Toby “Fresh” Campbell, better known as DJ DV One, got his start in DJing through an unexpected twist of fate. Initially aspiring to be a rapper, he was forced to take over DJ responsibilities when his own DJ was incarcerated.

Barry Williams, known by his stage name, DJ B-Mello, is a seasoned and respected award winning DJ with a rich history in the craft that dates back to the early 1980s.

Gregory Buren, also known as Funk Daddy, is a cornerstone of Seattle's music scene, embodying the spirit of hip-hop through his multifaceted talents as a producer, DJ, and former MC. His musical journey began in the mid-1980s, inspired by the vibrant beats of Sugar Hill Records. Funk Daddy's early days were marked by a passion for rapping along with his favorite tracks, leading him to hone his skills on instrumental records. As he immersed himself in the craft, he started acquiring his own gear, including a Roland 606 drum machine and a legendary keyboard dubbed the "freak board," setting the stage for a prolific career.

As you descend into the underbelly of Madame Lou’s at the Crocodile, a painting of Madame Lou herself seems to watch your every step. The floors vibrate, and the blues, reds, and purples of the stage lights melt into your skin as they reflect off the disco ball spinning overhead.

In Seattle, there is no one more influential on the local hip-hop scene than Vitamin D. A long-awaited and much-needed interview, Vitamin D has touched the lives of nearly every young hip-hop artist in the '90s and continues to do so today.

Over the weekend, Irish artist Andrew John Hozier-Byrne, known best as Hozier, returned to Washington, pouring his blues, soul, and indie rock into the wild embrace of the Gorge amphitheater.

From his roots in hip hop to his exploration of electronic genres like jungle and drum and bass in the early 2000s, Shomari Shanks, aka DJ Sho Nuph is a dynamic DJ.

At the crossroads of lo-fi and R&B, Kailyn Baccetti, also known as Kenshi Killzzz, crafts a sound that’s as fresh as it is evocative. Her music videos are visual poetry, blending traditional Indian attire with edgy streetwear, while her vlogs and photography account offer a behind-the-scenes look at her creative world.

AFROPUNK is coming to Seattle for the first time this weekend.

Set against the backdrop of Pier 62 at Seattle’s new Waterfront Park on September 7, 2024, this all-ages event promises a dynamic celebration of Black culture and music. KEXP’s Eva Walker, known for her role as the host of The Black Tones and a passionate advocate for the local music scene, will be hosting.

For those who have followed Tribal Legacy from the beginning, Jimaine Miller, better known as Def Chef, is a name that resonates deeply. As one half of the Stahi Brothas, alongside Vitamin D, Miller helped shape the local hip-hop scene during the formative years of the Ghetto Children. Back in the '90s, Miller was not only cooking up beats but also literally cooking, a passion that has only grown stronger over time.

Of the funk and bass institutions in Seattle, Jamal Robinson a.k.a. Roc Phizzle continues to hold on tight to his place. Originally from Southern California, he moved to Seattle at a young age, with his family, driven by his deep-rooted connection to funk and bass.

Chris Gambol, also known as Note Work, has navigated the worlds of music and digital media with remarkable passion and adaptability. Starting in the late 1980s during hip-hop's Golden Era, Gambol began writing rhymes and honing his skills, influenced by the legendary artists of the time. His dedication led to the formation of the group Narcotik, under the umbrella of Tribal Productions, a collective that significantly impacted Seattle's music scene.

At just four years old, Zaina the Phenom answered music’s call, and the world took notice. Now seven, she continues to captivate audiences with her infectious enthusiasm and heartfelt lyrics.

Arietta Ward is poised to captivate audiences once again with her forthcoming album, a continuation of her debut work Arieta. Known for her eclectic and genre-fluid style, Ward's music transcends traditional boundaries, weaving together elements of rock, funk, blues, gospel, country, and jazz into a rich and dynamic tapestry.

In the sultry realms of the music industry, where innovation and tradition waltz in a delicate ballet, Rocky Sandoval stands as a virtuoso who bridges genres with the finesse of a seasoned R&B musician. Picture him on stage, conjuring melodies that speak of passion, perseverance, and a unique artistic journey—one that has been anything but conventional.

In the heart of Portland’s bustling music scene, Mighty—also known as Mathias Mauk—has carved out a unique space with his compelling artistry and personal resilience. His latest project, Buick Boy, isn’t just an album; it’s a raw, emotional journey that reflects his tumultuous past and triumphant present.

In the ever-evolving world of music, few artists embody the essence of soulful storytelling and genuine connection as Tahirah Memory does. With a career that has beautifully woven together elements of jazz, soul, and personal narrative, Memory’s journey is a testament to the power of music as a vessel for both self-expression and intimate connection.

When 12-year-old Sina Holwerda told her parents she wanted to be a rapper, they didn’t expect it to stick. After 15 years, the now 27-year-old Holwerda, known by her middle name “Wynne,” clearly had the right idea. The Lake Oswego-raised University of Oregon grad is a rapidly rising hip-hop star based in Portland.

Ro'Nae Ruffer has been a part of Seattle’s musical landscape since her youth. She found her voice singing Mariah Carey covers, inspired by the rhythmic melodies filling her home. Music was a family affair, with her mother’s love for R&B and her father’s penchant for rap shaping her eclectic taste. This early immersion in diverse genres laid the foundation for Ro'Nae’s unique style, blending the soulful allure of R&B with the energetic cadence of rap.

Alana Rich, a dynamic pop artist rooted in Portland, has always been immersed in creativity. 

Her artistic journey began with writing poetry in elementary school, which later evolved into songwriting when she picked up the guitar at nine. Combining her love for writing, singing, and playing guitar, Rich started crafting her own songs, initially performing for family and small gatherings before transitioning to cafe performances. Her sound has continually evolved, traversing genres like acoustic pop, pop-punk, and blues pop, but always retaining a core element of pop music.