmonders think we can be.

Last week, while walking down Broad Street photographing G40 murals, I met a very accomplished photographer from the United Kingdom named Vanessa Winship. Vanessa was in town as a part of her year-long project to photograph all 50 states. In our brief conversation, she instantly reflected on being in the south and particularly in Virginia. She remarked how there is a real tension in the history here. She said, “It’s a tension that you truly can feel--it wears thick--even to a visitor from out of town.” I believe the only way to dissipate the tension she refers to is by real collaboration and compromise. It sounds simple, but I believe City Hall could significantly benefit by taking a public lead in facilitating positive debate and resolutions to some of these issues.

I may be optimistic, but I don't think it's inappropriate to deem this summer RVA’s Style Wars summer. It is my hope that the public art that is created and displayed will spark a growing appreciation and interest throughout the city. These art projects can help forge an identity for RVA as a Mid-Atlantic bright spot for arts, culture, and creativity.

I hope that 30 years from now America will be seeing a different set of photographs from the legendary Martha Cooper, one that marks this summer as the tipping point for something special in RVA.

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Footnotes

If you are unfamiliar with the birth of hip hop culture, I highly recommend the documentary film, Style Wars. ↩

Check the Rhyme: The soundtrack to VCU’s HAVOC is hip hop

Marc Cheatham — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 10:45:41 +0000

Throughout this year's amazing VCU Basketball season, there has been much written about the Rams’ HAVOC style of basketball. Coach Shaka Smart credits a lot of his team’s success to approaching each game with “the right mind set.” In the lead up to the Rams’ second round NCAA Tournament game against Wichita State, Coach Smart said “We focus on keeping in the moment--there will be a lot of talk, a lot of chatter, a lot of noise and drama that surrounds the game. It is what the media does--it’s a part of the game. But for us, we need to concentrate on what matters and that is our focus for Wichita State.”

One way that Coach Smart blocked out distractions this season was by focusing on preparation, scouting, and game planning with his assistant coaches. However, the players used an additional tool before the game to help them wreak HAVOC: a locker room soundtrack of hip hop music.

“There is not one set song that the team listens to before the game but everyone has their headphones going--there are a lot of beats playing in our locker room,” said starting point guard Darius Theus, prior to making the trip to Portland. Theus, who poured in 16 points, four assist, and five steal against Drexel in the CAA Championship Game--a performance that awarded him the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player--said music helps him get motivated and focused before games. “I listen to a lot of music but right now before a game it’s, Young Jeezy’s T. M. 103: Hustlerz Ambition” said Theus.

[audio:http://media.rvanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Young-Jeezy-Ft-Jay-Z-Andre-3000-I-Do.mp3|titles=I Do|artists=Young Jeezy Ft. Jay-Z & Andre 3000]

Similar to Theus, the Rams’ 6th man, Rob Brandenberg, also fueled his pregame routine with hip hop. “I listen to a lot of artists and all types of music, but before the game I listen to Jay-Z,” said Brandenberg. He continued to say, “Jay-Z is my favorite artist. He is always in my headphones–it helps me get my mind right before the game.” In his sophomore season, Brandenberg led the Rams’ bench players in points (8.9) and minutes (25.8).

[audio:http://media.rvanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/01-Public-Service-Announcement-Interlude.mp3|titles=Public Service Announcement|artists=Jay-Z]

The Rams’ only senior, and universal leader, this season was “Big Shot” Brad Burgess. Burgess had an amazing season and career by doing a lot of everything: minutes played (32.2--team high), points (13.4--team high), rebounds (4.9--second on the team), and he did all of this without ever missing a start. Burgess’s VCU career ended Saturday night with the loss to Indiana and along with it his remarkable consecutive start steak (146)--that’s the most consecutive starts in NCAA Basketball history. In addition, his 1,684 career-points ranks sixth on VCU’s all-time scoring list. The player that did it all for VCU took a moment to list a few musicians that he listened to before VCU games. “Anything that gets me hype is what I listen to before the game,” said Burgess. He added Kanye West and Rick Ross to the previously mentioned Jay-Z and Jeezy as perfect game-time music.

[audio:http://media.rvanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/1-06-Monster.mp3|titles=Monster|artists=Kanye West, Jay-Z, Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj & Bon Iver]

Prior to departing for Portland, Troy Daniels was clearly the most excited Ram in the media room on Selection Sunday. Daniels, who played less than 5 minutes in last year’s magical run to the final four, started 19 games this season and was a major contributor to the Rams’ success. He led the team in total 3-pointers and 3-point shooting percentage. He hit several big shots, including a huge 3-pointer in the final minutes of the Wichita State win. “I listen to several artists too but I have to say J. Cole,” said a smiling Daniels. “The Friday Night Lights Mixtape, I must have listened to that whole mixtape before several games this season…it just gets me pumped up.”

[audio:http://media.rvanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/16-Work-Out.mp3|titles=Work Out|artists=J Cole]

For the record, the ultimate leader of HAVOC, Coach Smart, took a little softer approach when we met at the beginning of the season, “I love all Michael Jackson, R. Kelly, Jay-Z, Stevie Wonder, Bob Marley, I have an eclectic taste. I like a little bit of everything.

As the Rams prepare for the off season, this fan has to thank them for another amazing run. I’m not the first to say this and won’t be the last: PLEASE COACH--ONE MORE YEAR!!!

Check the Rhyme: Wake Up Everybody

Marc Cheatham — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 10:00:00 +0000

What started as a conversation among friends regarding the struggles of their community has now grown into one of the most inspirational viral videos ever to come out of RVA. BlackRVA's Richmond rendition of the Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes' classic, "Wake Up Everybody", has been viewed 10,000 times in just one week. The video project is the public launch of the BlackRVA website, which will serve as a free, community-based resource that highlights African American culture and promotes African American businesses in the City of Richmond.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ij_W2E6Kts

Featuring a collection of Richmond musicians and artist, the video has taken the city by storm. The song was recorded last year at New Millennium Studios in Petersburg and mixed at In Your Ear Studios right here in Richmond. It features: 5 musicians, 12 singers, 4 MC's, and 1 spoken word artist. In total, approximate 40 people, all with significant ties to RVA, worked on the project. The music was produced by Amzi Jackson of Untitled Music and Media. He is also the founder of the Urban Music Producers Association. "Amzi is an amazing talent. His music always has a powerful and uplifting message." said Mimi Wentz, one of the creators of BlackRVA.

Though the organization is called BlackRVA, I was quickly informed by Wentz that BlackRVA is not intended to separate people of color, "We want to showcase our history, businesses, and good works, and anyone that is willing to help that effort is welcome to do so." BlackRVA has already highlighted this point by tapping the extremely talented video director Wesley Rose to direct the Wake Up Everybody video. "From the start of the project Wesley has been family," said Wentz of the 18 year old Fredericksburg native, who is white. "Not only do we not want to separate ourselves based on race, we do not want to compete with any other organization. We want to work with all of the groups that are addressing critical issues in the African American community here in RVA," said Wentz.

The statistics are staggering, nearly 2 in 3 (64%) African American children live in father-absent homes, African Americans are the racial/ethnic group most affected by HIV and AIDS, African American homeownership fell to 44% in 2011 (and is still declining), unemployment is far worse than the national average, foreclosures, predatory lending, incarceration rates, you name it, the numbers paint a troubling trend for African Americans in the U.S. These trends were not lost on Mimi Wentz and a group of her close friends, "I just got tired of waiting for someone else to do something," said Wentz on the creation of BlackRVA. "It's like the quote, 'We are the one we've been waiting for,' I have a young daughter and I decided now is the time to do something to address these issues that are not talked about enough in our community."

Featured artists

Z. Bey
Lela Bizz
Ty Francis
Deleyse Rowe
Jon Bibbs
Nicki McMullen
Garnett Boldin
Jarrad Anthony
Hannah Skyye
Brithe Songstress
Tomeka Carroll
Raymond Cottman
Francois Hamilton
Corey P
One
Tamir Rock
Lil Omar

The concept of producing a song came to Wentz after hearing a series of inspiring sermons by her Pastor Calvin Duncan and a conversation with the song's producer, Jackson. "We originally talked about doing an original song but ultimately came to the conclusion that putting our own spin on a popular, uplifting song would translate our message the best. I did not know how to acquire the rights to a song so I just basically started cold calling places with ties to the song, "Wake Up Everybody." Wentz eventually found the rightful owners of the song and got a great deal because they intend to use the song for a promotion only and not for profit."

Wentz admits to being shock by the popularity of the video, "We really wanted to launch it in Black History Month and if you notice we posted pretty late in the month (February 28). It went live at 8 PM, and all I heard after that was my cell phone buzzing with all the feedback. It's been amazing," said Wentz.

Now the real work begins for BlackRVA, with such a successful video, Mimi and her friends will need to work harder than ever to bring the website, its applications, and resources to the community. Planning for a full website launch is underway, along with a live performance of the viral video. "Of course, just a video is not going to do the work that needs to be done in our community, but it's a very positive start for BlackRVA. We are dedicated to really impacting the problem areas in our neighborhoods and implementing solutions," Wentz said in conclusion.

For more information, visit BlackRVA.com and follow BlackRVA on Facebook and Twitter.

— ∮∮∮ —

Sources: National Fatherhood Imitative, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, United States Census Bureau

Check the Rhyme: remembering J Dilla

Marc Cheatham — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 16:04:15 +0000

James Dewitt Yancey, better known by his stage names J Dilla and Jay Dee, passed away six years ago this month from complications of the blood disease thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and lupus. J Dilla is known today as one of hip hop's most highly regarded and influential producers. He worked with some of hip hop's greatest talents such as: The Parcyede, A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, and Common on some of their most notable projects. J Dilla's death is remembered annually by a star-studded Dilla tribute concert in his hometown of Detroit and smaller Dilla tribute concerts all over the country.

Mikemetic Kemetic

RVA music veteran Mikemetic Kemetic (Photosynthesizers & AudioMassTransit) hosted #DillaLives, a concert earlier this month at The Cellar Door to honor J Dilla. I recently caught up with Mike to chat about Dilla's legacy and the importance of #DillaLives. "In my opinion, J Dilla is much more than just a producer," Mike said. "He embodies a whole generation of hip-hop musicians and innovators that were not previously represented at the highest level." That may seem odd in today's hip hop world of celebrity producers, most notably Kanye West, but it is true nonetheless. Star status for producers like DJ Premier, Questlove, and Pete Rock has only come after years of hard work, several gold and platinum records, and a new crop of hip hop enthusiast dedicated to finding unique sounds.

"As a musician, you really can't talk about J Dilla without talking about his drum programming." Mike followed up. "A lot of producers today focus on mechanically fixing their beats while Dilla played his music out to give it a live feel." When asked why was hosting a Dilla Lives concert in RVA was important, Mike said, "It is important because J Dilla's music is alive today. We hear that distinct Dilla sound in a lot of 2012 music...Also, no one else was doing it, which strange because Dilla did have a connection to Richmond. He produced some of the tracks on Skillz's (then known as Mad Skillz) debut album in 1995. It is still known as one of, if not the, signature hip hop album out of Richmond."

Richmond producer, Ohbliv

Currently, there is a large flock of modern producers that credit Dilla's signature style as the foundation and inspiration to their sound. Among them is Richmond producer, Brad Ohbliv. "Like Questlove, Dilla laid the foundation for a lot of people's careers." Ohbliv said. "For me, he really set off forward thinking and progressive ideas in beat making. When I first heard Slum Village (a Detroit hip hop group which Dilla help form in 2002) it wasn't like anything that I had heard before; and this was coming off of A Tribe Called Quest. He took that jazzy, soulful vibe to another dimension." Ohbliv said. "Also, to the average hip hop fan, who doesn't fully understand the nuances of music production, it sounds good."

WRIR DJ Brad Stabler credits Dilla's sample selection as a distinction that set him apart from his peers. Stabler, also known as The Witchdoctor, said, "A lot of producers sample everything but there was something special about J Dilla's samples. You can go back through his entire catalog, his collaborations, etc. and the depth at which he pulled his samples for specific artist and specific vibes was like no other producer." Brad also echoed the sentiment of Questlove, famed producer of the Roots, by highlighting J Dilla's versatility, "What I really love about him is his versatility and how easily he was able to adapt to any artist and also push their boundaries. When you listen to a Dilla produced track for an artist, there is a stronger connection happening. It is the purest form of partnership and it is addicting to listen to."

After hearing Mike, Obliv, and Stabler talk about the nuances of J Dilla's sound I did a little more research on my own to provide you with my favorite J Dilla tracks. The first two are my all-time favorite Dilla songs:

"The Light" by Common (2000). In my opinion, the perfect Common song. I know what you're thinking "I Use to Love Her" fans, but trust me, that Bobby Caldwell sample is unmatched.
[audio:http://media.rvanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Common-The-Light.mp3]
"The Stakes is High" by De La Soul (1996). This song is the classic example of Dilla's timelessness. In 1996, a lot of people (including yours truly) were pumping Bad Boy and talking about the East Coast / West Coast battle, but Dilla was making a strong run with the collective Native Tongues. Today, "Stakes is High" is a classic joint but it took some years to get appreciated for this sound.
[audio:http://media.rvanews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/De-La-Soul-Stakes-Is-High.mp3]

The rest of my favorite J Dilla songs:

"Runnin" and "Drop" by The Pharcyde (1995)
"Didn't Cha Know" by Erykah Badu (2001)
"History" by Mos Def ft. Talib Kweli (2009)
"One for Ghost" AKA "Whip me with a Strap" by Ghostface Killah (2006)

I could go on forever about my favorite Dilla songs, but Questlove said it best, "If you name your top all-time producer, J Dilla is in that producers' top 3."

PHOTOS: Richmond Zombie Walk

Marc Cheatham — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 14:46:41 +0000

The 7th Annual Richmond Zombie Walk was held this weekend despite rainy weather. Hundreds of Richmond's faithful undead came out and walked up and down Carytown. Here are some of the most grotesque images of reanimated DEAD!!

Part 2: Coach Shaka Smart in his own words

Marc Cheatham — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 10:00:24 +0000

In Part 2 of Coach Shaka Smart In His Own Words, you will learn more about Shaka Smart; the man. He talks about his favorite music, his feeling on becoming a new dad, and the best advice he has ever received. His words are direct and unedited. It is clear that Coach Smart places a premium on his family, his players, VCU and the city of Richmond. He expects to be successful, but at the same time remands hungry and humble. The new VCU basketball season is right around the corner, and with it, the pursuit of another dream season. While it is inevitable that many Rams fans will be looking back to reflect on last year’s magical Final Four run, one man that will be looking straight ahead is Coach Smart. My guess is that he expects to do it again and I’d be hesitant to bet against him.

Part 1 of Coach Shaka Smart in his own words

Coach Shaka Smart in his own words

Marc Cheatham — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 11:22:14 +0000

VCU Men’s Basketball Coach Shaka Smart took the world by storm last March as the Rams upset their way to the NCAA Final Four. In the process, Coach Smart captivated the country with his on-court leadership and intriguing personal story. While Coach Smart is an outstanding basketball coach, I wanted learn more about him as a person and as a leader. This profile allows Coach Smart to define himself; in his own words. In two parts, Coach Smart honestly talks about a range of topics from why he decided to stay in Richmond to the music he listens to on his iPod. Coach Smart is a lot like the city itself: though he has achieved a great deal, there is no limit to his future. He is truly the toast of RVA.

First Fridays in black & white

Marc Cheatham — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 10:00:34 +0000

I’m Marc Cheatham. I run The Cheats Movement Blog. I started The Cheats Movement in late January to highlight all the diverse and wonderful things happening in the City of Richmond. Richmond is an amazing place to be right now; the art, comedy, music, festivals, you name it – RVA is moving in the right direction. One of the staples of Richmond resurgence is the First Fridays Art Walk.

The Art Walk on Broad Street has helped to spotlight amazing talent in RVA. Retail business, non-profits, and a growing culinary scene have all benefited from the monthly event. In addition, the First Fridays Art Walk has helped to change the public image of a once dangerous and economically dying part of the capital city.

In the face of recent criticism and complaints that First Fridays has “gotten out of control,” I would like to share my photos showing a far different, more positive, aspect of First Fridays. A First Fridays that is as diverse and happening as Richmond itself. I do this not to ignore specific problems; things like fights and vandalism are wrong and against the law. Knuckleheads should be held accountable. But First Fridays is an event that we, as a RVA community, should be discussing how to expand; not reduce. This is the time for RVA to move forward and spotlight the wonderful parts of this great city!

Visit the Cheats Movement Blog at: www.thecheatsmovement.com and on Facebook.

RVANews

The Cheats Movement Previews Stone Soul 2015

Jodeci (The Wild Card)

Faith Evans (The Rock)

Future (Eye Candy for the Ladies)

August Alsina (Eye Candy for the even Younger Ladies)

James Fortune (Gospel heavyweight)

Check the Rhyme: So RVA Fest

PHOTOS: SlutWalk Richmond

Related

Check the Rhyme: 10th Annual Happily Natural Day

Check the Rhyme: A Great Day in Richmond

Check the Rhyme: Epic Fest 2012

Suburban District

Black Liquid (with the New Juice Crew)

Just Plain Sounds (JPS)

Doe the Paperboy

Check the Rhyme: Stone Soul Music Festival

Check the Rhyme: Reflecting on MCA and the legacy of the Beastie Boys

Reflections from RVA’s hip hop community

Ben FM

Mike Kemetic

Cain McCoy

Lord Slugg

The Honorable Sleaze

Ohbliv

PHOTOS: Shadrock Music Festival

Check the Rhyme: Shadrock music festival

Related

Check the Rhyme: Culture Wars vs. Style Wars

Footnotes

Check the Rhyme: The soundtrack to VCU’s HAVOC is hip hop

Check the Rhyme: Wake Up Everybody

Featured artists

Check the Rhyme: remembering J Dilla

PHOTOS: Richmond Zombie Walk

Part 2: Coach Shaka Smart in his own words

Related

Coach Shaka Smart in his own words

First Fridays in black & white