Derrick Brown, known to many as Vitamin D, recently shared his extensive music industry experience in an interview on "The Day With Trae" with guest host Deaunte Damper. With nearly 30 years in the Seattle music scene, Derrick discussed his journey from b-boying to becoming a renowned record producer, DJ, and audio engineer. He has made significant contributions to the music world, collaborating with artists such as Macklemore, 50 Cent, Lil Wayne, Kendrick Lamar, Nas, and Snoop Dogg, and creating the iconic "Big Rich Town" theme song for the TV series Power.

Get ready for an exciting weekend of innovation and creativity! The Seattle AI Film Festival (SAIFF) is just around the corner, and it's an event you won't want to miss. Happening on March 29th and 30th at the M5 Creative Hub in downtown Seattle (401 Mercer St.), SAIFF is your chance to explore the cutting-edge world where artificial intelligence meets filmmaking.

The March 2025 CD Art Walk in Seattle's Central District was a deliberate effort to energize the neighborhood, spotlight local artists, and support Black-owned businesses. Stephanie Morales, the coordinator of the CD Art Walk and executive director of Made Space Seattle, stated the goal was to bring "energy, money, and attention" to the Central District, and importantly, to show "the history of the Central District and the people of the Central District."

Graffiti is everywhere—on city walls, alleyways, and murals that tell stories in vibrant color. For some, it’s an art form; for others, it’s misunderstood. The Vivid Matter Collective’s (VMC) co-founder’s Takiyah Ward, and Moses Sun recently set out to challenge perceptions and inspire young creatives by hosting a graffiti workshop for students from the Jack and Jill Seattle chapter.

The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art hosted the Celebrating Black Voices Film Festival, creating a vital space for filmmakers to share their stories and perspectives. The festival showcased a diverse range of films from Seattle-area filmmakers, including animation, sci-fi, and documentaries, and notably featured four films from Converge Media: Nooksack 306, Facing The Reign, Reconciliation Tour, and Finding Go.

By Besa Gordon - Art vibes anyone? Let's go on a little adventure to the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art for the Black Voices Film Festival. Now, you know I had to hop on that ferry, sail 30 minutes away from Seattle, and pull up to celebrate Black storytelling. This festival was extra special because they were screening four of our very own Converge Media films!

Simon Okelo discussed the Madaraka Festival's origins and growth since 2014. The event supports youth programs in East Africa, unites African communities, and celebrates Kenyan independence. Entering its 11th year, the Madaraka Festival is scheduled for September 6 at Pier 62 in Seattle.

Experience the power and beauty of Black artistry at the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art's "Radiant Reflections" exhibit. This exhibit showcases the immense talent of nine local Black artists: Monae Brown, Charde' Brown, Jessie Lipscomb, Yolanda Galery, Charles Conner, Jeremy Goodie, Symonne Larison-Jones, James Wilson, and Malcolm Ford.

Northwest Tap Connection presented Voices of the Civil Rights Movement yesterday at Rainier Beach School's Paul Robeson Performing Arts Center. The performance explored the Civil Rights Movement through music and dance, spanning the Underground Railroad, Harlem Renaissance, the Black Pride movements of the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, and the Black Church, with children's songs and a revival of Black pride and African connection.

Whitney Williams, the creative force behind Brown Girl Charcuterie, sat down with Trae Holiday to recount her unexpected entry into the world of charcuterie, sparked by a desire to host a memorable birthday party. Whitney emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses and creating lasting memories for her clients.

Arte Noir stands as a cultural cornerstone in Seattle's Central District, celebrating Black art and creativity. This black art specialty shop and fine arts gallery, founded by respected local figure Vivian Phillips and managed by her daughter Jazmyn Scott, serves as a vibrant showcase for the talents of the Black community.

Tina Fahnbulleh's passion for cooking began at the tender age of four, leading her on a flavorful journey from Philly to Minnesota and finally to Seattle. Her culinary adventure started with pop-ups and catering gigs, eventually blossoming into the beloved Gold Coast Ghal Kitchen seven years later.

STOMP's percussive sensation continues to wow audiences worldwide, and Seattle was no exception. The show, which has been running since 1991, is a unique blend of percussion, comedy, and audience engagement, and it's clear that the show's evolution has kept it fresh and exciting.

Sabrina Gray started her business, The Curl Garden, seven years ago with the motto "It's deeper than hair." Her goal was to create a safe space where clients could not only leave with beautiful hair but also feel rejuvenated mentally and emotionally.

Sheila Kay shared her musical journey, from singing at age four to her upcoming show addressing Black Lives and gun violence. Kay emphasized community connections and passion for raising awareness.

Trae Holiday sat with Sadé McInnis, Senior Manager of Cultural & Community Programs for Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BHM). She tells us about Radiant Reflections, an exhibit they're hosting and more about BHM programming.

Get ready for the highly anticipated return of "Art of the Matter," the show by, for, and about artists! Hosted by the talented Takiyah "TDUB" Ward, Season Two is set to premiere this spring, promising even more captivating insights into the world of art and culture.

As we look back at some of our favorite moments from Back2Besa in 2024, one standout interview was with professional tap dancer Pamela Yasutake. Pamela, who began tap dancing at the age of nine, has turned her lifelong passion into a thriving career, performing and teaching tap across the globe. Here’s a look at Pamela’s story, how she got started, and her dedication to keeping tap dancing alive for the next generation.

Kwanzaa Lights at Wa Na Wari kicked off with “Dream Nightmare” by Martine Syms, part of her Kita’s World series exploring race, technology, and everyday performances. Visitors took in the outdoor light experience by Tariq Sahali while enjoying hot cocoa and sweets at the historic, Black-owned home.

From paintings and sculptures to jewelry and textiles, the market featured a wide range of artistic expressions. Each piece told a unique story, reflecting the artist's personal journey and cultural heritage. Attendees were captivated by the beauty and craftsmanship on display, and many left with one-of-a-kind treasures.