RTSB 18: WHAT NOW?

PerformerS

THE NEIGHBORHOOD KIDS

DJS

Oui Boogie & Owl Boogie

Workshops

Hip Hop 360

Steven “Zulu Gremlin” Roybal

Type: Knowledge

Workshop Info: This session will feature a dynamic presentation, a curated archive exhibit, live demonstrations, and music, all designed to introduce and explore the key elements of Hip Hop. Participants will gain insight into the foundational aspects of Hip Hop, including breakdancing, DJing, graffiti, and rap, with firsthand experience showcasing each element. Whether you're a newcomer or a longtime fan, this workshop offers a comprehensive experience of Hip Hop’s rich history and creative expressions. Don't miss this opportunity to explore, learn, and be inspired by the power of Hip Hop!

Bio: Zulu Gremlin, born Stephen John Roybal in Pico Rivera, California, is a Los Angeles-based dancer, entrepreneur, and creative force. With a family deeply rooted in music and dance, he began performing professionally in 1981, blending versatility, innovation, and business acumen to build a lasting legacy. Beyond dance, he is passionate about music, fashion, rare collectibles, and artist development, balancing his career with family life. He believes dance is a celebration of life and continues to inspire new generations through teaching and performance. His style is influenced by legends like Demons of the Mind, Ken Swift, and the Jackson 5.

Website: www.zulugremlin.com

Social Media: Instagram

AnimeHipHop: The Rise Of Anime In The Black Community

Eric McElroy Jr. & Keysha Aguilar

Workshop Info: This workshop highlights the powerful cultural fusion between anime and Hip-Hop, two influential art forms that have deeply resonated within the Black community. By exploring visual storytelling through a creative lens, participants will gain insight into how these mediums intersect, reflecting themes of resilience, self-expression, and innovation. This experience empowers individuals to embrace their artistic voices, celebrating the cultural impact of Hip-Hop while fostering a new generation of diverse comic book creators.

Bio: Cthree is a musician and author known for his debut album Spirit Language (2020), which gained international attention. A pioneer in the nerdcore genre, he combines visual and audio art by creating a comic book to accompany his album. His soulful lyrics uplift and promote self-awareness, and he’s collaborated with renowned lyricists King Los and Sa-Roc. Cthree co-wrote the cult classic comic Kishi and The Island of Dreams with Hall of Fame wrestler Rikishi. He is the founder of the conscious music label 3rd Eye Tribe Ent and creator of AnimeHipHop, a multimedia company blending Hip-Hop, animation, and education.

Urban Mother: The Power In Your Name

Armani Fuller, Dr. Florentino Ubugen, DJ Rise, Lujon Williams Jr.

Workshop Info: This presentation explores the experiences of four generations of people in San Francisco and Seattle, focusing on identity, resilience, and displacement from the 1990s to the 2000s. It connects Hip Hop culture with academic ideas to highlight the journey of the Urban Askals and their ties to their heritage. DJ Rise from Seattle will kick things off with a special DJ set that blends music with history and decolonization. Dr. Tino Ubungen will share personal stories and research, alongside “Cold Thing About It,” a Black-owned urban business from San Francisco. Inspired by scholars like H. Biana, Hooks, and Yosso, the presentation shows how the Urban Askals are an important part of American history and culture. Rooted in both Hip Hop and scholarship, this session invites the Rock The School Bells community to recognize and engage with stories that have often been overlooked. What Now?

Armani Fuller

Lucion Armani Fuller is a third-generation multicultural American of Black, Puerto Rican, Irish, and German descent. A graduate student in Educational Counseling at San Jose State University, he holds a bachelor’s in criminal justice from San Francisco State and an AA in Administration of Justice from Skyline Community College. With over two years of experience in higher education, he is also the co-owner of Cold Thing About Coffee, blending culture and music for a unique experience.

Dr. Florentino Ubugen

Dr. Florentino (Tino) M. Ubungen is a 4th-generation Filipino-American with Illocano, Visyan, and Tagalog roots. He is the President of the Filipino American Historical Society's Greater Seattle Chapter and a founder of the Urban Askals, a collective using cultural creativity and research to promote equity and unity. With over 15 years in higher education, Dr. Ubungen holds an Educational Doctorate from San Francisco State University, focusing on Filipino American experiences in education. He also earned a Master’s in Educational Counseling from San Jose State University and a Bachelor's in Liberal Studies. Dr. Ubungen was a professional baseball player in the Philippines and was the Home Run Champion in his final year.

DJ Rise

Geoffrey “DJ Rise” Carrillo is a son, husband, father and creative from Seattle, WA. He's a former United States DMC World DJ Championship Finalist. A true ambassador to the art form, Geoff combines musicality, technical skill and showmanship that's reminiscent of the pioneer DJs that came before him.

Lujon Williams Jr.

LuJon Williams Jr Is a third generation San Francisco resident from the Bay-View, Hunter’s Point community. He is a current student at City College Of San Francisco and Co-owner of Cold thing About it Coffee. Beyond coffee, LuJon actively supports and are involved with local initiatives while focused on fostering community engagement

Master Your Mic: A Public Speaking Workshop with Professional Hip-Hop Artists

Lil MC & Amani Jade

Hosted by Professor Soledad McCarthy

Business 401: Business Communications

Step into an interactive workshop filled with fun, creativity, and performance! Start with a "This or That" game to get the energy flowing, followed by rap performance drills to sharpen your skills. Engage in an alliteration game to boost your lyrical creativity, and explore miming and breathwork exercises to enhance your stage presence and control. The session will culminate with a share out, where participants can choose to showcase their skills through rap karaoke or perform a short poem. This workshop offers a unique blend of fun and learning, perfect for anyone looking to develop their performance and poetic abilities.

Bio: LiL MC is a dynamic performer, rap battle champion, and one of the 3% of women music producers worldwide. Since starting in 2010, she has expanded her craft to include singing, songwriting, and production. As Program Coordinator for Hip Hop for Change, she teaches beat-making and songwriting to students nationwide. Passionate about uplifting women in Hip Hop, she founded Queens of the Underground, a showcase and development platform for female artists.

Bio: Amani Jade, a San Francisco-born creator, is a femcee, master teaching artist, and co-director of Women's Empowerment programming at Hip-Hop for Change. She uses art as a healing tool, working with youth in artistic, political, and social-emotional spaces. Inspired by freestyle, cyphers, and creative expression, she lives by the motto, "Write to make it right!" Stream The Cleansing for a powerful musical experience and follow The Oakland Mind for deep thinking and Black Love.

Can't Knock The Hustle: Game & Gems for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Anthony Presents, DJ Shellheart, Nate Ortiz, Evan Kidera, Gil Payumo, Shaina Manlangit, Aaron Horner

Moderated by: Aaron Horner

Hosted by Professor Soledad McCarthy

BUS 161: Creativity & Innovation in Entrepreneurship

Workshop Info: Join us for an empowering panel discussion with successful entrepreneurs of color who share their journeys, challenges, and triumphs in business. Hear firsthand how these leaders have overcome barriers, tapped into cultural strengths, and built thriving businesses.

Gain practical insights on:

• Overcoming obstacles unique to entrepreneurs of color

• Building an authentic business

• Leveraging cultural identity for innovation

• Navigating funding, mentorship, and networking challenges

This workshop is perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs, business owners, or anyone passionate about supporting diverse voices in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Don’t miss the chance to learn from trailblazing leaders who are reshaping the future of business!

Anthony Presents

Anthony Schlander—better known as Anthony Presents—is a premier event producer from the Bay Area, renowned for curating unforgettable experiences for over 20 years. As the visionary behind iconic brands like Sundaze, he has produced large-scale festivals such as Everybody Eats, the Ube Festival, and Top of the Hill Festival, which attracted over 10,000 attendees. Anthony’s expertise extends to community-driven events like Joy to the City at Chase Center and major activations in San Francisco’s Entertainment Zone. Most recently, he collaborated with Nike and the Kobe brand for NBA All-Star Weekend. With a passion for blending music, culture, and community, Anthony is dedicated to crafting events that leave a lasting impact.

DJ SHELLHEART

DJ SHELLHEART (Michelle Miller) is a Richmond, CA-based DJ who has made waves in the Hip-Hop and LGBTQ communities over the past decade. She has toured with Rexx Life Raj, Bas (Dreamville), Mr. Carmack, P-Lo, Marc E. Bassy, and Russ, and performed on major stages like 106 KMEL Summer Jam, Rolling Loud, SXSW, and Outside Lands. A fixture at San Francisco Pride and Golden State Warriors’ Thrive City events, she has also collaborated with brands like Red Bull, Jumpman, Footlocker, and Spotify. Beyond music, she gives back through initiatives like Holiday Heart Toy Drives, Heart of The Bay DJ Competition, and female cyphers.

Nate Ortiz

Nate Ortiz (he/him) is a small business owner and entrepreneur, co-running 13Gallons, a screen printing and embroidery shop in Daly City. For over five years, 13Gallons has supported local artists, hustlers, and creatives in bringing their brands to life. A longtime community advocate, Nate has spent 15+ years supporting youth programs, coaching football, and now serves his second term on the Daly City Park and Recreation Commission.

Evan Kidera

Evan Kidera is the CEO and co-founder of Señor Sisig, a pioneering Bay Area food brand that fuses Filipino flavors with classic street food. Since launching in 2010, he has expanded Señor Sisig from a single food truck into multiple restaurants, food trucks, and stadium partnerships, earning local and national recognition. A San Francisco native, Evan’s roots in hip-hop culture and entrepreneurship influence his approach to business. He holds a BA and MBA from SFSU, where he was inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame for his impact on food, culture, and community.

Gil Payumo

Gil Payumo is the co-founder and chef behind Señor Sisig, a pioneering Filipino-American food brand. Born in San Francisco and raised in Daly City, he grew up in a family of entrepreneurs, developing a deep passion for cooking. In 2010, he launched Señor Sisig, transforming a single food truck into a thriving business with multiple trucks and restaurants. His mission is to introduce Filipino flavors to the masses while celebrating and elevating Filipino culture through food.

Shaina Manlangit

Shaina Renee Manlangit is an entrepreneur, marketing strategist, and PR expert dedicated to amplifying diverse voices and redefining representation in media. With over eight years of experience, she began her career in Hollywood, leading high-impact campaigns for top talent, major studios, and streaming platforms. As the Founder of Industry’s Finest, she champions underrepresented talent and brands, helping them break barriers on a global stage. She also drives purpose-driven initiatives, including work with the Philippine Department of Tourism, curating immersive cultural experiences. A passionate advocate for storytelling and strategic partnerships, Shaina is committed to empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs and transforming industries.

Aaron Horner

MC Preach, aka Aaron Horner, is an inspirational leader, entrepreneur, and community advocate dedicated to empowering others. With a career spanning corporate logistics, nonprofit philanthropy, workforce development, and executive leadership, he has worked extensively to support individuals impacted by poverty, the justice system, and homelessness. As the founder of AMHServices, LLC, he leverages his expertise in team leadership, program growth, and funding acquisition to help organizations expand their impact. A pastor, MC, DJ, and devoted husband and father, MC Preach is passionate about activating and nurturing the gifts in others, using his talents to uplift communities.

The Art of Beat Making (set-up)

DaRapNerd, Lax The Monk & Elliot Gann

Workshop Info: Participants will explore the world of beatmaking while fostering community engagement. Learn the basics of creating your own beats, explore different production techniques, and collaborate with others to produce unique sounds. This hands-on experience not only teaches music production but also emphasizes the power of working together to create something meaningful. Whether you're new to beatmaking or have some experience, this workshop offers an inclusive space to share ideas, learn, and connect with others through music. At the end, we will create a group beat using our shared experiences.

Bio for Da Rap Nerd: Elwin G. Williams III, professionally known as Da Rap Nerd, is a multi-talented artist, producer, DJ, and hip-hop educator. With a solid foundation as the former bassist for Del The Funky Homosapien from 2013 to 2015, Elwin has honed his skills and expertise in the music industry.

Drawing inspiration from his experiences with the legendary Hieroglyphics crew, Da Rap Nerd has emerged as a certified Pro Tools User, producer, and songwriter. His passion for hip-hop education and artist development has spanned over a decade, during which he has collaborated with renowned organizations such as Today's Future Sound, Alameda County Juvenile Correction Facility, Richmond College Prep, and Rock the School Bells.

Bio for Ken Laxamana: Ken Laxamana AKA Lax the Monk is a Finger Drummer, Beat Maker/music producer, and an engineer. He started making beats at the age of 17, teaching himself. After serving in the US Army, he attended Academy of Art University and studied Music Production/Sound Design. Having graduated in 2021 he got his BFA degree in Music Production. He has certifications in multiple Digital Audio Workstations such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, FL Studio, Ableton Live just to name a few. He began teaching youth Music Production and Finger Drumming techniques on the MPC and engaging in Therapeutic Beat Making (TBM) in 2021 after he met the Executive Director of Today's Future Sound, Dr. Elliot Gann.

Website: www.todaysfuturesound.org, www.bayokyo.com

Social Media: @darapnerd, @laxthemonk

EARTH ELEMENT: Graffiti Letter

Rhymosaurs

Workshop Info: In this workshop, you'll learn the basics of bubble letters, handstyles, and throwies—essential elements of Hip-Hop culture. Through step-by-step guidance, you'll explore foundational techniques for creating bold, eye-catching lettering and designs. Perfect for beginners and aspiring artists, this session will give you the tools to express yourself through graffiti while understanding its roots and significance in Hip-Hop.

Bio: Orlando "ZEPS" Molina is an MC and children's book author of the series @Rhymosaurs which uses the 4 elements of hip-hop to boost literacy in the community. Originally from Brooklyn NY, he now resides in Stockton since 2017 repping the 209. MC ZEPS is the author of Rhymosaurs kid’s books. The series contains a bonus section titled "Graffiti Spot" for coloring, lettering and rhyme writing to help boost literacy in the community.

Social Media: Instagram

Mix It Up: Beginner DJ Workshop

DJ Bitesize & Jo-Ill Merchan

Workshop Info: In this hands-on workshop, students will explore the fundamentals of mixing two songs together, learning the basics of DJing and song transitions. Participants will get the opportunity to experiment with different tracks, combining them seamlessly to create a unique sound. By the end of the session, everyone will walk away with a solid understanding of how to mix songs and the essential skills needed to start their DJ journey!

Bio: DJ Bitesize is a turntablist/party rocker from the 415 and has won 2 local DJ Battles. She has rocked numerous events from birthday parties to school dances to even throwing her own parties. On her downtime, she puts mixes together and posts them for the public on SoundCloud. Make sure you follow her on social media to catch her next set or her mixes for your next car ride!

Social Media: Instagram

Bayan To Beats: Filipinx in Hip Hop Panel

ET, Rocky G, Venazir Martinez, Jae Bayani

This panel highlights the significant yet often underrepresented role of Filipinos in Hip Hop. From breakdancing to DJing, MCing, and graffiti, Filipinos have left an indelible mark on the culture. Join us for a dynamic discussion with Filipino artists and innovators who have helped shape the global Hip Hop scene.

Explore the intersection of Filipino heritage, identity, and Hip Hop culture, and learn how Filipino traditions and values influence artistic expression. Panelists will share personal stories, challenges of representation, and the power of community in breaking through barriers.

Whether you're an aspiring artist, Hip Hop enthusiast, or just curious about the Filipino impact on the movement, this session offers valuable insights into how the culture continues to evolve, with a focus on authenticity, creativity, and resilience.

Moderated by: Dr. Rod Magbual-Daus

History 436: Filipinos in America


ET IV, Interdisciplinary Artist

Eduardo Daza Taylor IV // ET IV (he/him) is a Bay Area-born interdisciplinary artist of Philippine ancestry. A DJ, historian, and educator, he founded ASTIG Sound, an independent label celebrating OPM+ diasporic sounds. His collage art has been featured in publications and exhibitions worldwide, with support from the SF Arts Commission and California Arts Council. His short film REGALO premiered at CAAMfest 2024, and as a DJ, he has performed across the West Coast and Asia, touring with artists like Ruby Ibarra and Bambu.

Rocky G, Multidisciplinary Musician, Producer, & Songwriter

Rocky G, born in the D.M.V. is a multi-disciplined musician, producer, and songwriter. Starting with instruments at a young age, he honed his skills on the saxophone and piano. His journey led him to Washington D.C.’s Duke Ellington School of the Arts, where he specialized in Jazz Saxophone. After a personal loss, he found solace and inspiration in organizing and Ethnic Studies at San Francisco State University, profoundly impacting his songwriting.

Venazir Martinez, Street Muralist & Visual Anthropreneur

Venazir, a Filipina street muralist and visual anthropreneur, creates transformative public art exploring tradition, migration, and identity. She founded the Hilabana movement in 2018, weaving cultural narratives into urban spaces through her signature red thread motif. Her large-scale murals, including Ani – Harvested Hopes in San Francisco’s SOMA Pilipinas, honor migrant communities and cultural resilience. With exhibitions at Duke University and the Philippine Consulate in San Francisco, she received the 2024 TOYM award for her contributions to public art. Through Hilabana, she envisions a global network of murals connecting histories and identities.

Jae Bayani, Singer, Songwriter, Dance, & Rapper

Jaeya "Jaeonic" Bayani is a Filipinx singer-songwriter, dancer, and rapper from the Bay Area. A Columbia College Chicago honors graduate, she is a 2024 GrammyU Ambassador and recipient of the CCC Parker Lee Williams Award for Hip-Hop Excellence. She works in the global Filipino music industry as Music Publishing Administration Coordinator for Thizzler on the Roof and co-produced Kapwa Chicago Vol. I. Her 2023 EP BAYANI led to performances at SXSW and APAture’s 25th Annual Music Showcase. Passionate about artist advocacy, she aims to pursue a law degree to support Filipino artists in need of legal representation.

Hip Hop, Gender, & Queerness

Astralogik (Charito + Chen)

Hosted by Professor Rika Fabian

Sociology 160: Sociology of Sex and Gender

Workshop Info: In this workshop, participants will explore beatmaking and MCing, focusing on collaboration and queer visibility in Hip-Hop. Working together, they’ll create a beat or song, taking on roles like lyricists, producers, and vocalists. The session concludes with a reflection and sharing of creations, discussing how the work contributes to queer visibility and the importance of diverse voices in Hip-Hop.

Bio: AstraLogik is a Queer Pinay duo from the Bay Area, California, exploring their Filipino American, queer, and healing journeys through chill-folk, R&B, hip-hop, and soul music. Raised in different cultural environments—one in the jungles of Guam, the other in the SF East Bay—they blend themes of decolonization, wellness, and mental health in their music. They’ve opened for artists like Hirie, Jake Zyrus, Zion I, J Boog, Macy Gray, Estelle, and Robert Glasper, and have toured with rapper Ruby Ibarra as part of The Balikbayans. Currently, they’re members of Pinay Voltron, an all-Pinay collective of musicians and artists.

Website: astralogik.com

Social Media: Instagram

Latinx Voices: Career Pathways in Art, Entrepreneurship, & Innovation

Power Serge, DJ Kriptive, Jazmin Ontiveros, Lydia Guerrero, Jose Cordon

Join us for an inspiring career panel featuring Latinx artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators who are making their mark in the arts, business, and tech industries. This workshop is designed for high school and college students looking to explore diverse career paths and gain insight from successful Latinx professionals.

Panelists will share their personal journeys, challenges, and strategies for building careers in creative fields and entrepreneurship. You’ll learn about overcoming obstacles, building your brand, networking, and pursuing passions while creating a sustainable career.

Topics include:

• Navigating culture, creativity, and business

• Overcoming industry challenges

• Building a brand and network

• Creative entrepreneurship and innovation

Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable insights and inspiration for your future career!

Moderated by: Angela Serrano

Hosted by: Puente Learning Community

DJ Kriptive

DJ Kriptive, an electrifying talent from East LA, blends hip-hop, EDM, and Latin rhythms to create a unique sound. Inspired by his diverse surroundings, he started performing at local events and later made a name in the Bay Area's nightlife scene. A producer as well as a performer, DJ Kriptive creates original tracks that reflect his cultural roots. Committed to supporting aspiring artists, he leads workshops and collaborative projects to uplift local talent. With a growing fanbase, DJ Kriptive is poised to become a major figure in the music industry.

Jazmin Ontiveros, Sr. Video Producer, EMPIRE

Jazmin Ontiveros is a Mexican-American producer and director from San Francisco with over 10 years of experience in video production and social media. As the Senior Video Producer at EMPIRE, she leads their content team and works with various artists to create engaging content that enhances the brand. Jazmin holds a Bachelor's Degree from UC Berkeley and a Master’s Degree from USC’s School of Cinematic Arts.

Lydia Guerrero, Entrepreneur

Lydia is a passionate Latina entrepreneur dedicated to health and wellness. She founded her juicing and Seamoss company to help people nourish their bodies with natural, high-quality ingredients. With a deep belief in the power of holistic health, Lydia crafts fresh, nutrient-rich juices and Seamoss blends that support vitality and well-being. Her mission is to make wellness accessible while inspiring others to prioritize their health through the power of nature.

Jose Cordon, Entrepreneur & Poet

Jose Cordon, known as CordonConcepts, is an entrepreneur, spoken word poet, and Antioch’s Poet Laureate. He founded Grassroots Poetry and has developed art and culture programs in Contra Costa County. His poetry, which has millions of views on social media, has been shared with the US Treasury, Google, and universities nationwide. Featured in billboard campaigns, documentaries, and award-winning films, Cordon uses his background as a community organizer and son of immigrants to deliver impactful, educational poems.

Lessons and Blessings: Using Hip-Hop to Enhance Your Life and Well-Being

Jason Wu, Rymo Cortado, Joel Tarman, & Sunset Youth Services

Workshop Info: Our workshop empowers students by showcasing how Hip-Hop culture positively impacts various aspects of their lives beyond being just a hobby. The skills gained—such as confidence, creativity, public speaking, and technical abilities in technology, literacy, and business—are transferable to many areas of personal and professional growth.

We begin with a check-in to understand students' interests and experiences with Hip-Hop. Our staff from Sunset Youth Services will share personal stories about how Hip-Hop has shaped their journeys. Students will then break into groups to create posters outlining their goals and lessons learned. Using these posters for inspiration, we will collaboratively create a song, reinforcing personal aspirations while teaching songwriting and spontaneity.

The workshop concludes with a Q&A session and final advice, leaving students feeling empowered and inspired to continue their creative journeys with Hip-Hop.

Jason Wu ("Dragon of the West") - Main Facilitator

Jason Wu, also known as Dragon of the West, is a San Francisco native and music producer. He studied Broadcasting and Electronic Communication Arts at San Francisco State University before working as a freelance video editor and later joining Sunset Youth Services as a Creative Lead. There, he facilitates studio sessions and teaches youth music production and songwriting. In his free time, he enjoys video games, breakdancing, and creating music.

Joel Tarman

Joel has been part of Sunset Youth Services since 2007 and leads its digital arts program. With a degree in sociology and urban studies from Eastern University, he has worked extensively with high-risk youth, focusing on leadership, employment training, and project-based learning. A certified Pro Tools operator, he trains and mentors youth in music technology and production.

Anthony Flores

Anthony, a Los Angeles native, joined the Bay Area in summer 2023 and now teaches youth video and broadcast production at Sunset Youth Services. As a Creative Specialist, he mentors high school students in photography, videography, editing, and media literacy. Previously, he worked in scripted television, producing shows for HBO, Prime Video, and Discovery+. Outside of work, he enjoys longboarding and spending time with his Shih-Poo dog.

Vicky Fashho

Vicky, a Sunset native and former Sunset Youth Services participant, joined the team in 2001 and now serves as Youth Employment Coordinator. A certified Career Services Provider, she supports youth ages 14-24, specializing in case management for young women at risk of legal system involvement. Fluent in Arabic and English, she helps guide young people toward career and personal growth.

The art of Beatboxing & livelooping - my journey in music

Butterscotch

Workshop Info: Explore the art of beatboxing and vocal music in this hands-on workshop! Learn fundamental sounds, rhythms, and microphone techniques while creating original songs. Beyond music, this workshop promotes mental well-being by reducing stress, boosting confidence, and fostering creativity. It also provides an inclusive space, especially for the LGBTQ+ community, where self-expression and connection thrive. Music is a powerful tool for identity, empowerment, and belonging. Whether you're a beginner or experienced, this workshop offers a fun, interactive way to enhance vocal skills, creativity, and emotional well-being in a supportive environment.

Bio: Butterscotch, the vocal percussionist virtuosa, uses her powerful voice to defy gender and music social constructs. She began her career in the underground male-dominated beatbox battle scene, where she was crowned the world’s first female beatbox champion. Soon thereafter, a breakthrough performance on America’s Got Talent lead her to place third on the hit TV show. Butterscotch has opened for Marshmello, Russ, Erykah Badu, Earth, Wind & Fire, Thievery Corporation, Sergio Mendes, Wyclef Jean and other musical legends. Butterscotch blends Hip-Hop, Jazz, Soul and Reggae and her shows are emotionally and physically invigorating with her trifecta fusion of singing, beatboxing, and playing either piano or guitar simultaneously, or creating endless layers on her loop station. With a voice reminiscent of Billie Holiday and rap verses comparable to Lauryn Hill, Butterscotch courageously sings about her love life, depression, and daily struggles of being a biracial queer woman of color. Her philanthropic mission is to empower and elevate people through music and compassion.

Website: butterscotchmusic.com

Social Media: Instagram

Street Dance Fundamentals

Steven “Zulu Gremlin” Roybal

Hosted by Professor Amber Steele

DANC 130: Jazz Dance

Workshop Info: Take part in an introductory level dance class focused on the fundamentals of street dance within Hip-Hop culture. Through detailed demonstrations and repetition, students will receive verbal cues on movement, rhythm, and the authentic execution of each style. Learn to perform these dances as they were originally intended, perfectly paired with the music they were made for. This workshop offers a professional-level experience, providing a deep understanding of the techniques and cultural roots behind these dynamic movements.

Bio: Zulu Gremlin, born Stephen John Roybal in Pico Rivera, California, is a Los Angeles-based dancer, entrepreneur, and creative force. With a family deeply rooted in music and dance, he began performing professionally in 1981, blending versatility, innovation, and business acumen to build a lasting legacy. Beyond dance, he is passionate about music, fashion, rare collectibles, and artist development, balancing his career with family life. He believes dance is a celebration of life and continues to inspire new generations through teaching and performance. His style is influenced by legends like Demons of the Mind, Ken Swift, and the Jackson 5.

Website: www.zulugremlin.com

Social Media: Instagram

Getting Down on the Wall - Spray Can Art

Amir Esfahani

Workshop Info: Get ready for an exciting Graffiti Workshop where participants will have the opportunity to create art. Participants will learn the basics of graffiti techniques and style. The artists will be on hand to share their expertise, provide inspiration, and demonstrate their craft. This hands-on workshop is a great chance to explore graffiti art, and visual expression.

Hip Hop History & Culture: Through Women's Eyes

Lil MC & Amani Jade

Workshop Info: This workshop highlights the influential female pioneers of Hip-Hop, showcasing their contributions to the culture. We’ll explore what makes a "G.O.A.T" activity, followed by a songwriting session where you'll create original lyrics inspired by a female muse. The workshop will conclude with a Cypher and Share Out, where participants can perform and celebrate their work while honoring the legacy of women in Hip-Hop.

Hip Hop Social Justice

Davey D

Workshop Info: This workshop explores the rise of West Coast Hip Hop and its role as a powerful voice against systemic injustice. From N.W.A.'s bold critiques of policing to Tupac Shakur’s reflections on poverty and racism, West Coast artists have used their music to challenge issues like housing discrimination, homelessness, and police brutality. Through lyric analysis, historical context, and multimedia clips, participants will examine how artists from the 1980s to today have shaped conversations around race, inequality, and resistance. Attendees will engage in discussions about the impact of Hip Hop on social justice movements and how the genre continues to inspire activism. Whether you're a Hip Hop fan, a scholar, or a community advocate, this workshop will deepen your understanding of the cultural and political significance of West Coast Hip Hop.

Bio: Dave ‘Davey D’ Cook is a renowned journalist, adjunct professor at San Francisco State University, and influential figure in Hip Hop. With over 35 years of experience in media, activism, and academia, Davey D is a respected Hip Hop historian, political commentator, and syndicated talk show host. He has contributed to documentaries like Hip Hop Evolution and American Gangster and appeared on platforms such as CNN, BET, and Democracy Now. Co-founder of Hard Knock Radio, his award-winning show examines the intersection of Hip Hop and politics. Davey D has authored several books on Hip Hop culture and continues to advocate for media justice and political activism.

From Gang Bangers to Gods: Building Community and Collectivism Through Hip Hop Culture

Unlearn The World

Workshop Info: In this presentation and interactive workshop, we aim to unpack the challenges of communal responsibility within Hip Hop amidst a heavy consumer capitalist society that emphasizes individualism. We will take a look at today's rap music industry and the corporate co-optation of Hip Hop as a social engineering mechanism that forces many young Black and Brown men to perpetuate negative stereotypes while building unseen pipelines into self destructive behavior patterns and the prison industrial complex.

We will also explore Dr. Abraham Mazlow's Hierarchy Of Needs as it relates to how collectivism can still serve the individual as a means of realizing and asserting one’s identity and destiny. Lastly, we look at today's current political and social climate and explore the many obstacles that stand in the face of solidarity, organization and mobilization within political movements adjacent to and rooted in Hip Hop music and culture. We will conclude by identifying and discussing best practices found in Hip Hop collectivism to build up and elevate individuals as well community among students in classrooms and other programmatic group settings.

Bio: Marlon Richardson, known as UnLearn The World, is a chart-topping Hip Hop artist and award-winning educator. A product of NYC’s late '90s underground scene, he has performed alongside legends like Talib Kweli, Rakim, and KRS-One and collaborated with artists such as Ghostface Killah and Royce Da 5’9”. His recent album, The God That Sins, debuted in the iTunes Top 50 in the US and UK. As Executive Director of Hip Hop For Change, he develops curriculum and teaches Hip Hop history, rap songwriting, and social justice. He has lectured at institutions from UC Berkeley to Harvard and received the 49ers Foundation’s Follow Your Bliss Award in 2022.

Social Media: Instagram

Spoken Word Workshop

Jose Cordon

Workshop Info: Join us for an inspiring workshop that celebrates the art of MCing and Spoken Word! This session will provide a space to explore the power of poetry and performance, with a focus on lyrical expression, storytelling, and stage presence. Participants will engage in a Q&A to learn from experienced poets and MCs, followed by poetry performances that showcase their creative work. The workshop will culminate in an open mic, allowing everyone to share their voices and connect through the art of spoken word. Whether you're a seasoned performer or new to the craft, this workshop offers an inclusive space for self-expression and community connection.

Bio: Jose Cordon, known as CordonConcepts, is an entrepreneur, spoken word poet, and Antioch’s Poet Laureate. He founded Grassroots Poetry and has developed art and culture programs in Contra Costa County. His poetry, which has millions of views on social media, has been shared with the US Treasury, Google, and universities nationwide. Featured in billboard campaigns, documentaries, and award-winning films, Cordon uses his background as a community organizer and son of immigrants to deliver impactful, educational poems.

Social Media: Instagram

Turf Dance Styles

Leon The Lion

Bio: Growing up, I started getting into dance at the age of 6-7. Since then, I haven’t stopped. This art form, which is a major piece of Hip-Hop, has taken me to heights and goals I once dreamed of. Now, being in the present, I can give back to the community and teach the culture of the Bay Area’s very own movement, TURFIN / TURF dancing.

ACROSS THE ELEMENTS: HIP-HOP CULTURE, MUTUAL REGARD + THE FILIPINX CREATIVE

JAEYA BAYANI

Bio: Jaeya "Jaeonic" Bayani is a Filipinx singer-songwriter, dancer, and rapper from the Bay Area. A Columbia College Chicago honors graduate, she is a 2024 GrammyU Ambassador and recipient of the CCC Parker Lee Williams Award for Hip-Hop Excellence. She works in the global Filipino music industry as Music Publishing Administration Coordinator for Thizzler on the Roof and co-produced Kapwa Chicago Vol. I. Her 2023 EP BAYANI led to performances at SXSW and APAture’s 25th Annual Music Showcase. Passionate about artist advocacy, she aims to pursue a law degree to support Filipino artists in need of legal representation.

OFFICIAL RTSB 18 Merch