Fresco Lee was an athlete first and foremost. While growing up, people often remarked on his talent for rapping, but his focus was primarily on sports. At 18, on his way to a studio session at the Southwest Community Center, he was shot in the leg. The injury forced him to set aside basketball and pick up the pen. From that turning point, he committed himself fully to mastering his craft, determined to make every performance and opportunity a testament to his growth as an artist.

The Odunde Festival celebrates its 40th anniversary on November 16, offering a dynamic display of African arts, music, and cuisine in Seattle. This milestone event features cultural performances, workshops, and exhibitions, while also raising awareness for the soon-to-be-launched African Cultural Arts Center. Join us for a day that highlights diverse traditions and creative expressions, marking a major moment in Seattle's cultural scene.

The Odunde Festival celebrates its 40th year on November 16, bringing a vibrant showcase of African arts, music, and cuisine to Seattle. The event highlights cultural performances, workshops, and exhibitions while raising awareness for the upcoming African Cultural Arts Center. Explore a day filled with diverse traditions and creative expressions, marking a significant milestone in Seattle’s cultural landscape.

A powerful and moving event recently unfolded in Seattle, celebrating the release of the Huy/Eighth Generation/Louie Gong butterfly blanket, a poignant symbol of transformation and hope for Indigenous people impacted by incarceration.

Last Friday, I attended a truly extraordinary concert at the ethereal St. Mark's Cathedral on Capitol Hill in Seattle. The concert, headlined by the immensely talented Shaina Shepherd, was presented as a night of healing and reflection, a promise it more than fulfilled. From the moment I stepped into the cathedral, I was enveloped by the spiritual atmosphere.

Get ready for a mouthwatering episode of Back2Besa this weekend, hosted by the vibrant Besa Gordon! This time, she's taking you on a culinary adventure south down I-5, shining a spotlight on the region's incredible Black-owned food scene.

Co-Owner of Pizza By Ruffin, Isaiah Ruffin sits down on The Day With Trae guest host Deontay Damper, to have a conversation on being the first black owned pizzeria in Washington State

Josalyn Ford, Chief Advancement Officer of the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, discussed the upcoming 23rd Annual Breakfast on November 22. This year’s event, themed “Era of Essential Service,” will feature prominent speakers Taraji P. Henson and Hill Harper, emphasizing the importance of equity, advocacy, and community engagement.

Last week, I had the pleasure of attending a Q&A session with Jonathan Batista, the talented dancer who recently debuted in the lead role of George Balanchine's "Prodigal Son" with the Pacific Northwest Ballet.

The Nooksack 306, a group of Indigenous families in Washington state, are facing an impending humanitarian crisis according to Gabe Galanda, an Indigenous rights lawyer representing the Nooksack 306, who has been sounding the alarm for twelve years, warning of human rights violations and imminent displacement of these families from their ancestral homes on Nooksack tribal lands.

Marjorie's globally-inspired, locally-sourced menu is already a hit, with Jamaican jerk chicken, hush puppies, and bread pudding being crowd favorites. Besa raved about the hush puppies, saying, "I don't even like hush puppies, but I loved those." She also praised the restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere, noting the thoughtful decor and overall ambiance.

Falling in love with music at a young age while listening to greats such as Earth, Wind & Fire, The O’Jays, Stevie Wonder, and Luther Vandross, Jay Dot found music sticking to him like glue. Mimicking sounds without even noticing, his journey since adolescence has been filled with learning more about the art. Understanding what music means while discovering his own talents, Jay Dot has put together an amazing career from his youth to the present day.

Business owner Franchesca Vargas joins The Day with Trae to have a conversation with guest host Deontay Damper, discussing her PR management company Elevate’s mission is to empower and amplify the voices of local businesses, artist, community organizations and black/brown led nonprofits through exceptional PR and event planning services.

By Deaunte Damper - Alright y'all, let's dive deeper into this Kiki ballroom scene, a place where community, growth, and expression collide. I had the chance to chop it up with some key figures in the scene, and let me tell you, their insights were powerful.

LeNard Jones of Goody Bagg was a basketball player before he became a musician. While his primary focus during his youth was basketball, the rich musical environment surrounding him left an enduring impression that would draw him back into the world of music years later.

Located in Benton City, in the heart of Washington's Red Mountain wine-growing region, a unique winery has been making waves, not just for its exceptional wines but also for its heartwarming story and inviting atmosphere. Frichette Winery, co-owned and operated by the dynamic duo of Shae and Greg Frichette, is a testament to the power of following your dreams, embracing community, and a dash of spontaneity.

On this episode of The Day with Trae, guest host Deontay Damper sits down with award-winning playwright, composer, lyricist, and actor Justin Huertas. Known for his unique, comic-inspired musical style, Huertas discusses his latest project, TRIPLE FIRE SIGN, a concert event at Intiman Theatre’s new cabaret series running November 4-5, 2024.

I recently had the incredible opportunity to sit down with my brother, Romell Witherspoon, the Youth Mentorship Director for the City of Seattle, for an episode of "The Day with Trae." It was a truly special experience for me, as we've known each other for years and have witnessed each other's journeys. Romell's story is one of inspiration, leadership, and a deep commitment to community.

On November 2nd at Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center, Kutt’N’Up held their 20 year reunion show, which featured Klass'N'Sass! This dynamic dance crew, originally created by Koach Giggz is now led by the fiery Chyna Moneii.

By Omari Salisbury - Returning to Spokane always feels like a homecoming. It's a city where the Black community's strength and resilience are palpable, and its future is being rewritten with every step forward. Last month, we were honored to witness a momentous occasion: the Black Homeownership Spokane graduation. The atmosphere was electric, charged with the graduates' shared sense of accomplishment, relief, and a burning desire to build a brighter future.