Legendary Seattle artist ZNi International is taking over Columbia City Theatre with a cast of local musical talent over MLK weekend for his show “ZNi & Friends.” Melding his own takes on reggae, pop, hip-hop, and afrobeats, ZNi is a force in the Seattle scene both in and out of the studio, bringing people together through the healing power of positivity and international appeal. 

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. 

Veteran Portland hip-hop artist Cool Nutz released a new EP titled “Accoutrements” on December 10th, 2025 on all major streaming platforms. The project features cohesive, hard-hitting production from Tope and Trox, delivering a focused body of work that underscores Cool Nutz’s longevity, lyrical precision, and unmistakable Northwest voice.

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. 

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.

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.

Amelia Day, a queer folk rock powerhouse carving out her own space alongside legends like Brandi Carlile, has been chasing music since the days she banged on pots and pans as a toddler. Even back then, Day had a knack for making noise that turned heads (or at least caught her parents’ attention). By the time she was five, her fascination with the family’s upright piano blossomed into formal lessons, thanks to her parents, who were casual piano players themselves. Watching them play always lit a fire in her, and she was determined to create that same magic.

Meet Devonte Pearson, better known in Spokane’s music scene as T.S the Solution—a name that embodies his journey and his vision. Born in Long Beach and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Pearson’s story is one of resilience, dreams, and a beat that never quits. He’s not just a hip-hop artist or an audio engineer; he’s a builder of bridges, a catalyst for collaboration, and the mentor he once wished for in his younger days.

Jesse James talks about his journey from small-town blues enthusiast to Seattle’s music scene, sharing how his self-taught roots shaped his sound and what to expect from his long-awaited album Checkin the Mic.

Somewhere in the Pacific Northwest, ancient mythologies are resurfacing—and Landon Spencer might just be at the heart of it. Converge Music caught up with Spencer about his musical journey and the mythological influences shaping his lyrics.

At just 16 years old, Julie Chang Schulman, aka Julie-C, released her first professional project, “Welcome to my World” with the label Immaculate Flave, a bold entrance into Seattle’s Hip-Hop scene that hinted at her future as both an artist and an activist. But her journey didn’t start in the studio—it began at home, where music was more than a pastime; it was a bridge. With a father who was a musician on the autism spectrum, Julie-C learned early that music could be a powerful way to connect, communicate, and create meaning.

Kimberly Nichole’s journey into rock music was a natural evolution. Early on, while collaborating with a producer who had a strong passion for rock, Nichole was introduced to iconic bands like The Doors, Green Day, and Foo Fighters. Although she had always enjoyed rock, especially being from Seattle, it was during this creative period that her love for the genre truly deepened. The producer also introduced her to blues records, broadening her musical palette.

Raised in a household that he refers to as a "black museum," Shyan Selah was surrounded by an abundance of records, books, art, vinyl, CDs, sports memorabilia, and articles, particularly those reflecting the history of Black culture. His musical journey began in a household deeply immersed in cultural and musical influence.

In 2016, Brandon Phillips and Davon Revis first crossed paths on the set of a music video shoot. Davon had been brought in by a mutual contact to help with the production, a surprise to Brandon, as he hadn’t been informed. Despite the unexpected introduction, the two hit it off and quickly found common ground in their passion for music. Both artists were involved in separate music projects and groups at the time, but it wasn’t long before Davon joined Brandon’s team.

Born Russell Maynard, but to the world he’s known as DJ Infamous Sleepy, began his musical journey dating back to the 90s while being a student at Elizabeth City State University located in North Carolina. While being a full-time student and with a full school schedule, Maynard managed to frame houses and condos, alongside DJ’ing 95% of the college parties on campus.

Fresco Lee was an athlete first and foremost. While growing up, people often remarked on his talent for rapping, but his focus was primarily on sports. At 18, on his way to a studio session at the Southwest Community Center, he was shot in the leg. The injury forced him to set aside basketball and pick up the pen. From that turning point, he committed himself fully to mastering his craft, determined to make every performance and opportunity a testament to his growth as an artist.

Falling in love with music at a young age while listening to greats such as Earth, Wind & Fire, The O’Jays, Stevie Wonder, and Luther Vandross, Jay Dot found music sticking to him like glue. Mimicking sounds without even noticing, his journey since adolescence has been filled with learning more about the art. Understanding what music means while discovering his own talents, Jay Dot has put together an amazing career from his youth to the present day.

LeNard Jones of Goody Bagg was a basketball player before he became a musician. While his primary focus during his youth was basketball, the rich musical environment surrounding him left an enduring impression that would draw him back into the world of music years later.

Toby “Fresh” Campbell, better known as DJ DV One, got his start in DJing through an unexpected twist of fate. Initially aspiring to be a rapper, he was forced to take over DJ responsibilities when his own DJ was incarcerated.