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The District began commemorating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop earlier this summer with the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, but the golden year of festivities goes national in October with the National Celebration of Hip-Hop.
Taking place on the National Mall, rapper Ice–T and hip-hop group Public Enemy will headline the free concert on Friday, Oct. 6, and Saturday, Oct. 7. Presented by Nathan Parienti and Lauren Bissell of the event production company Chasing Live, in collaboration with The Art of Rap and Ice-T, the concert honors the storied start of the genre: 50 years ago, DJ Kool Herc performed the first recorded breakbeat sound.
Described as “the definitive celebration of hip-hop,” the West Potomac Park event features several big-name performers, including Kurtis Blow, Kid ’n Play, Soulsonic Force, Roxanne Shante, CL Smooth, and Melle Mel and Scorpio. The Sugarhill Gang, Peter Gunz, DJ Kevie Kev Rockwell, Mad Skillz, MC Sha-Rock, Busy Bee, Joe Ski Love, Positive K, Boogie Black, Mick Benzo, Gumbo, and Donald D will also make appearances, with other artists to be announced.
“Hip-hop is beyond, not just a musical genre,” says Chuck D, a founding member of Public Enemy, in today’s press release announcing the event. “It’s a cultural movement that has dominated art, fashion, politics, poetry, academia, film, and every corner of the world for the past 50 years. This National Celebration brings it all together in one place for the people, by the people.”
Beyond musical performances, attendees can expect guest speakers, comedians, and public figures, as well as interactive events and exhibits throughout the day—all celebrating the anniversary concert.
“We are honored to continue to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop against the backdrop of America’s [capital] with a free event for everyone,” Flavor Flav says in the press release.
Bissel notes in the release that the October event aims to bring the iconic sound of hip-hop and “the melodies, the lyrics, the energy in perfect harmony” to the people, “unif[ying] everyone in a moment in time that will live on forever,” she continues.
The general admission event will be free with registration, and tickets will be distributed on a first come, first serve basis. Pre-registration opens today, Aug. 23. Fans can sign up for the waiting list for free tickets online, where VIP party and travel packages will also be available for purchase. Details on an international live stream and broadcasts of the concert will be announced.
The National Celebration of Hip-Hop takes place Friday, Oct. 6 through Saturday, Oct. 7 at West Potomac Park, 2912 Independence Ave. SW. Free, but registration is required. Pre-registration opens Aug. 23 at nationalcelebrationofhiphop.com.
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