This three-day event will highlight both the academic and artistic aspects of Hip Hop culture. Hip Hop is not just a one-dimensional art-form; its a rich cultural movement constantly evolving the spirit of expression.
Activities will include a Summit Launch, Panel Discussion, Documentary Screening, Rap Battle, Student Showcase, Rising Artists Concert, and a performance featuring critical acclaimed Hip Hop artist Killer Mike!
The schedule of events is as follows:
Thursday, April 10th
Summit Launch Event : 2:00-4:00 PM
Location: African American Cultural Center, Student Union
FIRST THINGS FIRST! The Launch will feature live Break Dancing from the UConn Break Dancing Club, featured artwork and presentations from UConn students, and a Rap Cypher!
"Hip Hop Matters" Panel Discussion: 6:00-8:00 PM
Location: William Benton Museum of Art
Focusing on the past, present, and future of hip hop as an artistic form and as a site of sociopolitical critique, this panel brings together industry players, community organizers, and hip hop scholars to think about where hip hop has been and - more important - where it is going. Panelists include William Jelani Cobb (UConn), Dom McLennon (Artist, ASF), Daniel "Skid" Mitchell (A&R, Bad Boy Entertainment) Jeffrey Ogbar (UConn), Cathy-Schlund-Vials (UConn), Otto Williams (Executive Producer, Behind the Unsigned).
Friday, April 11th
"Something From Nothing: Art of Rap" Movie Screening & Discussion: 4:30-7:00 PM
Location: Puerto Rican / Latin-American Cultural Center (PRLACC), Student Union
In this acclaimed Hip Hop documentary, Ice-T takes viewers on an intimate journey into the heart and soul of Hip Hop with the legends of rap music to explore what goes on inside the minds of the grand masters of rap. A facilitated discussion will follow the movie screening.
Rap Battle: 7:00-8:00 PM
Location: Student Union Ballroom
You know what to expect! Eight battle ready rappers will compete against each other to win a $200 prize and bragging rights!
Student Showcase: 8:30-10:00 PM
Location: Student Union Ballroom
A great blend of alternative and traditional hip-hop performances! Eight students from campus will friendly compete against each other by performing their best work in front of judges!
Rising Artist Concert: 10:30-12:00 AM
Location: Student Union Ballroom
Watch four acts from around the East Coast perform and put on a great show! The show will feature AroyoSoReal, MattViolinist, Dutch ReBelle & ASF.
Saturday, April 12th
WHUS Presents Killer: 8:00-11:00 PM
Location: Student Union Ballroom
Hosted by the great people at WHUS Radio, come and witness the critically acclaimed hip-hop artist Killer Mike rock the stage! (Doors open at 8PM, show starts at 9PM, Killer Mike goes on at 10PM).
For more information, contact: Jordan Turner at uconnhiphopsummit@gmail.com