The Seattle music and cultural landscape is witnessing the rise of a multi-talented force. On a recent episode of The Pop-Up! with host The Big O, artist Jwavy stopped by the Black Media Matters studios to discuss her unique artistry, community initiatives, and the philosophy driving her success.

If you didn’t catch artist Gifted Gab on The Pop-Up!, now’s your chance to circle back, because host The Big O laid out the red carpet. As Seattle’s premier hip-hop pioneer, Gab pulled up for an expansive conversation on all things music, culture, and hustle. 

Portland is set to vibrate with energy as the city prepares for the 2026 PDX Hip Hop Week, a week-long celebration dedicated to honoring the impact of Hip Hop culture.

The energy in downtown Seattle's Black Media Matter studio was high when Seattle recording artist Mafi D joined The Pop-Up! The hip-hop artist showed his authenticity, sharing insights on his evolving career, recent national breakthroughs, and the deep brotherhood fueling his rise.

Seattle’s creative landscape is shifting, and Curtis "Cuddy" Delgardo II is right at the epicenter of the movement. The creative executive, artist manager, and producer recently sat down with host The Big O on The Pop-Up!

Zimbabwean American artist Draze has released his new single and visual, “No,” an artistic statement serving as an anthem for freedom and unity.

Philip "Sharp Skills" Jacobs, a multifaceted artist, recently launched The Rebel Residency, the first-ever hip-hop residency in Tacoma, Washington. He recently joined host Trae Holiday on “The Day With Trae” to dive into it. 

Seattle-based artist Envi Jordan recently sat down with host Deaunte Damper on “We Live In Color” to share insights into his musical roots and his upcoming self-titled EP, “Envi.” 

In a historic ceremony at City Hall last month, the city of Portland officially proclaimed November 30th as "DJ OG One Day," honoring local legend David Jackson, known professionally as DJ O.G. ONE. 

At the official listening party for R&B artist Jaymin’s new EP “Sweet Nothings” at Seattle’s Smith Tower last week, Jaymin talked with “Almost The Weekend!” host Curtis Delgardo II about breaking free of his self-imposed musical hiatus and rewiring masculinity with vulnerability and love.  

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.