This past Thursday I watched the energy in Providence preheat at a 7 o’clock open door time, infuse a group of rising New England artists, and give Hope to a Rhode Island based Hip-Hop crowd. All for the price of two dollars.
The show was curated by artist Jon Hope, whose music has brought him to many different places within his career. His songs have propelled him onto the MTV screen – drove him onto a tour with Nas – and even abducted him to rap and speak about his education to Sway and his civilians.
But as far as Hope’s lyrics and style, his loyalty will never leave Rhode Island.
If songs like “Rhode Less Travelled” and “Camp St. and Comstock” hasn’t expressed it, last Thursday was a true testament of the love Jon Hope has for his city. His team up with Red Bull to present #TwoDollarFlo was not only Hope’s expression of gratitude to all his fans who have been accompanying his journey, but it was a gift to Providence. The night was hosted by the dynamic Gibran, housed Free Wifi and DJ ASAP in the DJ booth, and featured amazing performances not only from Hope, but from Khary, Latrell James, Ceez and CrysLyrc.
What impressed me the most throughout the night was Hope’s ability to put together a young and incredible bill, but the event itself felt more like an art exhibit than a concert. Creativity was spinning off the turntables, ricocheting from the ceiling art and parachuting down to the crowd. Everyone’s individual style was being represented, and Dusk’s remote location yet cozy ambiance celebrated these vibes through it’s brick walls and intimate lighting. The fans were engaged throughout the entire night and I think it was the catering and respect by everyone involved that kept the people present for every performance.
The event was characterized by the gathering of MC’s on stage at the end of the performances. The support and love these creatives have for their competition is admirable. Once we get past the tough guy mantra and into the creative world where ideas are cultivated and not forcefully shaped through stubborn individuality, I think a lot can be learned. With most creatives that night being from Providence, I think it’s important that the musical scene in Rhode Island backs each other up, and Hope’s initiative to lead that thought process by bearing show costs for no profit is the perfect way to express that.
Check out Hope’s music below.