Pen Game Strong: Writing the Future of Virginia Hip Hop
The VA Hip Hop Foundation lauches its first event with a conversation with writers behind Virginia’s Hip Hop sound
by Eric Jackson
Launching in August of this year, the Virginia Hip Hop Foundation, a 501c non-profit dedicated to solidifying Virginia’s place in Hip Hop history.
In 2023, Hip Hop celebrated 50 years of independence, culture, renaissance and Black voice with Richmond highlighting those within the city, awarding recognition at the Hippodrome. The celebration underscored how Richmond has played a vital role in Hip Hop’s story.
Historically, Virginia has birthed not only some of the most iconic artists, but some of the most creative. Cali’s got that West Coast sound, but go to Detroit, you get gritty soul-samples, and even in New York you’ll hear the classic boom-bap. But VA? Virginia has its own sound.
Missy Elliot, with her unmatched originality and visionary videos, continues to push boundaries, while producers like Timbaland and Pharrell continue to redefine what music can be. Timbaland breaks the norm using A.I., and even LEGO used Pharrell as the focus of their 2024 chart topping Piece by Piece — proof that VA Hip Hop moves globally.
Hip Hop artist Nickelus F performs at The Warehouse during a sold out show in Richmond.
Tomorrow, the VA Hip Hop Foundation and Virginia State University will collaborate for “Pen Game: A Conversation About Writing in Hip Hop.” This panel discussion will feature Grammy-nominated artist Mad Skillz — recently recognized for Best Spoken Word Poetry Album for Words for Days Vol. 1, and underground legend Nickelus F, both celebrated for their lyricism, writing and their art of storytelling.
Special guests GSambo, and music from Richmond’s own Hip Hop Henry.
Join VA Hip Hop Foundation and Virginia State University for an evening around Hip Hop, the pen game, and the power of words — because the pen can’t be erased.
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