This week, I sit down with hiphop artist Ken$on to talk about masculinity and Hip Hop. We discuss the definition and history of Hip hop, toxic masculinity, and Ken$on's approach to music.

Oakland born and Berkeley raised lyricist and activist Emmanuel "Ken$on" Williams blends authentic, skillful lyricism with street-level social commentary to tackle the root causes of systemic inequities. By tracing the dubious links between the financiers behind the world's most exploitative industries, Ken$on stands as a compelling example of true independence. Ken$on's grassroots journey has enabled him to create his own musical architecture—from passing out demos on Dropbox to launching immersive digital album experiences and his own streaming app. Unfazed by the mainstream media's constraints, Ken$on carves his own path, confident that his vision will attract a dedicated following. Ken$on's dynamic stage presence energizes the Oakland First Fridays $MOAK Cypher at the Alan Bluebird Center for Justice, a showcase he curates, hosts, and performs with the $MOAK Collective—empowering the next wave of Bay Area independent artists. To learn more or support Ken$on's grassroots movement, visit copsshouldntmurderpeople.com.

$moak Collective https://linktr.ee/smoakcollective