On November 18th, 2011, hip-hop artist Immortal Technique rocked a community benefit show for PUENTE. in Phoenix, Arizona. The show was yet another example that Immortal Technique is not just a talker; in front of the jam packed audience, Tech explosively and energetically walked the walk. Several thousand dollars were raised towards financing PUENTE’s future opening of a new office, which will serve as home base to the new campaign to remove Sheriff Joe Arpaio from office due to his continuing mistreatment of immigrants, blatant abuse of power, and negligent actions (for more visit Evil Arpaio).
The November 18th benefit show was more than just a great start towards funding the new PUENTE office; it was a night inspired by the tradition of the OG boogie-down Bronx sets that put hip-hop music on the map worldwide. On hand to testify, as part of the night’s impressive roster of respected hip-hop artists, was X Clan architect Paradise Gray, who once stated, “You could feel the honesty and the integrity coming from the culture and the music; that’s what hip-hop is.” Don’t just take our word for it, though- watch the video below to see Paradise Gray for yourself.
Watch Video Mix of Show.
Tech began his set with a powerful message, “for years and years and years we’ve realized that there were people who would back us in the immigration struggle who saw it as a human rights issue. Who saw it the demonization of our people and the destruction of our culture as something that was unacceptable for America and for human beings in general…what we want to happen now is for artists to come here, but come here and work with people that actually give a fuck about the community.”
Tech added, “when we heard the complaints of people who said, ‘ow your depriving Arizona of the artists … it dawned on me that these people weren’t complaining when children were being ripped apart from their parents.”
Also on the bill were other dope acts like Rhymefest, Chino XL, Jasiri X and local artists Vprolific and Grime.
Chino XL who performed just prior to Tech, dropped some heat in his last joint that showed why he is one of the most talented lyricist around today. Paradise Gray recorded the set and put it out for the people here.
After this dope flow One Hood asks, “Is Chino XL the best rapper alive?”
Chino and Tech really rocked the crowd that warmed up with a Chicano style hip hop show that included Mariachi’s, fire dancers, local artists, free-styling on the side, graffiti art, up-and-coming artist Jasiri X, and the Grammy Award winning Rhymefest.
Thanks again to Tech, Chino XL, DJ G.I. Joe, Rebel Armz, Jasiri, Rhymefest, and Paradise Gray for taking real hip-hop to the people. Thank you for standing strong with The Sound Strike.
Some artists like Rhymefest even took the time to battle some local MCs. Check it out! For more information about The Sound Strike, don’t forget to sign up for our email list (click here).
Local Cipher with Rhyefest.
