It All Begins Here

Last night on The Pop-Up!, host The Big O was joined by Seattle-based creative executive Curtis "Cuddy" Delgardo II and recording artist Mafi D for a look into the Pacific Northwest music scene. They recapped their recent trip to New York City, explored the inspiration behind Mafi D’s “On The Radar” verse, and discussed Cuddy's work with the Cuddy Management Group to elevate local talent on a national stage.

From defining the Seattle hip-hop sound to looking ahead at their upcoming industry plans, this episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about PNW culture and community impact.

In last night’s episode of The Pop-Up!, host The Big O sat down with Seattle-based multi-disciplinary artist Damon Brown, also known as Creative Lou, to discuss his journey as a creator and advocate. Together, they dove into how Damon’s designs anchor local spaces, including the Black Media Matters Studio, and explore the intersection of art and community advocacy. Damon also spoke on the importance of supporting small businesses through initiatives like Intentionalist's Special Edition Buy Black Card, which he designed.

Friday night on The Pop-Up Presents: All My Friends Are Dope, host Erik Kalligraphy sat down with two respected voices in Seattle hip-hop, Justin Pinder and LA, for a conversation that goes beyond music. From the importance of third spaces like 3P, Hidmo, The Fair, and Ancient Grounds to the evolution of Seattle’s creative community, they explored the experiences, relationships, and lessons that helped shape their journeys.

The trio also dove into artist development, How2Listen, battle rap, and the legacy of community spaces that helped build a generation. They also premiered “Payback,” the new single from Pinder and LA, and take a deeper look into the project behind the music, the creative process, and what they hope listeners take away from it.

All My Friends Are Dope is about getting a different perspective on the people shaping culture—not just their art, but their mind, creative process, and legacy.

Tune in Friday at 9 PM and tap into the conversation.

Friday night on The Pop-Up!, Tacoma media professional and culture curator, Elisha Michelle, was back in the hosting seat for another Tacoma Takeover episode. Elisha, the visionary behind The Legendary Dope Show and the Legendary AF brand, spotlighted two renowned artists from the 253: KGodd and Sentu Taylor.

KGodd is a Federal Way, Washington-based artist bringing authentic West Coast flavor to the forefront. Versatile in his craft but rooted in that signature West Coast sound, KGodd is building momentum with his sights set on a global stage. With new music on the way, he’s just getting started on putting his city where it belongs: on the map.

Sentu Taylor is a Tacoma-bred creative entrepreneur whose work sits at the intersection of art, culture, and community. As the founder of the clothing brand “Random Idiot,” Sentu built a brand around the idea that self-awareness beats self-absorption, symbolized by a lightbulb wearing a dunce cap. Sentu is a published author, film writer, blogger, and graphic designer.

Last night on The Pop-Up!, host Omari Salisbury welcomed Elisheba Wokoma, Co-Executive Director of Wa Na Wari, and play director Jacqueline Ware for a conversation on the state of Black art in Seattle and local headlines, community, and culture. They talked about Mayor Katie Wilson’s recent decisions along Lake Washington, potential new zoning requirements in the Central District, and the opening of ARTE NOIR’s new exhibition honoring the Black Panthers.

This weekend, Wa Na Wari is hosting the Black Graduation Art Fair Saturday, May 30th, and Sunday, May 31st. Also on Saturday, Ware’s new play “Second Chance House” debuts at The Sanctuary: RBPC.

On a special Tacoma Takeover episode of “The Pop-Up!,” guest host Elisha Michelle, a culture curator, returned to the Black Media Matters Studio. Elisha is back with all her people—a hand-picked lineup of the 253's most influential entrepreneurs, artists, and community pillars—to bring that signature "Legendary" energy to the airwaves.

Lineup Highlights:

Cinnamon Jovan: The published author of Drink Your Beauty and host of the CJ: Unfiltered podcast kicks off the night to discuss self-expression and helping others find authenticity.

India Irons: Executive Director of Fearless Dance Studio and a Christian Therapist and Mental Health Clinician, India will share how she merges faith and mental health to connect with Tacoma’s youth, and why dance is a vital tool for community connection.

Don Pizzle: Hip-hop artist and founder of A.O.S Clothing discusses his new album, P.O.L.O, and dives into the sounds and latest trending news from the Tacoma hip-hop scene.

LROC: Elisha’s co-host and co-founder of LX3 Entertainment, LROC is breaking down "Marketing 101" and sharing insights on building a media empire.

Dieon Lister & Donald "DJ" Taber: Representing Black Royalty Promotions and Hydro Liph, they discuss curating safe spaces, developing synergy, and the health benefits of alkaline water.

Akeil "Mack" Richardson: The artist and founder of The Stronger Family Foundation closes the night by speaking on the importance of family and community, plus sharing updates on his upcoming projects.

The Pop-Up! was thrilled to welcome Jazz From Seattle to discuss the 23rd annual Seattle Black Film Festival at LANGSTON. This year’s festival, themed "The Sound of Us," is a tribute to the auditory heartbeat of the Black experience, showcasing how music and spoken word translate to the big screen.

Joining the conversation is community leader Melvin Slaughter (also known as Mr. Solutions for Seattle), who will be breaking down the details for his upcoming Solutions for Seattle event taking place this Sunday.