#ConvergeOnTheRoad - The energy was high in Mt. Vernon, Washington when Converge's own Curtis Delgardo II, aka Cuddy, and Besa Gordon linked up with DJ Defkawn and DJ Troll King on “The Re-Up” on KSVR 91.7 FM radio. While Besa and Cuddy regularly light up the Black Media Matters Studio like nobody’s business, they’re also everywhere like air, demonstrating Converge’s commitment to connecting with the community on the road.

Photojournalist and host of “The Rundown” ProofNThePlay captured magic in the Hangar 30 parking lot at Magnuson Park during a recent Seattle Snap photo meetup. What makes a Seattle Snap event special isn’t the location, the gear, or even the images themselves — it’s the vibe, Proof said. Every meetup is a chance to encounter new creatives and subjects, enjoy a shared enthusiasm for photography, and ruminate in the unfiltered joy of creating with others. 

Taking the long way around isn’t just about the miles. For Converge Media co-founder Erik Kalligraphy, it’s about the narrative found in the margins. Recently, the Converge Media team hit the pavement for another installment of Converge on the Road, a series dedicated to capturing the pulse of the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

For over three decades, community legend Earl Lancaster of Earl’s Cuts and Styles has been a perpetual presence in the Central District, existing as a sanctuary for the culture and a cornerstone of the community. Converge Media has been spending the past few months with Earl for an upcoming Community Legends documentary, photography, and podcast series.

Communion Restaurant & Bar recently marked its milestone fifth anniversary with a glamorous Harlem Renaissance-themed celebration earlier this year that focused on celebrating its staff and community—a theme dear to co-owner Chef Kristi Brown. The evening's festivities featured a quartet from the Garfield Jazz Band, food from De La Soil, a mural timeline of the restaurant's journey, and special acknowledgements to long-time staff members.

The Met Gala Edition of Scope Screenings successfully merged the worlds of fashion and film last month in a beautiful send off to the underground film festival’s fourth season. In a night of joyful creativity and community at the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute in Seattle’s Central District, film commissioner Lex Scope rounded out the year by celebrating filmmakers and visual artists.

In the ever-evolving landscape of Portland’s creative scene, a new voice is emerging—not through words, but through the evocative, storytelling power of a Canon EOS Rebel T7. Dean Bechard, a 24-year-old photographer and creative director, has spent the last six months transitioning from a long-time hobbyist into one of the city’s most promising professional visual journalists.

Seattle artist Lady P recently hosted Lady P & Friends at Vermillion Art Gallery & Bar, presenting an intimate, community-driven live music event rooted in connection, reflection, and raw expression. More than a performance, the night felt like a gathering, bringing together close collaborators and longtime friends like MDM London, YKTMV, and PS, and her audience into a space that felt personal rather than performative.

Rocky Sandoval’s Winter Ball, a live R&B showcase and community-centered event, brought together artists, musicians, and supporters from across the Pacific Northwest at McMenamins Spanish Ballroom in Tacoma, WA. As host and artist, Sandoval said the night represented a full-circle moment, celebrating independent music, live musicianship, and real connection with the community. 

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)

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.

Photos by ProofNThePlay capturing the energy and spirit of the annual Festival Sundiata at the Seattle Center over the weekend. This cherished celebration of African American culture was a vibrant showcase of community, art, and heritage.

The Seattle Center Exhibition Hall was buzzing with creativity and community as hundreds of tattoo enthusiasts and artists gathered for the annual Seattle Tattoo Expo. Held from August 15th to the 17th, the event marked its 20th year, solidifying its place as a premier gathering for the tattoo world.

Here is King County Equity Now’s Juneteenth Celebration at Jimi Hendrix Park in Seattle, Washington through the lens of photographer Susan Fried.

On Friday, May 16, Elijah L. Lewis’ killer, Patrick Cooney, received his official sentencing, totaling 35 years for second-degree murder and first-degree assault with a deadly firearm.  

By Besa Gordon - This year’s Seattle Sports Commission 90th Annual Sports Star of the Year Awards red carpet was cute. Each year, I’ve been able to not only attend but also work along side Chuck Hamaker of Circling Seattle Sports, and tap in with athletes from around the state, coaches, and sports legends who have shaped the history of Washington sports.

This past Saturday, Young Black Homeowners hosted their 3rd Annual Black Equity Ball at the Four Points by Sheraton, bringing together a stunning display of Black excellence. Aspiring and current Black homeowners showed up dressed to impress for an evening filled with inspiration, celebration, and community.

Besa Gordon pulled up to the Northwest Gumbo Competition to see firsthand how Chef Wally of Seattle Soulfood Kitchen and Chef Red of Come Eat Daddy brought the heat in this epic cookoff! From bold flavors to big ol’ chunks of crab and shrimp, the gumbo was a whole experience.

The Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle held their annual breakfast on Friday, November 22nd, at the Seattle Convention Center. Actors and activists Hill Harper and Taraji P. Henson anchored the breakfast with a conversation ranging from social justice to mental health. Photos: Susan Fried