What a time to be alive! Milwaukee Film Fest 2019 (CopyWrite Magazine Perspective)

*All images from https://mkefilm.org/

Doing media coverage on film events is probably one of the most abstract task we encounter at CopyWrite. There are several ways to approach film content, including criticizing its cinematography, storyline, and the way in which it evokes emotion. Though we have strong opinions [ & we are unapologetic about them], for Milwaukee Film Festival 2019, we thought we would take a more strategic approach to our coverage. Using an Urban Creative Cultural scope to flesh out the relevance of the content and what it says about our placement in society.

“Urban Creative Culture” for these purposes includes city living, artistic expression, explicit depictions of people of color [by people of color], and the cultural dynamics that link them all together. These are the topics we are knowledgeable about, and therefore feel comfortable speaking upon #StayInYourLane.

To further cultivate or perspective, we also invited Fine Artist/ Arts Educator/ Art & Culture Consultant Vedale Hill [who also made an appearance in Milwaukee Film Fest 2018 in the Invisible Lines docuseries presented by 88Nine Radio Milwaukee] to tag along with us, for his brazen cultural insight. Milwaukee Film Festival has quite a diverse spread of content [which we love], that intertwines with many of our interests. When curating a list of films/ content to view at this year’s festival, we wanted to make sure that all aspects were looked at with the same importance regardless of our familiarity with the content or artistic formate used. After two weeks of visual indulgence, here is what we have to say:

Boss: The Black Experience in Business (Director: Stanley Nelson)

We have a lot to be thankful for. Our [Black] foremothers and forefathers paved the way for us working with the “system” so that we could have the momentum to work without it and against it. Boss: The Black Experience in Business, documents the historical and contemporary relevance of “Black innovation, entrepreneurship, and perseverance in an economy determined to exclude them” (mkefilm.org). As Black wealth and its impact on the United States economy has become a recurring theme in today's political and social climate, the origins of our “late” economic bloomage has been called into question. Where Stanley Nelson helps identify a linkage between the emancipation of slaves to the systemic need to subdue the success of the Black entrepreneur, we were in awe of its similarities to the call for economic inclusion Byron Allen recently brought up in his Breakfast Club interview.

While it is easy for us to stand in our current reality boasting how “We are not our grandparents”, and hissing at the idea of physical and blatant social control over our lives, our ancestors lived in a different world. They had to navigate differently to create the spaces in which the rest of us now thrive.

If we take Madame CJ Walker as an example, we can see how even some of our most noted Black success stories come from a place of cultural compromise. As the film discusses, Walker became the first self-made woman millionaire from helping other Black women assimilate.  Though that created a wedge within the community, it also emboldened women into a thriving new industry (one we still dominate in today) promoting pride and beauty, even though it was skewed from our natural attraction, and reinforced White cultural standards.

Learning our history helps bolster our confidence.

Boss reinforces us with the power we need to make changes, lead instead of following and demand more economic freedom from a society undoubtedly helped shape. We are constantly told that we don't work hard enough for the opportunities that are presented to us. When in actuality each turn we have made with progress, we have been purposely set back through lynching, massacres, and vandalization of Black business and its leaders. 

As we sit in an era with more education, more infiltration of infrastructures that were made to keep us out, this documentary is a wake-up call for not just Black America, but for our privileged counterparts. We will not only be taking a seat at the table, but we will be making our own. 

As CopyWrite is a Black-owned business . . . we feel that!

The Milwaukee Music Video Show

The only thing better than local music is local music videos! In today's super mediated climate visuals are everything. Where music becomes the soundtrack to our lives, the videos become the storyboard for all of the metaphors, juxtapositions and WTF's we didn't catch. 

This is our favorite part of Milwaukee Film Fest every year because we get the opportunity to see collaboration in full effect. Musicians/Singers/Producers/Lyricist collaborating with directors, illustrators, make-up artist, set designers, [animal trainers?] and the like. Many of these videos we only get to see on our phones, computers and possibly a large screen smart TV if you're lucky. But bringing them into the cinema gives a whole different type of aura. One that is simply larger than life. 

The lineup of music videos where diverse [but where they diverse enough? We still are not sure]. Some content even challenged us to define what are the qualifications of a music video in general. Is it just visuals that accompany audio production? [Hey Milwaukee Film Fest Officials please send over the submission requirements. We would like to share them with a few folks]. 

It revealed three things:

1. Many local musicians are commenting on social shifts and identity. These music videos, therefore, become controversial platforms.

2. We don’t know who the target audience or the target producers of the content are? “Call for Entries” does not give out any of that information. 

3. We still don’t know what qualifies as a music video!!! 

We have to be critical here. We heard good music with bad visuals and sonically odd tracks with ocular delight. There were moments of budget versus skill and some “Ooooo their popular, let's put them in” fugazi. But there was also some really cool artistry that we didn't expect. 

S/O to:

FUZZYSURF - "DENNY" (now we all want to be a [put a “m” here]-uppet)

WILLIE HUMBLES - "SCIFLY" (we are rocking with the afrofuturism)

ZED KENZO - "FRESH" (For the unapologetic personality)

VIOLENT FEMMES - "I'M NOTHING" (this is the most locally relevant and socially conscious music video in the line up #ClapFor’em).

As we #SupportTheLocal opportunity for true growth and true communal representation has to be prioritized. Without even mentioning it in name, we all know that one specific genre of music and thus music videos are the most influential, most consumed, and most referenced content globally. However, those music videos only made up less than 25% of the videos shown. The math doesn't add up. So it becomes another conversation we need to have. Who are the gatekeepers of The Milwaukee Music Video Program? How are you reaching out for submission? Is this really a representation of MILWAUKEE music? Ehhhhh it’s questionable. 

Premature (Director: Rashaad Ernesto Green)

Who doesn't love a good coming of age story? They tend to remind us of our own naivety, youthful mistakes, and loss of inhibition. But many of them are now outdated. The world has changed drastically over the last decade. Technology, social positioning, and gender politics are at an all-time high. Which changes the narrative of what it means to enter adulthood. Premature is a polished, production of alternate means of “maturing” in today's Black America.

Premature is right on time in an era where Roe v. Wade is at the risk of being overturned, there is a higher concentration of women of color attending college and Black love is being idolized. It has more insight into this stage of transition than the media usually depicts. 

Green, takes a risk in putting these intimate moments on display reminding us that every story has two sides. Its poetic narration adds another layer of artistic expression. It serves as that voice in our head that holds wisdom that we can not tap into until the damage has already been done. 

Furthermore, it plays into the motif of the Black Community, and each "characters" role within it. They say "It takes a village". But that village is not without flaw. The loudmouth friend, the slick-talking ex, the disappointed hypocritical mother, the uber promiscuous girl with the 3+ kids she always needs a babysitter, they all appear as archetypal reminders. We found so much of ourselves in this film because it is our story. 

As people of color how we display our story has power. We appreciate how Premature as a film places the power back in truth.

Vision Portraits (Director: Rodney Evans)

We often take for granted our senses. They are just so embedded in our day to day lives that we never really anticipate what it would be like to wake up without them. Vision Portraits takes us through the lives of several artists (film director Evans himself, a photographer, a dancer, and a writer) and discusses how vision or the deterioration of vision, affects artistry. 

What is enticing about this film and the work of the subjects chosen, is the fact that had they not revealed they had compromising vision, we would have never known. It proves that you don't need vision to have sight or sight to have vision. The exercise that blacks out the screen and ask you to close your eyes while someone lists off words [example: Mother, red balloon, theater, flower, street lights, snowflakes] proves that once you have seen something, that image stays with you. 

As artist and art lovers the fear of not having sight has always seemed crippling. The idea of being disabled as a creative turns into a push for independence and also a subject that then becomes projected into your art. It changes you, and it seems as though being conscious of that change is the part that is liberating. 

It is niche, but that niche-ness makes it a film for everybody. It is informative, thought-provoking and dare we say it cast light into the darkness. We applaud Evans for using his own journey and vulnerability to create something that means more than what meets the eye.

The Remix: Hip Hop X Fashion (Director: Lisa Cortés, Farah X)

If we have to pick a favorite film for this year’s coverage there is only one contender. Coming from an Urban Creative Cultural perspective, The Remix: Hip Hop X Fashion checks all of our boxes. With its thorough depiction of both contemporary and historical contributions to the most influential genre/industry in the world it inspired, it informed, and it elated.

Remixing is vital to Black culture and is at the very roots of hip hop. The crossover between music and fashion is one that is usually portrayed as happenstance instead of innovatively designed. Lisa Cortés and Farah X direct us to not just the people but the matriarchs that are responsible for the iconography of hip hop that we still harp on, bite at, and praise to this day. It gave us a dosage of something that we needed but didn’t know we wanted. Who knew that the innovators of hip hop were women? Who knew that Misa Hylton and April Walker, were behind the trends that undoubtedly changed how we dress and express ourselves? Right up there with Dapper Dan [Gucci stand back], Hylton and Walker are entering our lexicon of [hip hop] fashion legends, along with Kerby Jean-Raymond. Now nothing will ever be the same.

With its candid interviews and curation of iconic/archived images, The Remix: Hip Hop X Fashion, is important to the “culture” and its current social climate. It also plays into the global phenomenon of what hip hop fashion and culture has become by telling its origin story through the perspective of those who made the history. These producers of style not only gave an alternative lens to ethnic American beauty, but it also fortifies the economic prowess that black design has created.

April Walker (of Walker Wear) & Lexi S. Brunson (CopyWrite Magazine Editor-in-Chief)

We were honored with the presence of April Walker, creator of Walker Wear [and as far as we are concerned the creator of the baggy jean suit] on the last day of the film viewing. She commented on her choice of hiding her identity as a female designer of a male fashion line, as one that she still stands behind to this day. It triggers us to note, that in reality people even in today’s age of “equality” are still skeptical or dumbfounded by the fact that women are innovators and indispensable contributors to our culture. These “Mothers of style” birthed the hip hop look and still at this point don't get the recognition they deserve. 

It is clearer than ever before that behind every great man, there has always been an even greater woman. The Remix: Hip Hop X Fashion should serve as an inspiration to treat our creators better and pay homage to those who have made being “us” an image to die for. 

(Seen In that order)

What a time to be alive! Urban Creative Culture is thriving, relevant, and sparking all kinds of conversations. We were inspired, a little aggravated, amazed, confused and enthralled. 

That combination is vital for a good film festival experience. So all in all, we urge that if you didn't attend this year, you make sure you join us in the years to come. There is always room to grow. There are always more stories to tell. There will always be more art to consume. We need this in our city. We need this in our world.

/CopyWrite (From the notes of Lexi S. Brunson & Vedale Hill)

Bring In The New: MPL Live Rap Battle (Press Write Up)

“We want the young generation”

As we never stop jammin’ to the old school beats, thanking our present old heads for setting a course and making a way, we have to make room for the green.  DJ Bizzon repeatedly emphasized, “We want the young generation”. That is what the Milwaukee Public Library Live Rap Battle was all about.

The drive of the old making a way for the new was further emphasized by the setting: the limestone decked out Central Library. Opening October 3rd, 1898 on land dubbed Mozart’s Grove, because the site was the gathering place for summer concerts, the library is reaching back to its roots of musical noise. MPL premiered what (hopefully) will be an annual Live Rap Battle. The event included a raffle for DJ equipment, an interactive DJ station, V100 giveaways, and merch. The crowd was mixed, and we definitely enjoyed watching the babies in attendance working the DJ station.

Now to these artists. These young cats (ages 16 - 21) were all different, putting their spin on the music of the people. In order of appearance:

1.  EL' BANG (Elliott B.) - dropped the story

https://youtu.be/XUaeaPNDqXw

2.  BIG MACK (Maquian J., 19) - dropped the vibes

https://youtu.be/WDfFP4B5esk

3.  BRENTON LEVY - dropped the chill

https://soundcloud.com/brentonlevy/gone

4.  RB VIC (Victor B., 16) - dropped the stuntin’

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BggnsDwJqQo

5.  TIMBOLONEON THE GREAT (Timothy V.) - dropped the crowd catchers

https://vimeo.com/357474983

6.  RICHIE BUZ (Richard N.) - dropped the knowledge

https://soundcloud.com/richiebuz/big-meech-big-pharma-prod-p

7.  JC KROUPA - dropped the swag

https://youtu.be/_8aY78XJeHc

8.  KING SWYFT (Malik W., 16) - dropped the fast flow

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpFZZ1NhfZA#action=share

The battle wasn’t your traditional diss battle, but focused on artist performance overall (crowd engagement, and auditory swag). This meant less about bringing down rap rivals, and more about merit.  We saw the artists uplifting each other, watch each other, and learn from each other. And the crowd participation was mad positive! Community is about the youth and elders coming together. #SuppotTheLocal

So thank you Milwaukee Public Library for making strides to include.

Thank you judges WebsterX (songwriter/recording artist, co-founder of Freespace, and board member of The New State), DJ Loop (founder/host of Fresh & Direct WMSE 91.7FM, and co-instructor of Scratch Sessions South), and IshDARR (world toured artist) for your guidance.

Thank you host DJ Bizzon (Education Director at 88NINE Radio Milwaukee, and member of Vocalo Radio) for your hype. 

Thank you DJ Fly Ty (16-year-old professional DJ, and member of V100.7 Milwaukee Mix Squad) for keeping us going with familiar jams.

And thank you to our people at 88Nine for spreading the noise.

Let us continue to elevate. We are strengthened by our foundations but we rise with our additions.

Nehaya for /CW

Is Spyware Illegal: Tech Safety Tips for Domestic Violence Survivors

It is Domestic Violence awareness month, so we thought we give you some helpful tips for Domestic Violence Survivors in the hope that you stay safe even while using your digital devices.

All information provided by our friends at www.techwarn.com

Image from pixabay.com

Technology can be both helpful and devastating in a number of ways. Many spouses have at one point thought about spying on their partners, but is spyware illegal? Is there a law that protects spying? Well, in the US, the Espionage Act was passed in 1917 to prevent military interference. Together with other regulations, the Espionage Act protects privacy and explains the situations where spying is illegal. 

Obtaining information about someone without consent or forcefully or tricking people to disclose personal info are all unlawful. The situation is even dire when the information is passed to foreign governments. 

Spyware Laws: Spying Software Legality

Many countries have laws and rules that guide spying. In some countries, you can use software to spy on others, but the universal right of privacy under the Bill of Rights still reigns supreme. So, spyware can be either legal or illegal depending on a number of factors. For instance, the government can infringe on your right to privacy to ensure national security. They use technology (software) to spy on citizens and foreign governments with the sole purpose of protecting their citizens. 

Similarly, parents can spy on their kids to keep them safe. As a parent, it’s your responsibility to offer security and guidance to your little ones online.

If you are using any software to supervise your employees without their consent, then it is illegal. The gadget needs corporate understanding, and the staff members must agree to the spying. Generally, the law allows for consensual monitoring. So, spyware is legal as long as you’re doing it on the right person, it is your garget, and/or the target has agreed to be surveilled.

Having said that, the real challenge is that most people don’t buy spying software for legal purposes only. A good portion of customers buys spyware apps to illegally monitor their spouses. Spyware companies are smart in that they include a legal disclaimer that it is up to you to utilize the app within the legal frameworks.

How to Safeguard Yourself from Spyware

So, as a domestic violence survivor, there are so many steps you can take to protect yourself from illegal spying by your abuser. Here are just a few:

Be Cautious When Surfing the Internet

The best way to protect yourself from spyware is not to download it in the first place. More often, spyware is installed on your computer or smartphone when you visit infected or malicious websites. Always exercise caution with links to unknown websites. Again, only download software from trusted websites. However, if someone else installed spyware on your device, consider running an antispyware program to clear any infiltration. For smartphones, resetting to factory settings could help.

Look Out For Pop-Ups

When browsing the internet, malware can lure you into downloading and installing spyware on your computer. Be careful when windows pop up on your browser. Do not just click or agree to any pop-up alert. Clicking on these links will install malware on your device. Press Alt + F4 to select the red corner and close these pop-up alerts.

Update your Operating System

Regular system updates come with significant benefits like improved security. Like most antivirus solutions, failure to keep your operating system up to date can make your PC vulnerable to the latest spyware threats. Make sure that your computer has Automatic Updates feature turned on to have it automatically download and install the latest security updates whenever they are released.

By following these tech safety steps, you can significantly decrease the chances of someone infiltrating your device with spyware. However, if you suspect that your device is already compromised, it’s a good idea to have a professional sweep it for bugs and other hidden surveillance apps or GPS trackers.

TechWarn for /CW

LUNA Art Collective; Am I Latina Enough?

*info provided by Luna MKE

Am I Latina Enough?

Milwaukee, WI – September 11th, 2019. Am I Latina enough? is a question often voiced from new members entering Latinas Unidas en las Artes, otherwise known as LUNA – a Latinx art collective based in Milwaukee, WI. We will be answering this question directly as a part of our next group exhibition, HOOPS, opening on September 12th at Urban Ecology Menomonee Valley from 5pm-7pm and this October/November in our Pop Up MKE temporary space on S. Cesar Chavez Drive.

Hoop earrings are tied to Latinx identity and symbolize anything from strength to culture & tradition to ritual. Most LUNA members grew up wearing them as a second skin, and there are some members who did not. Does this make them any less Latina? Latinx identity is layered and complex, and each member is on their own journey towards reconnecting with their roots. To be a Latinx artist in today’s world means we’re constantly working to reject stigmas, that we’re unwavering in the pursuit of inclusive and safe spaces, that we refuse to conform for others’ comfortability and we won’t stand for diluting and policing of our ethnicities, cultures and traditions.

Some artists have been hesitant to join because: “I don’t speak Spanish, am I Latina enough?” or “I’m half Latina, can I still join?” and even, “I just moved to Milwaukee, and I’m trying to find other Latina artists.” The answer will always be YES. No matter your background, being a part of LUNA not only challenges and pushes you artistically but allows for difficult conversations that are often not talked about in Latinx spaces. Many of these discussions have driven our shows themes, who we’re inviting into the group and also who we choose as partners. Many of LUNA’s members have been shut out of art conversations and galleries but together we’ve created spaces that are inclusive and empower each other to celebrate and take pride in our Latinx identities. 

We’re excited to announce our partnership with the Cesar Chavez BID,Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiativeand the Pop Up MKE program. Beginning this October LUNA will run a small art gallery space and store located at 1037 S. Cesar Chavez Drive. This gallery will also house art studios for collective members to create art and hold art workshops for the community. Please join us on September 16th at 6pm for the Pop Up MKE Launch Party for a special meet & greet with LUNA and to learn more about our new residency with Pop Up MKE. 

“I used to think that identifying as Latina was a series of checks and boxes. Not consciously, but deep down. Anytime I met someone Latina it was obvious. They spoke Spanish. They had an accent. They have traditions. They have roots.”-Lauren WilliamsAm I Latina Enough?is question always at the forefront of our group. And through the HOOPS show and now as a POP UP MKE resident on S. Cesar Chavez Drive, we intend to continue the exploration of our Latinidad within the community and through our art. 

*Latinas Unidas en las Artes (LUNA) is a collective made of diverse Latinx artists based in Milwaukee, WI. For more information regarding upcoming shows, partnerships or bookings please contact us at lunamkeofficial@gmail.comYou can also follow us on social media @lunkamkeofficial. 

Hip-Hop Hooray: A Beer-Line Trail Tale (Music on The BLT Post-Press Release)

“La Di Da Di, we likes to party. We don't cause trouble, we don't bother nobody.”

Heyyy, hooo! Heyy, hooo! HaHa

Hip-Hop definitely brings out the best of us and makes us all have a good time, which is why we were excited for this years Hip Hop Week MKE. This was the second year of the groundbreaking week that “celebrates Hip-Hop through the lens of Financial Literacy, Health and Civic Engagement,” all of which are important to know within our culture. 

One specific Hip-Hop Week event that shed light on a less talked about issue in Milwaukee, was the “Music On The BLT” and no, we’re not talkin’ ‘bout your classic Bacon, Lettuce & Tomato honey! This event, presented by Riverworks, was held on Holton Street on the Beer-Line Trail, bringing the communities of the Riverwest and Harambee neighborhoods together. Corey Pieper, Shle Berry, Jazzaveli and DJ Nu Styles were all on the lineup to perform on this family friendly evening. There were food trucks, drinks, and face painting for the kids, so there was something there for people of all ages. 

Now there’s no secret that there is a disconnect between these two neighborhoods due to gentrification, which is why organizations like Riverworks tries to figure out unique ways to bring them together. Riverworks brings opportunities to the Riverwest and Harambee area through workforce, job development, also programs and services around financial literacy and creative place making. Creative place making brings the community together around their culture, interests and likes. Having an event during Hip-Hop Week was a great opportunity for that to happen because entertainment draws the people...and I mean, what brings people together more than music and food?? 

Darryl Johnson, the Executive Director of Riverworks, says each community has a different set of issues they deal with. For example, the Harambee neighborhood has more concerns about vacant and boarded properties, unemployment and crime, which also spills over into different neighborhoods. He says what’s needed to bridge the gap between these two communities is communication.

“Let’s have that dialogue and break what we call this “Holy Street Divide” down and start dealing with the issues of really communicating with each other about issues that impact our lives and how we can work together to make Milwaukee a better city,” Darryl said. “These are two great neighborhoods. I always say that we have the two best neighborhoods in the city of Milwaukee (Riverwest and Harambee), because they understand and they work toward communicating and working together to make change in the city of Milwaukee.” 

The crowd at Music On The BLT was very diverse, with what you would assume were residents from both the Riverwest and Harambee neighborhoods. However, after speaking with a few attendees, that was not necessarily the case. 

Tom and Amy Gutowski brought their daughter Ollie to the BLT event right after work. They said they live in the Riverwest neighborhood about five blocks away from the BLT and wanted to see what it was about, so they walked right over. They heard about it through 88.9 Radio Milwaukee and Urban Milwaukee. Plus they are fans of Shle Berry and never saw her perform before, so they figured it would be a great opportunity. And even though they were there for Shle Berry, they were living their best lives during all of the performances lol.

John Fitzgerald was another attendee, and he also said that he lives in the Riverwest neighborhood and walked over for the show. He’s also good friends with DJ Nu Styles so he came to show support. I saw him eating some bomb smelling jamaican food too, so that could’ve been another reason for attending (or maybe that’s just me always letting food be a reason for me to do anything lol). John was very candid with me when I brought up the topic of gentrification and the gap between the two areas. He mentioned the visible divide in class, race and crime, the rise in rent/property tax and him noticing more roads being done, bike trails being added and police presence in certain areas. I asked him how does he think the people feel who live in both areas and he says it depends on who you ask because one person isn’t speaking for an entire group. 

“It’s inevitable for people to not like the changes when they feel like they’re imposing on them,” John said. “But hopefully events like this help that and bring it together. People coming together is good and not too many neighborhoods could pull this off. It’s beautiful.”

As far as the Harambee residents, a lot of them were not present. But to keep my credibility I will say it’s possible I didn’t talk to the right people. For the people I spoke with who were Black, because yes I assumed the Black people there were coming from the Harambee side, they weren’t from the area. They heard about this Hip-Hop Week event through Instagram, were showing support for the performers or attended because their friends were there. However, Lavelle Young was one person who was there for all of the above. Lavelle, who gave us his new official title as community builder (you heard it here first), and is spearheading the redevelopment project of the MLK Library, grew up in the Harambee area around King Drive and Locust Street. He says the biggest change he has seen on King Drive is that right now the prices in the area are going up. This is a good thing but he says, “We [Blacks] don’t want to be displaced too.”

“Gentrification is real, I see it everyday,” Lavelle said. “But Harambee is a strong community that is woke, conscious and committed.”

When it came to the performance lineup, we loved the mixed group of Hip-Hop artists. We already did a pre-interview with a few of the performers who hit the stage (make sure y’all check that out btw), but I also wanted to speak with Shle Berry, who was a clear fan-favorite, to see how she felt about being included in the lineup and the gap between the two neighborhoods.

“I’m a woman, gay and bi-racial so I’m trying to bridge a lot of gaps,” Shle Berry said. “I bring a unique story to the scene.”

Shle Berry said Hip-Hop is the most authentic form of expression she’s ever experienced, which is why she pursued it. Because of the way it makes her feel. “It’s so political. You can talk about uncomfortable shit...and I’ve got some shit to say,” she said. Shle Berry says with Hip-Hop you can talk about vulnerable things thinking you’re alone and then find out you’re not. It’s all relatable.

And that’s just it. Hip-Hop is relatable. Music is relatable. It’s something everyone from any background can come together for. Which is why the “Music On The BLT” event during Hip-Hop Week was a great way to keep these conversations going. Just from the attendees I talked to, it’s clear people are willing to talk about what’s going on in the community. And we all know these concerns aren’t only happening in these two specific areas. Milwaukee by itself is known to be the most segregated city in the country. And of course this one event isn’t going to make us all join hands and sing “Kumbaya”, however, it’s a step. And by continuing to be open and honest with one another about what’s going on and having real conversations about the issues, there’s hope for not just Riverwest and Harambee, but for all the communities in Milwaukee to follow in their example. 

Shout-out to Milwaukee for making this important week happen. And man, just shout-out to Hip-Hop.

U.N.I.T.Y. that's a #unity!

/Carrie for CW

Carvd N Stone Inc. Announces Three Scholarships Worth $1,000 Each!

*information provided about Carvd N StoneCarvd N Stone Inc. Announces Three Scholarships for this

2019 Fall Worth $1,000 Each to Wisconsin Students and Creatives

Deadline to apply is Sept. 30, 2019 

MILWAUKEE (Sept. 1, 2019)—Carvd N Stone Inc., for the first time ever, will be giving away three scholarships valued at $1,000 each this 2019 Fall through their CNS 2019 Scholarship Fund.

The first scholarship will be given to a Milwaukee Public Schools college-bound graduating senior or freshman in college that has graduated from Milwaukee Public Schools. The student must have one letter of recommendation; must have been involved in at least one extracurricular throughout their high school career, for at least one semester; must be planning to attend college or currently in their freshman year of college; and write a one-page essay about who they are as a person and what they plan on using the money for.

The second scholarship will be given to a creator who lives in Milwaukee and is 17-25 years old—creator is open to anyone who creates. For example, someone who creates music or creates stories will be considered for this scholarship. The creator must submit at least three examples of their work; send in a written piece, video, graphic or type of artwork that depicts why they’re applying for this scholarship; and a statement of what they plan on using the money for.

The third scholarship will be given to either a college-bound graduating senior or freshman in college, or creator who is 17-25 years old—this category is open to applicants who live in Wisconsin or have graduated from a Wisconsin high school. If student, must have two letters of recommendation; must have been involved in at least one extracurricular throughout their high school career, for at least one full year; must be planning to attend college or currently in their freshman year of college; and must write a two-page essay about their aspirations and what they plan on using the money for. If creator, must be 17-25 years old; must submit four examples of their work, must send in a written piece, video, graphic or type of artwork that depicts why they’re applying for the scholarship; and a statement of what they plan on using the money for.

Each submission will be looked over by a panel of judges who will pick the scholarship recipients. All scholarship recipients will be awarded a check in their name at the CNS 2019 Scholarship Fund Ceremony to be held in October of 2019.

 All components of the application must be completed and turned in before the deadline or applicant will not be considered for the scholarship. Applicants are only allowed to apply for one scholarship.

To apply for the CNS 2019 Scholarship Fund, click here or visit http://bit.ly/cns2019scholarship. The deadline to apply is September 30, 2019 at noon.

For more information on the CNS 2019 Scholarship Fund, contact Nyesha Stone at CNS@carvdnstone.com or visit https://www.carvdnstone.com.

CNS 2019 Scholarship Fund is sponsored by Milwaukee Courier Newspaper, Leaders Igniting Transformation, AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin, Alverno College and MPD District 7. To become a sponsor contact Stone.

About Carvd N Stone Inc.

Carvd N Stone is a platform for untold talents to tell their stories. Whether it’s through words, visuals or one of our many community events, we’re giving a voice to individuals. Carvd N Stone not only stands as a source for news but a brand that makes an impact in the community. We are dedicated to telling the truth and being the ones to initiate action that creates change.

Fashion Friday - From The Style Hub

Apply to be in the MPL Live Rap Battle

*Info provided by the Milwaukee Public Library*

“We're looking for Milwaukee’s best young rap artists. Think you've got what it takes? Enter an original song into the Battle for a chance to win $1,000. Learn more here: mplrapbattle.com. Entries open to ages 16-21. Must be a resident of Milwaukee County. Submissions accepted through 9/2/19.

See website for official rules. #LibraryLoudDays

Launching Rockford Community Mural Project!

Remember Tia Richardson, our cover artist from CopyWrite Magazine Folklores & Festivals Issue 12?

Well CW family, she needs your support!

On Wednesday August 21st (today) she is headed down to Rockford, IL for a Kickstarter launch party at SecondFirst Church to help Pastor Rebecca White-Newgren and other project stakeholders make a fundraising campaign go live for the Rockford Community Mural Project!

This city-wide project has been more than a year in the making, spearheaded by folks from different walks of life with deep roots and a firm commitment to bettering their community. Here's a link to the project's preview page. After launch this will redirect to the live url where people can donate. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/tiar/rockford-community-mural-project?ref=4elcmd&token=25c3f598

ON LAUNCH DAY, August 21st (today), if you feel called please donate to this Kickstarter and support by sharing with friends who you feel will resonate with the project!

/CW

*Press Release: Hip Hop Week MKE ??? Music On The BLT (Pre-Coverage interview w/ DJ Nu Stylez & Jazzaveli)

Hip Hop Week MKE 2019 is here!

Last years commencement of hosting an annual event to celebrate Hip-hop and its culture became the talk of the town with high stakes, aiming for a high communal reward. Its controversial turnout, with multiple perspectives, left many curious to see what would come of it this year, and others eager to be involved. As the Hip Hop narrative has always been on our agenda, CopyWrite has joined in the action. 

This year we are the official media sponsor of Music On The BLT (Beerline Trail), a Hip Hop Week MKE music showcase with the goal of bridging the gap between the Riverwest & Harambee neighborhood on Milwaukee’s Eastside. From our perspective, the showcase is symbolic of more than just music in the city. It represents the conversation and change that can come from activating space. In the hopes that you may read something that makes you want to join us for the event, CopyWrite sat down with two of the acts from the amazing lineup, DJ Nu Stylez and Jazzaveli, to give you a taste of exactly why you should come to #SupportTheLocal

Carrie (CW journalist), DJ Nu Stylez, Jazzaveli, and Lexi (Editor-in-Chief of CW)

CW: “What made you decide to be apart of this showcase.”

Jazzaveli (J): “I haven't been active in six years [doing music]. . . I feel like this kind of fell into place with the mission I was already on. As far as the lineup, the location and even the person that reached out to me to do it. I think it's going to be a great show.”

When we asked Jazzaveli about the showcase being on the official schedule for Hip Hop Week events she assured us that it will be not only beneficial for her as an artist but also it will showcase a part of the community that does not house a large venue or event space, but has a lot of potential and has “changed”.

 J: “I used to live over there as a kid, back when it was Kohl’s grocery store. The residents over there are different [now]. I think that people may be afraid to take that approach, as far as introducing Hip Hop to that community. But I think it's just conversation and communication. I don’t think they are being resistant towards it. I think it's just not having those relationships.”

Let’s be honest. That’s why we need you to show up. For these local events, the word is getting out, circulating in some circles, and passing over others. Riverwest is showing up and Harambee is not. Hmm. . . Why do you think that is? We are not just talking neighborhoods. My friends, we are talking about a cultural shift.

CW: “What do you think the importance is of having Hip Hop Week in Milwaukee?”

DJ Nu Stylez (DJNS): “Just in general, keeping the cycle going. Even though I have had my hand in all the elements. My forefront is obviously DJing. For the younger DJ’s now they just need to know the full elements of Hip Hop week and DJing. Keeping Hip Hop alive is really what this week is about.”

J: “People have to understand its deeper than music. In that area, there is a lot of gentrification. So people feel a way! When you merge two communities, and there is no communication, one group of people feel like everything they have worked for is being taken and the other group of people are in a happy space because they feel like its a new beginning for them.”

She believes unless we communicate collectively, we will always have a distance between the two. So Music On The BLT is a start. 

So how does Jazzaveli as an artist fit into the mix? Well, she started her run in the Milwaukee music scene when she was in her early twenties. Young, gifted, with a flow that could, “Out rap most guys” (word to DJ Nu Stylez), she had her hand in a big part of the scene. The avid Hip Hop fan of great emcee’s like Tupac, the well respected Bone Thugs-N-Harmony (who she has actually opened up for), and Shawnna (who she met after rapping her way backstage as a teen) knows the importance of sharing your truth. Now at the age of thirty-one, after breast cancer, a divorce, and some other major life turning events, she has something real to say. She claims that her showcase will be filled with a genre she calls Soul Rap. Which consist of life experiences that come from the soul, allowing the audience to hear her testimony. 

DJ Nu Stylez also has an important role in the Music On The BLT showcase as its official DJ. In our conversation, we discussed how the role of the DJ in today's digital era is underrated. The history of the Disk Jockey and the service they provide is critical to the longevity of the culture.

DJNS: “Nowadays it's just so easy to put the music on your phone. Cats now, they don’t have DJ’s. They are just like, ‘Uhh can you play it off of here?’. Like what part of the game is that?”

He asserts that even though some people may not understand how crucial the DJ is to a performance, the proof is in the product. 

DJNS: “There is a structure on playing music and a computer can’t teach you that. . .You have to put the time in. You have to put the work in.”

And the work starts with the relationships. The same ones we want to manifest with Hip Hop week. Let us put you on game:

DJNS: “People don’t understand going to say ‘What Up?’ to the DJ without giving them your music. Without even just introducing yourself. When you're talking to a [woman] you don’t just go ‘yea ya know, hi-ah’.” *He said in a frantic mocking voice*. 

Word from the DJ, calm down and build the connection. Everybody thinks they have the most poppin track in the city. It's the authenticity that will get you played. 

J: “The easiest way to break a record is to take to the DJ. F*ck a social media.”

CW: “Now that we have the opportunity to really bring Hip Hop to the forefront in our city and make sure EVERYBODY sees it, what do you think that narrative shift can cause to happen in our community as a whole?”

DJNS: “I’m hoping more spotlight. I’m hoping that the door will open a little bit wider . . . I don’t understand why we are not further given social media, technology, and numbers. Some MF’s from here have real numbers (*Numbers: Plays). So why is that not connecting past the midwest? I don’t know. But I’m hoping things like Hip Hop Week MKE [can change that].”

He believes that though many have left the city and made a name for themselves, it's going to take someone to blow up from the dirt (right here at home) to put Milwaukee on the Hip Hop map and everything that comes with it.

J: “I think now we have to start creating our own environment so that we don’t have to leave. . . Milwaukee is a gold mine for artist. We have programs at the City and all types of stuff where an artist could actually make a living off of this. There are paths you can create to have that platform to stay home, it's just are you willing to do it. We do have a dark cloud over our city but it’s still what you make of it too.”

#PREACH

Their advice? Start putting a claim to it. They note that the most successful people in Hip Hop talk about where they are from in their music explicitly. They mention the names of streets, businesses, and landmarks. They shout out their local DJ’s and producers. They speak on hardships that happen there. It creates a collective story about that place. It moves the people. It becomes that spark.  

CW: “We are hoping for a diverse crowd. What do you want people who may not come from a similar background to take from your music?”

J: “One thing I live by is that music is universal. No matter what genre it is, no matter what age, or color, people identify with music if it is heartfelt. . . All I can do is tell my story. One thing I know for sure is that I'm not the only person who has had breast cancer. I'm not the only person who has been depressed, had anxiety or any other issues. I think that's relatable. So when they listen to my music I want them to listen in spirit, and not judge me. Try to meet my frequency for a second without expectations.”

CW: “What would you say to somebody who is not likely to come out to this Hip Hop Week MKE event, and maybe if they read this it could change their mind?”

J: “Step outside the box. I feel like we are so content with a certain feeling. For a while, I wouldn't listen to anything past made past ‘05. . . but then I started to listen to some of the new artists, different types of music like I started studying music from the ’80s. I studied Pop. I studied Blues and we all have a story! So I would just encourage people to come out with an open mind and learn something new. Get a new experience.”

CW: “So we can talk about all these things but let’s be direct. What is your contribution to putting Milwaukee on the map?”

J: “For me its community work. I have been working in the community for years. I think music is what gravitates people. Like I said earlier, it's universal so that’s how I reach them. But I have just really been challenging artist on every level to just get involved. I know it may sound cliche because I’m not talking about no clean up’s, even though that's cool if you do that. But I'm talking about real life. . . I’m working at city hall every day and I’m an artist. If I work in an alder-person’s office there is no reason why the streets, the artist or whoever should not be able to come to me and say, ‘How can we buy back the blocks? How can we do this?’. I’m the gateway for it. Here is your opportunity. If you want something to change, you gotta change it. I personally just got tired of asking. So it's like let me put myself in a position where I can try to change that.”

CW: “And you sir?”

DJNS: “You always have to represent no matter where you go. . . You will always see me with an MLB (He moves his Milwaukee Brewers Cap up and down with pride) no matter where I’m at. But I think too, a little more important is keeping the newer generation in tune to the art. As long as they are above average we will always be looked at. . .”

If you have not caught on by now, we really need YOU, in order to change the narrative. So this Friday, August 23rd, 2019, join us at 3334 N. Holton st. on the BLT performance stage for Music On The BLT. Jazzaveli and DJ Nu Stylez are not the only artists who will be blessing the stage. Local favorite Shle Berry will be on the mic and so will the popular Pop/ Hip Hop talent Corey Pieper. Representation is at stake, the disenfranchised of perpetual gentrification is of course at risk and the voice of Hip Hop may have the remedy. We may be biased (Andddddddd????) but you know what they say:

“Hip Hop saved my life.”

/Lexi (Editor-in-Chief of CW)