In Conversation with Kev Choice and Poor News Network

KPFA - Hard Knock Radio

**Hard Knock Radio: Davey D’s Conversation with Kev Choice**

In a compelling conversation for Hard Knock Radio, Davey D and musician Kev Choice delved into the significance of Black Music Month and the efforts to revive its visibility. Kev highlighted how the emphasis on Black Music Month, prominent in the 80s and 90s, waned around the 2000s, overshadowed by Pride Month. Despite this, Kev and fellow musicians are striving to uplift and celebrate the contributions of Black musicians. Kev mentioned his initiative, Oakland Black Music Week, aimed at reviving the local live music scene and reminding the community to support live music spaces.

### Exploring Music’s Historical Roots

Dave and Kev underscored the importance of understanding the historical roots of music, particularly the contributions of Black musicians. They emphasized the need to educate younger generations about the origins of genres like blues and jazz. Kev shared his transformative experiences in Cuba, noting the profound spiritual connection to music among the African diaspora. They stressed that music’s communal and uplifting aspects are often overshadowed by commercialization in the United States.

### Music as a Universal Language

The discussion turned to the universality of music as a communal experience. They highlighted how music can evoke strong emotions and unite people across different backgrounds. Kev and Dave emphasized that the essence of music lies not only in its technical aspects but also in its ability to connect people and evoke a shared feeling. Kev noted, “Our music number one is always rooted in spirituality and upliftment of a connection to a higher power.”

### The Role of Technology in Music Creation

Kev, an educator and hip-hop veteran, discussed the evolving role of technology in music creation. He emphasized the importance of respecting new forms of musical expression while also combining traditional music forms with technology to foster growth. Kev remarked, “Technology is just a new way of creating music and should be respected as a new form of expression.”

### Challenges and Authenticity in Music Careers

Dave and Kev explored the challenges faced by musicians, particularly in jazz and hip-hop, and the impact of commercialization on artistic expression. Kev shared his upcoming show at Yoshi’s Oakland, celebrating the 10th anniversary of his album ‘Riviera,’ featuring a community-based set list and an ‘Oakland Black Music Week all-star jam’. They highlighted the importance of staying true to one’s musical roots and authenticity in artistic expression.

### Upcoming Events and Traditional Rhythms

Kev shared details about upcoming events, including a performance featuring Dasa Jones from Detroit and his participation in Oakland Black Music Week. They discussed the significance of traditional rhythms in music, particularly the 3-2-5 pattern, rooted in Black music. Kev stated, “That connection of the music to me is one of the main attributes of Black music. It’s a feeling, not just something on paper.”

In closing, Kev emphasized the importance of community and the communal aspect of music, which can be lost in its commodification. He stressed the need to support live music and create spaces that foster authentic musical experiences.

**Hard Knock Radio: Poor News Network**

Poor News Network radio program is focused on providing non-colonizing, community-based and community-led media with the goals of creating access for silenced voices, preserving and degentrifying rooted communities of color and re-framing the debate on poverty, landlessness, indigenous resistance, disability and race locally and globally.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

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