From the Pacific Northwest to the Midwest, Seattle-born alternative hip hop artist Oblé Reed made his Chicago debut as part of the Groundwaves open mic and mentorship program in October. Omi Salisbury of VISTA Productions captured Reed’s set, where he performed some of his popular tracks like "SKYISFALLING,” and "CIRCLE THEORY,” all while perpetuating his values of community-building and self-care. 

Portland, OR — Portland’s hip-hop scene comes alive when Festivale Cool Nutz takes over the Alberta Street Pub for two unforgettable nights of music, culture, and community tonight and tomorrow, December 12th & 13th. Headlined and curated by Cool Nutz, one of the Pacific Northwest’s most respected hip-hop pioneers, Festivale Cool Nutz unites a powerhouse lineup of regional talent representing the best of the city’s sound.

The Black Media Matter Studio was full of brotherly love when Seattle rapper and multi-faceted artist Vic Daggs II joined his long-time friend Curtis Delgardo II on Almost The Weekend! last week. The pair dove into Daggs’ motivation behind his artistry in music, audio engineering, and fashion design, and his focus on capturing authentic moments of creative excellence. 

Seattle rapper and artist Mafi D recently joined host Curtis Delgardo II, aka Cuddy, on Almost The Weekend! for the first in-person edition of Artist Corner. Growing up in Seattle’s Central District, Mafi offered insights into his decade-long career, detailing the profound impact of his community-focused work and the collaborative energy behind his music.

Portland’s hip-hop scene comes alive when Festivale Cool Nutz takes over the Alberta Street Pub for two unforgettable nights of music, culture, and community on December 12th & 13th, 2025. Headlined and curated by Cool Nutz, one of the Pacific Northwest’s most respected hip-hop pioneers, Festivale Cool Nutz unites a powerhouse lineup of regional talent representing the best of the city’s sound.

In a recent episode of Almost a Weekend, hosts Besa Gordon and Curtis Delgardo II, aka Cuddy, had the pleasure of interviewing Seattle music legend, DJ Supreme La Rock. The DJ, who has been setting vibes in the Emerald City for decades, discussed his upcoming performance at the 2025 Earshot Jazz Festival tomorrow, his extensive vinyl collection, and the secret to his longevity in the music industry.

In a recent interview on “The Day With Trae,” BP Parker, the visionary behind the Love is Dope clothing brand, shared insights into his creative journey and the powerful message he aims to spread. More than just fashion, "Love is Dope" is a lifestyle, deeply rooted in Parker's personal experiences and commitment to uplifting his community.

In a special edition of "City Beats" on Almost the Weekend, hosts Besa Gordon and Curtis Delgardo II, aka Cuddy, welcomed DJ D-Ommy, one of Africa's biggest DJs, for an exciting conversation about his musical influences, melding music and cultures, and his tour that recently stopped in Seattle.

Last month, the organization Hip Hop is Green took over Cherry Street for a festival showcasing local artists and their unapologetic mission in teaching environmentalism through the culture. Keith Tucker, executive director and founder of Hip Hop is Green, proudly declared his operation as the greatest plant-based hip-hop organization in the world.

DJ Diesel, aka Shaq, lit up the Tacoma Dome on Friday night in support of REZZ, the first female electronic DJ to headline the Dome with his intense and ferocious take on EDM. The fan-proclaimed “Dubstep Dad” and ambassador in the EDM scene, Diesel brought the energy up to 10 and had the crowd in mosh pits and circle pits throughout the entire one-hour set. All photos by Marvin Patterson (@i_shotcha)

R&B singer, songwriter, and producer Kevin Ross caught up with Besa Gordon to share insights into his journey, artistry, and what fans can expect from his latest project. Known for blending soulful vocals with timeless songwriting, Ross continues to carve out his lane as an independent trailblazer in the music industry.

"The Day with Trae" recently featured Lady A, a renowned producer, singer, and songwriter, for an inspiring conversation about music and unity. Host Trae Holiday welcomed Lady A, immediately praising her  campaign titled "Road to One Seattle Soul," an initiative explicitly designed to unite the community through the power of music and address pressing social issues.

The Washington State Fair stage exploded with energy as Ludacris delivered a show-stopping performance that had the entire crowd on its feet. The multi-talented rapper and actor blazed through his extensive catalog of hits with a charismatic stage presence and his signature rapid-fire flow.

The Washington State Fair got a dose of hip-hop royalty on Saturday! Slick Rick, the undisputed "Ruler," graced the stage and took us on a trip through some of his legendary hits.

What a night! The 10th Annual PDX Hip Hop Week Star Awards set the Reser Center for the Arts on fire with culture, creativity, and community. Hosted by “Welcome to the Neighborhood, Radio Personality, DJ Klyph and produced by Co-Founder of PDX Hip Hop Week / Celebrity DJ, O.G.ONE, this wasn’t just a show — it was a movement.

Portland's vibrant hip-hop scene is gearing up for a major milestone: the 10th anniversary of Portland Hip-Hop Week. From August 20-26, 2025, the city will be buzzing with an extensive lineup of events celebrating the culture that has united communities and elevated local talent. This year promises to be the biggest and most comprehensive celebration yet.

Trey Holiday sat down with the enigmatic Mr. Phat, the producer behind the iconic "Cupid Shuffle" and a long-time collaborator with Cupid. The conversation delved into Mr. Phat's journey in music, his creative process, and his unwavering commitment to authenticity.

The multi-faceted creative powerhouse Vic Daggs II has spent close to a decade making waves in music and fashion in Seattle and beyond. From momentous collaborations with Macklemore, Ryan Lewis, and Ghanian rapper M.anifest to the sultry conscious soul on his 2024 EP “Mental Hugs,” the 27-year-old artist has cemented himself as a mainstay in the miscellaneous sound of Pacific Northwest hip hop. 

The South Sound was lit as rising star Akeem Ali brought his signature blend of smooth lyrics and vibrant stage presence to Jazzbones in Tacoma. Presented by the Innovative Change Makers (ICM), the event wasn’t just another night out—it was a celebration of community, connection, and pure joy.

When 24kGoldn sat down with Besa Gordon at the Black Media Matters Studio, it felt like a full-circle moment—five years after their first interview, the chart-topping artist returned with new music, fresh insight, and a more grounded outlook on life and artistry.