KPFA - Hard Knock Radio

We speak with Dancin’ Doug one of the very FIRST Original B-Boy about the history of Hip-Hop dance and the break dancing being included in the Olympics 2024. Dancin’ Doug talks about Break Dancers at the very start of the Hip Hop Era at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue in the Bronx on August 11, 1973. With his unique break dance style, Douglas was named Dancin Doug by DJ Kool Herc and MC Coke La Rock, the Original Founders of Hip-Hop. He, along with the other Creators of Break Dancing, was officially recognized for creating Break Dancing or BBoy/Breakin by the City and State of New York in November of 2021. After our conversation with Dancin Doug friend to Hard Knock and journalist Thandisizwe Chimurenga brings us a perspective on the murder of Yazmeen Williams. Ms. Williams body was found by NYC officers wrapped in a sleeping bag inside a trash bag. The medical examiner determined that Williams, 31, had been shot in the head and ruled her death a homicide, angering the Manhattan community where she grew up and still lived. Chad Irish, a disabled man who lives in the neighborhood, into custody for questioning, according to ABC7. And Poor News Network brings us a perspective on America’s war on the poor. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Dancin Doug, Violent Disabled and Poor News Network appeared first on KPFA.

In this episode of Hard Knock Davey D speaks with Dr. Garrett about the passing of Nathan Hare, The Founder of First Black Studies Program. Nathan Hare, a sociologist who helped lead a five-month strike by faculty members and students at what is now San Francisco State University, resulting in an agreement in 1969 to create the country’s first program in Black studies, with him as its director, died at a hospital in San Francisco on June 10. He was 91. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Nathan Hare, 91, The Founder of First Black Studies Program appeared first on KPFA.

In a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D spoke with activist Silky Slim, who works closely with attorney Ben Crump, about the troubling case of Sonya Massey in Illinois. Massey, who called the police for help suspecting a prowler near her home, was shockingly shot in the face by one of the officers who responded. The officer involved had been previously fired from five different agencies. Silky Slim highlighted the systemic issues that allow officers with problematic histories to continue working in law enforcement. He stressed, Were trying to stop those officers that are fired or have been let go by certain departments from being employed by law enforcement again. He expressed concern over how officers like the one who shot Massey manage to “hop across the chessboard” of law enforcement jobs, despite their records. The conversation delved deeper into the specifics of the Massey case, where the officer not only shot Massey but attempted to manipulate the scenario by turning off his body camera. Slim explained, “This officer was a troublemaker; he had been fired for other violations.” He described the officers actions as not just troubled but evil, premeditated, and indicative of a deeper malignancy within some parts of the police force. Addressing the broader implications, Slim criticized systemic failures that allow such individuals to cycle through various departments, endangering communities. He mentioned legislative efforts like the George Floyd policing bill aimed at preventing such officers from being rehired elsewhere. The discussion also touched on the emotional and societal impacts of police violence. Slim shared insights from his extensive work with families affected by police violence, including George Floyd’s family. He detailed the lasting trauma these families endure, noting that the emotional scars reopen with each new incident of police brutality. Every family that Ive worked with called me yesterday. Its a trigger for them, he said, illustrating the widespread and continuing distress caused by such events. Silky Slim called for sustained attention and reform to address these critical issues in law enforcement. He urged listeners to remain vigilant and proactive in demanding accountability and systemic changes to prevent further tragedies and ensure justice for victims like Sonya Massey and their families. Later we speak with Zeiad Abbas Shamrouch the Executive Director at the Middle East Childrens Alliance in Berkeley about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, address to a joint session of Congress on Wednesday, dismissed as utter nonsense criticisms by the United Nations, human rights groups and others that his government has committed war crimes in Gaza and derided protesters as idiots and tools of Iran. Zeiad Abbas Shamrouch is a Palestinian refugee from Dheisheh Refugee camp in the West Bank. He is the cofounder of the Ibdaa Cultural Center in Dheisheh where he served as Co-Director from 1994 to 2008. Zeiad is also a journalist who has worked with Palestinian and international media and has participated in the production of several documentary films. He has a Master of Arts in Social Justice and Intercultural Relations from the School for International Training Graduate Institute. Zeiad is the Executive Director at the Middle East Childrens Alliance in Berkeley. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post The Murder of Sonya Massey and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Speech appeared first on KPFA.

On an enlightening episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D engaged with leading cultural advocates to discuss the transformative power of art in shaping communities and fostering political awareness. The panel featured Hodari Davis of Equity for Edutainment, Mazi Mutafa from Words Beats and Life out of Washington DC and Nataki Garrett of Arts for Everybody. This discussion was part of a broader, nationwide effort unfolding across 18 cities this weekend, aimed at elevating art and culture as mediums for healing and political engagement. Hodari Davis highlighted the role of art in mobilizing community action, especially in Oakland, a city with a rich history of social justice movements. “In Oakland, we’ve utilized culture as a tool to galvanize, motivate, and mobilize people around critical issues, using it to inspire and open hearts to new possibilities,” Davis explained. He connected current efforts to the historical legacy of the Black Panther party, emphasizing that art in Oakland targets transformative action within the community. Mazi Mutafa discussed the intersection of art, culture, and health through the lens of “social prescribing,” a practice where art is employed as a therapeutic medium. “Arts and culture act as medicine, necessary for the well-being of our communities,” said Mutafa. This concept is part of a larger movement recognizing the healing potential of cultural engagement, which is being championed in cities across the nation. Nataki Garrett spoke about the Arts for Everybody initiative, which is orchestrating events in 18 cities to underscore the essential role of the arts in community health and empowerment. “This weekend, we are part of a national celebration where art is not just seen but utilized as a fundamental tool for healing and community building,” Garrett stated. She emphasized that the initiative seeks to demonstrate the indispensable nature of the arts in fostering a healthy, aware, and vibrant society. Davey D also addressed the commercialization of culture, stressing the importance of keeping cultural expressions rooted in community values rather than seeing them as mere commodities. The discussion underscored the need to reclaim and celebrate cultural expressions as foundational to community growth and healing. This episode of Hard Knock Radio not only highlighted the pivotal role of art in societal transformation but also set the stage for a nationwide event focused on using culture to heal and raise political consciousness across the United States. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Art and Activism: A National Dialogue on Hard Knock Radio appeared first on KPFA.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – July 22, 2024 appeared first on KPFA.

In a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D sat down with key figures from the Oakland community to discuss upcoming events and the state of local businesses. Jacky Johnson of Urban Peace Movement, Rita Forte of the Olive Street Agency, and DJ Fuze of Digital Underground shared their insights and experiences on how community efforts are making a positive impact despite challenges. #### Highlighting Community Efforts in Oakland Davey D introduced the session by highlighting an upcoming community block party in the Millsmont Seminary district, organized by the Urban Peace Movement. This event aims to support local businesses and revitalize the neighborhood through arts, culture, and economic recovery initiatives. Jacky Johnson emphasized the importance of these events, which are part of a broader effort funded by the Activate Oakland Event sponsorship program. She noted that out of 700 applications, only 38 were awarded, and their project was one of the fortunate few. #### Addressing Challenges Faced by Local Businesses Rita Forte, an entrepreneur and owner of the Olive Street Agency, spoke about the difficulties local business owners face in Oakland, particularly in the wake of negative media coverage and increased crime rates. Forte shared her concerns about the ongoing challenges of running a brick-and-mortar store, including the impact of theft and the competition from online shopping. She emphasized the importance of building a supportive community and creating a vibrant local economy that encourages residents to shop locally. #### The Role of Media and Public Perception Davey D and his guests discussed how media narratives often overshadow positive community efforts. They noted that stories about crime and business closures frequently dominate headlines, while successful community events and initiatives go unreported. This skewed representation can discourage investment and participation in local events. Johnson pointed out that the success of small businesses is crucial for community safety and cohesion, making it imperative to highlight and support these enterprises. #### The Evolution of Socializing and Entertainment DJ Fuze, a member of the legendary group Digital Underground, reflected on the changes in the nightlife and entertainment scenes in Oakland. He noted that while there has been a decline in weekday crowds at clubs, weekend events remain popular. Fuze also discussed the impact of technology on social interactions, with many people more focused on capturing content for social media rather than engaging in the moment. He suggested that creating cell phone-free environments could enhance the live music experience. #### Musical Trends and the Future of Entertainment DJ Fuze shared insights on current musical trends and the future of the entertainment industry. He noted that concert tours are struggling to sell out, largely due to high ticket prices. However, he highlighted that classic tours, such as those by Nas, are still successful because their fan base has more disposable income. Fuze explained that while big names like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift continue to draw crowds, lesser-known artists face significant challenges. Fuze also talked about his experience as a DJ and how he has always been forward-thinking in introducing new music styles to the Bay Area. He recalled being one of the first to play modern Afrobeat tracks by artists like Burna Boy and Wizkid, which were initially met with skepticism but are now essential in any party playlist. Looking ahead, he identified Amapiano, a genre of house music originating from South Africa, as the next big trend. He predicted that its unique, mellow, yet powerful drum patterns would influence other music genres and become a staple in clubs worldwide. #### Looking Forward: Building a Stronger Community The conversation concluded with a look ahead to the upcoming block party, which promises to offer a range of activities, including live screen printing, free...

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – July 18, 2024 appeared first on KPFA.

In this episode of Hard Knock, we continue with our conversation with Kali Akuno about fascism and the loss of Democracy. Later Poor News Network explores America’s attack on the disenfranchised communities. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post In Conversation with Kali Akuno PT2 and Poor News Network appeared first on KPFA.

In this episode of Hard Knock, Davey D speaks with Kali Akuno about fascism and the loss of Democracy. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post In Conversation with Kali Akuno PT1 appeared first on KPFA.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – July 15, 2024 appeared first on KPFA.

In this episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D sat down with James Lance Taylor Ph.d, professor of politics at the University of San Francisco about the democratic party existing in a panic over Biden’s performance polls and the upcoming election, 2024. Later Homeless advocate Needa B talks about the unhoused issue in Oakland, California and the upcoming teach-ins to educate people about the issue. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Democrats in a Panic Over Biden’s Struggles and The 2024 Election (Part Two) and Unhoused Teach-In appeared first on KPFA.

In this episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D sat down with James Lance Taylor Ph.d, professor of politic at the University of San Francisco about the democratic party existing in a panic over Biden’s performance polls and the upcoming election, 2024. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Democrats in a Panic Over Biden’s Struggles and The 2024 Election appeared first on KPFA.

Davey D speaks with Lisa Graves the founder and Executive Director of True North Research, a national investigative watchdog group that works with journalists and other researchers to shine a bright light on the dark money fueling regressive agendas targeting vital institutions in our republic, such as our courts and public schools. The conversation explores exposing how special interests distort public policy and try to thwart the publics interest in a thriving and inclusive democracy and to impede measures to protect our environment and mitigate climate change. As well as provides listeners with a deep dive into Project 2025 Guest: Lisa Graves is the founder and Executive Director of True North Research, a national investigative watchdog group that works with journalists and other researchers to shine a bright light on the dark money fueling regressive agendas targeting vital institutions in our republic, such as our courts and public schools. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Understanding Dark Money and Project 2025 with Lisa Graves appeared first on KPFA.

In a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with Lawrence Ross, a renowned historian and author. Ross is best known for his critically acclaimed books, “The Divine Nine: The History of African American Fraternities and Sororities” and “Blackballed: The Black and White Politics of Race on America’s Campuses.” The discussion covered a range of pressing issues, from campus politics to the broader societal challenges facing marginalized communities. Campus Politics and Marginalized Students Lawrence Ross, an experienced college lecturer, discussed the historical and current state of campus politics, emphasizing the struggles of marginalized students. He highlighted the systemic oppression faced by these students and the critical need to address these issues thoughtfully. The conversation also explored how student protests are often misinterpreted, particularly when it comes to minority groups and the distinction between criticism of Israel and anti-Semitism. The importance of understanding individualism, the rise of authoritarianism, and the hero’s journey in storytelling were also touched upon. Adaptability, Critical Thinking, and Authoritarianism Ross underscored the necessity of adaptability and critical thinking in preserving democracy, using South American history as a case study on the dangers of authoritarian regimes. He warned of the consequences of government control over artistic and publishing expressions, which could suppress dissent and violate fundamental rights. Additionally, the dialogue included personal anecdotes about growing up in Los Angeles, contrasting the experiences of those from affluent areas with those from less privileged backgrounds. Repressive Measures, Project 2025, and Jim Crow Policies The conversation warned against the normalization of repressive measures by authorities and the concept of a “nicification of America.” Ross discussed Project 2025, likening it to apartheid, and warned about the romanticization of past hardships. He stressed the importance of recognizing the continued impact of Jim Crow-style segregation and racially motivated policies, urging immediate action against these issues to prevent a future under a right-wing authoritarian government. He emphasized that the goal should be organizing for a better future, not merely surviving oppressive conditions. Black History, Power, and Strategic Thinking Ross highlighted the significance of black individuals standing up to power, citing the strategic contributions of Charles Houston, Thurgood Marshall, and Ella Baker to black history. He discussed the Mississippi Health Project’s connection to the Black Panther Party and criticized the narrow definitions of black identity. Ross urged for clear strategies to combat white supremacy and expressed concern over the transactional mindset of the current generation, arguing that wealth and privilege do not necessarily equate to success. Examining Policies and Inequities in Education The effects of policies like the William Jarvis Tax Revolt and the Fair Housing Act on different communities were examined, with a focus on their negative impact on school funding and public services in black and Latino neighborhoods. The conversation delved into the legacy of school segregation and its ongoing implications for education and opportunities. Ross emphasized the unintended consequences of authoritarian regimes on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and the crucial importance of educational choice. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Understanding Project 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – July 8, 2024 appeared first on KPFA.

We speak with author and culture critic Odie Henderson about his latest book, Black Caesars and Foxy Cleopatras: A History of Blaxploitation Cinema. Black Caesars and Foxy Cleopatras is a spirited history of a genre and the movies that he grew up watching, which he loves without irony (but with plenty of self-awareness and humor). Blaxploitation was a major trend, but it was never simple. The films mixed self-empowerment with exploitation, base stereotypes with essential representation that spoke to the lives and fantasies of Black viewers. The time is right for a reappraisal, understanding these films in the context of the time, and exploring their lasting influence. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Black Caesars and Foxy Cleopatras: A History of Blaxploitation Cinema (Encore) appeared first on KPFA.

We look at the meaning of July 4th with a rendition of Frederick Douglass’ speech WHAT, TO THE SLAVE, IS THE FOURTH OF JULY? read by Ossie Davis. Later we present a sermon from Rev Jeremiah Wright titled A More Perfect Union. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post The Meaning of the Fourth of July appeared first on KPFA.

Kalonji Changa speaks with Dhoruba Bin Wahaad about the Supreme Court’s ruling on immunity and fascism. Political commentator Mumia Abu-Jamal explores the US Supreme court’s ruling. Later we speak with Claudia Walker, the author of The ABC’s of HBCU’s. The first ABC book dedicated to historically Black colleges and universities. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Imperial Court for an Imperial President and ABC’s of HBCU’s appeared first on KPFA.

Guest host Thandisizwe Chimurenga speaks with University of San Francisco Professor Dr. James Taylor about the recent Supreme Court’s ruling on immunity. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post US Supreme Court Ruling on Immunity appeared first on KPFA.

We speak with Jacqueline Lugman with the Black Alliance for Peace about Haiti’s political landscape and foreign influence. And later we speak with Michele Lee about her book, Working the Roots: Over 400 Years Of Traditional African American Healing. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Haiti Update and Working The Roots appeared first on KPFA.