Telling Better Stories the Converge Media Way
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• 7/17/26Marshall Hugh and GZ Radio Bring All-Ages Music to Fremont
Fremont Fridays, founded by Marshall Hugh, is a Seattle-based initiative that makes live music accessible to young people by providing an all-ages stage in partnership with GZ Radio. This platform empowers emerging artists to showcase their talents while fostering an inclusive environment for music lovers of all ages to support the local scene.
The success of the initiative highlights a significant demand for all-ages venues in Seattle and underscores the positive impact of community-driven efforts on artistic expression. With plans to expand across Fremont, Marshall Hugh continues to champion young performers, cementing Fremont Fridays as a vital launchpad for new talent and a celebration of music’s transformative power.
Fremont Fridays happen every Friday all summer long. Learn more and get your tickets at fremontfridaysseattle.com
Learn more about GZ Radio at gzradio.org
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• 7/15/26Washington State Honors Jimi Hendrix with Medal of Merit
Jimi Hendrix, Seattle's own Guitar God, posthumously received the Washington State Medal of Merit, one of the state's highest civilian honors on March 18th, 2025. Decades after his passing in 1970, his enduring influence on music & culture was officially recognized.
The ceremony at the State Capitol saw family members, including his brother Leon Hendrix and niece Tina Hendrix in attendance.
The award, presented posthumously by Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson, was presided over by Secretary of State Steve Hobbs. Governor Bob Ferguson emphasized Hendrix's unique influence, saying, "a legend probably does not do justice to Jimi Hendrix...easily the most influential guitarist of all time."
Secretary of State Steve Hobbs honored Hendrix as "the greatest Electric Guitarist in the history of rock music" and one of the "most influential musicians in the 20th century."
Representative Sharon Tomiko Santos, who nominated Jimi, spoke of his self-taught genius & his impact beyond music, noting his influence on culture, fashion & his ability to connect with audiences.
Leon Hendrix shared personal memories of his brother, recalling their childhood & Jimi's early musical endeavors. He emphasized Jimi's spiritual nature & his role as a messenger whose music inspired movements & challenged societal norms.
Tina Hendrix, founder of the Hendrix Music Academy, emphasized Jimi's artistry and generosity. She highlighted his charitable spirit & the family's ongoing efforts to support the community.
Cousin Anzhane Slaughter & Sam Hendrix, Jimi's great-nephew, spoke about the importance of preserving Jimi's true legacy & ensuring family representation. They highlighted his ability to bring people together & his impact on racial unity, stating that his influence extends far beyond music.
The Medal of Merit honors Jimi Hendrix's lasting impact on Washington State and the world, celebrating his innovative musical style, artistic vision, and cultural significance.
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• 4/12/26Seattle's First Hip-Hop Versus Event with a Live Band Honors Q-Tip and J Dilla
The Royal Room in Seattle's Columbia City neighborhood was transformed into a hub for hip-hop history and celebration last year, thanks to Miss Tish Productions and Tish Gallow.
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• 3/25/26Portland Proclaims November 30th 'DJ OG ONE Day' Honoring Legendary DJ and Community Leader
Back2Besa and FOX 13 Seattle were honored to be present in the Rose City when the Portland City Council proclaimed November 30th as "DJ OG ONE Day," honoring the legendary David Jackson for his 33 years of leadership and dedication to the Pacific Northwest.
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• 12/22/25Portland Hip-Hop Legend Cool Nutz Celebrates His Birthday At Alberta Street Pub
Last year, Portland hip-hop legend Cool Nutz took it back to his roots and celebrated his birthday bash at Alberta Street Pub in NE Portland just blocks from his original studio where he started making music years ago. Family, friends, fans, and supporters from across Portland and as far away as Seattle and Eugene all showed up and showed out to literally give the Rose City rap legend his flowers.
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• 12/13/25Oblé Reed Takes On Chicago With A Message of Self-Care and Community
From the PNW to the midwest, Seattle-born alternative hip hop star Oblé Reed performed for the first time in Chicago in October as a part of the Groundwaves open mic and mentorship program founded by hip hop legend MURS. The open mic has become a launchpad for artists nationwide, and for the first time, it made its debut in Chicago, featuring Reed representing the Emerald City.
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• 10/25/25Jackson Street Jazz Trail: Honoring Seattle’s Musical History One Step At A Time
Seattle jazz has creatively defined the history of the Central District and Jackson Street, and in October 2024, its legacy and prominence was properly preserved with the launch of the Jackson Street Jazz Trail.
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• 10/24/25From Netflix to Inglewood High: D Smoke Champions Community and Hip-Hop Culture
The Eastside Community Center in Tacoma, Washington lit up last summer when “The Change Movement” took over the stage. Created by Innovative Changemakers and Northwest Credible Messenger, the event included rapper D Smoke, seen on Netflix's "Rhythm + Flow" and a teacher at Inglewood High School, who uses his art for community benefit and promoting hip-hop culture.
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• 8/5/25Teen Phenomenon Maya Russell Graces the Black Media Matters Studio
#BlackStarPower - Maya Michelle Russell, the dynamic 17-year-old artist, graced the Black Media Matters studio this morning. We were completely captivated by her live performance of "Soon As I Get Home," a song from her starring role as Dorothy in the upcoming production of "The Wiz".
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More Than a Song: How Cupid Built a Legacy Beyond the "Cupid Shuffle"
#BlackStarPower - Cupid, the king of line dance, sat down with Trae Holiday in the Black Media Matters Studios to discuss his excitement for UmojaFest in Seattle.
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• 5/23/25Akeem Ali Brings Energy and Community to Tacoma
The South Sound was buzzing with energy as rising star Akeem Ali took the stage at Jazzbones in Tacoma. Hosted by the Innovative Change Makers, the event drew a crowd of 400 attendees, all eager to experience a night of music and community building. More than just a concert, this gathering aimed to break stigmas and provide a safe, enjoyable space for adults to connect.
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• 1/17/25Besa Gordon's Call to Action to Support Black Businesses on Good Day Seattle
Yesterday morning, Besa Gordon, host of Back2Besa on FOX 13 Seattle and FOX SOUL, joined Erin Mayovsky on Good Day Seattle to discuss the urgent need to support Black-owned businesses in Puget Sound. Gordon's appearance was a passionate call to action, highlighting the struggles these businesses face and outlining ways the community can help.
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• 11/18/24New Jazz Trail Celebrates Seattle's Musical History
Seattle's Jackson Street Jazz Trail is a fantastic new way to experience the city's rich musical heritage! This self-guided walking tour takes you through the heart of the historic Jackson Street area, where jazz once thrived.
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• 10/4/24Let's Talk Choklate: The Woman, Her Music, Her Mission
Let’s talk about Choklate, and no I’m not talking about the savory treat. I’m talking about the legendary singer Choklate who took Seattle, and beyond by storm with her soulful, voice on some of her most popular songs like Bigger Than You, and Gettin’ Is Good.
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• 7/17/24Young and Talented Showcase: Seattle's Rising Stars Shine
Earlier this month, the Black and Tan Hall in South Seattle was the scene of an extraordinary event: the Young and Talented showcase. This unique concert, put on for kids by kids, highlighted the musical prowess of some incredibly gifted young performers.
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• 7/16/24South Sound Music Festival: A Celebration of Local Talent and Community Spirit
The South Sound Music Festival, now in its third year, recently concluded another successful event in Tacoma, Washington. This vibrant celebration brought together a diverse mix of artists, vendors, and community members for a day filled with music, food, and fun.
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• 7/9/24Ground Zero Radio Spotlights Black Stax at Metier Brewing Company
Ground Zero Radio (GZR) was on the scene at Metier Brewing Company in Seattle to celebrate Black Music Month with a special live podcast interview featuring Black Stax, legends in the Seattle Hip Hop scene.
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• 5/31/2424kGoldn on why he burned all his music awards and breaking attachments to fame
Besa Gordon first interviewed 24kGoldn back in 2019 when she was still a radio host for KUBE 93. Back then, 24kGoldn was only like 18 years old and was promoting his song Valintino which had just begun to pick up steam on the radio charts.
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• 3/1/24
The Pulse of Portland: Too Short at the Roseland Theater
On a buzzing Friday night, Portland's Roseland Theater was the epicenter of an electrifying atmosphere, hosting a sold-out concert featuring the legendary Too Short and Portland's very own Cool Nutz. The lineup was stellar, with Mikey Vegas, Juma Blaq, DJ Fatboy, and Bad Habit setting the stage on fire, creating an unforgettable night for the city's live music aficionados.
