Last week, I witnessed perhaps the top concert to date to hit the Chi in 2012. Talib Kweli, accompanied by his live band, headlined a packed house at The Shrine as he spit verses new and old, classics and covers, and even an incredible a capella that we give you a taste of above - just before launching into our latest exclusive interview!
And ladies and gents, this interview is an instant classic. After the show, Talib Kweli sat down with our own Jeff Baraka, while we were also joined by the special surprise guest Kweli brought on stage during his encore - none other than true Chicago playa emcee, GLC. What you see above is a raw, reflective conversation between the three, where first, Kweli realized and articulated on the spot, the similarities between his hometown of Brooklyn and our hometown of Chicago. He had these powerful words to say about the City of Wind:
On Brooklyn & Chicago similarities:
"Well to be honest with you, I didn't even really notice that there was such a similarity between Brooklyn and Chicago until you said it. With me, Chicago is.. a hub. It's a mecca. It's like a shining light in the middle of the country. It's a place where a lot of people came who didn't have access to the coasts. And came, and was able to make their dreams come true."
But that's not all. Of course, we needed some words on a Black Star album and Kweli kills any and all rumors, while leaving the door open to the possibility we all want.
On a new Black Star album:
"We had been puttin' out Black Star songs on the website blackstarhub. We been workin' on music. We don't have an album together yet."
Finally, Kweli describes the 'Super MC' and in the process talks about the art, skills, and business of hip hop. Baraka then brings in GLC as he and Kweli share laughs about an awesome story of a tour stop back in '03 overseas where GLC was NOT having any bootleggers. Hah! On the music tip, GLC also reveals an artist who embraces 'The Ism' lately and one that we can expect a collab with in the future (Hint: From Pittsburgh, first name rhymes with Biz). Lookin'. Forward. To that!
Shoutout to everyone involved for makin' this one memorable night. To Talib Kweli & GLC for the excellent show, the time afterwards, and all the Gowhere love. To the good people at The Shrine for hosting yet another high-energy concert (Groove Series with Jean Grae up next this Thursday!). To the #TeamGowhere fam below for creating one of our most raw and entertaining interviews to date. It's simply a must-see! Watch and enjoy above.
