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. 

Speaking of representing the Emerald City, producer and all around creative Omi Salisbury, who got his start in Seattle, brought this story to life with his creative partner Victor Grisson as VISTA Productions.

During his set, Reed performed his song “SKYISFALLING," which included themes of worry about the state of the world and managing emotional stress. Mid-set, he spoke directly to the audience about the importance of self-care, asking the Chicago crowd to make a promise to prioritize their self-care routines, like skin care, journaling, or meditation. On stage, Reed made it clear his focus as an entertainer was on creating community through music, encouraging the audience to turn to a person they didn't know and take  a few moments to introduce themselves, learn a fun fact, or create a secret handshake.

Reed wrapped up his set with his song "CIRCLE THEORY.” The song required audience participation, a simple call-and-response melody that lyrically addressed Reed’s appreciation for the circle of people he keeps around him. As we close out 2020, his performance at Groundwaves is a reminder to care of ourselves, move forward with strength, and extend human connection to others. 

Check out more of VISTA Productions' work at volunteersinservicetoart.com.