Press Release – WURD Radio Celebrates the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop at World Cafe Live on June 16

PHILADELPHIA – “You never thought that hip-hop could take it this far.” The Notorious B.I.G. 

Christopher Wallace’s iconic lyric from “Juicy” is more relevant than ever as WURD Radio recognizes the 50th anniversary of hip-hop with “Message in Our Music: Black Music as a Soundtrack to Inspire or Incite.” This event, taking place on the evening of June 16 at World Cafe Live, will explore the profound impact of hip-hop music and its ability to inspire positive change and incite controversy.

The event features a panel discussion, a live music trivia game show, a rhyming cypher, and open mic. Hosted by Tiffany Bacon, WURD’s Radio Creative and Production Director and show host of Stage Door, “Message in Our Music” is WURD Radio’s tribute to a genre whose influence has spanned the globe and remains a uniquely Black American creation.

The panel discussion will shed light on the powerful narratives embedded in hip-hop and how those narratives shape the Black experience. This discussion will feature:

• Temple University’s “Rapping Professor” Dr. Aaron Smith
• Graffiti artist Christian “Tameartz” Rodriguez
• Philadelphia femcee Queen Jo
• Dyana Williams, celebrity media strategist, on-air personality and co-creator of Black Music Month
• Spoken word artist Ursula Rucker

“We are excited to host ‘Message in Our Music’ at The Lounge at World Cafe Live,” said Bacon. “This event not only celebrates the contributions of Black musicians but also encourages meaningful conversations about the power of music to inspire social change. We hope this evening will be a source of education, reflection, and inspiration.”

Tickets for “Message in Our Music” are $20 in advance and can be purchased on World Cafe Live’s website. Tickets are $25 at the door. A limited number of complimentary tickets will be reserved for members of the media. 

Event details:

• Title: Message in Our Music: Black Music as a Soundtrack to Inspire or Incite
• Date: June 16th, 2023
• Time: Doors open at 7:00 PM, event starts at 8:00 PM
• Venue: The Lounge at World Cafe Live
• Address: 3025 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104