KPFA - Hard Knock Radio

On a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D welcomed three distinguished guests—Dr. James Lance Taylor, Dr. Melina Abdullah, and Daryle Lamont Jenkins—to discuss the growing influence of white supremacy, the importance of organizing, and the resistance needed to confront these challenges. The conversation covered a wide array of issues, from the policies of the Trump administration to the need for community-based organizing and the historical context of white dominance in America. Daryle Lamont Jenkins on the Trump Administration’s Impact Daryle Lamont Jenkins, Executive Director of One People’s Project, shared his concerns about the dangerous team Trump has assembled in his second term. Jenkins highlighted the increasing role of white supremacist ideologies in government, particularly with the rise of figures like Stephen Miller and Steve Bannon. He warned that the political establishment, including both the far right and some elements within the Democratic Party, is facilitating the growth of fascism. “We have to pay attention to how we respond,” Jenkins stressed, “because if we wait too long, it will be too late.” He also discussed the alarming potential of Trump’s policies, such as the challenge to birthright citizenship, and the implications of a “Convention of the States” that could bypass Congress. According to Jenkins, these efforts could lead to further exclusion of marginalized communities. Dr. Melina Abdullah on Unmasking White Supremacy Dr. Melina Abdullah, a co-founder of Black Lives Matter Los Angeles, expressed concern about the resurgence of violent white supremacy. She pointed to recent events, including the Nazi salute by Elon Musk, as signs of how openly fascist ideologies are becoming. “We’re facing a white supremacy unlike anything we’ve ever seen,” Abdullah said, stressing that this unmasked violence is not only targeting Black people but all oppressed groups. Abdullah emphasized the need for preparedness, both in terms of community defense and mutual aid. “Don’t be scared. Be prepared,” she urged. She also reflected on the importance of organizing outside the electoral system, recognizing that true power lies in grassroots movements, not in the hands of politicians. Dr. James Lance Taylor on the Historical Context of White Supremacy Dr. James Lance Taylor, political science professor at USF, took a historical approach to the discussion, reminding listeners that white supremacy has always been the foundation of American society. He argued that the civil rights victories of the 20th century were anomalies, not the norm. “Racism is the norm in America,” he asserted, noting that periods of peace and progress are exceptions rather than the rule. Dr. Taylor criticized the myth of American progress, highlighting how the fight against systemic racism is ongoing. He underscored the importance of historical awareness, especially in understanding the limitations of the current political system. “The devil has always been in America,” he remarked, suggesting that the country’s foundations are rooted in oppression. Organizing and Building Power for the Future Throughout the conversation, all three guests agreed that resistance must be rooted in organizing at the local level. They pointed to the work of groups like Black Lives Matter and emphasized the importance of community safety, mutual aid, and the protection of Black autonomy. Abdullah called for a focus on organizing “black power” and building strong communities that can withstand the forces of fascism. Dr. Taylor reinforced the idea that resistance is necessary, stating, “We need to fight wherever we are.” Jenkins echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of not only recognizing the threat posed by white supremacy but actively combating it through historical awareness and grassroots organizing. The Role of Electoral Politics in Resistance The discussion also touched on the limitations of electoral politics. While acknowledging that individuals...

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 – January 20, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

On a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, Davey D spoke with Liddell Hayes, founder and CEO of Operation Flame, a nonprofit organization that provides wildfire fighting training to young adults in disadvantaged communities. Hayes, who himself fought fires while incarcerated, shared insightful perspectives on the challenges of incarcerated firefighters and the vital work his organization is doing to empower youth through firefighting skills. Liddell Hayes’ Journey from Incarceration to Firefighting Liddell Hayes’ path to becoming a firefighter began in an unexpected place: prison. Before his incarceration, Hayes had little knowledge of wildfires or firefighting. “I didn’t know nothing about wildfires before incarceration. But once I went through the training, it changed my life,” he explained. Hayes was introduced to fire camp, a program where incarcerated individuals are trained to fight wildfires. Despite his initial lack of experience, he excelled in the training and was sent out to fight actual fires. Hayes credits this experience for opening his eyes to a new world and giving him a sense of purpose. “You learn how to save life, property, and the environment. It was life-changing,” he said. However, the challenges of fighting fires were not over when he left the fire camp. The obstacles Hayes encountered in the workforce after his release were just beginning. Barriers to Employment for Incarcerated Firefighters Upon release, Hayes faced significant challenges when trying to transition into a career in firefighting. Many incarcerated firefighters struggle to find employment in municipal fire departments due to their criminal records, despite the rigorous training they undergo. Hayes recalled, “It was challenging to find work. Some agencies wouldn’t even consider us because of our felony background.” This issue is compounded by the difficulty in securing a job with departments that require additional certifications, such as EMT or paramedic training. “You’re looking at counties, city departments, those that do more structural firefighting… those departments meet resistance when hiring people like us,” he explained. Moreover, Hayes emphasized the feeling of exploitation that many incarcerated firefighters experience. “We were working long shifts, sometimes 48 hours straight, without the same benefits or breaks as others. You do feel exploited,” he said, highlighting the physical and emotional toll of the work, which often goes unrecognized. Operation Flame: Empowering Youth with Firefighting Skills Determined to help others avoid the struggles he faced, Hayes founded Operation Flame, a nonprofit dedicated to teaching young people in disadvantaged communities how to fight wildfires. Through the organization, Hayes provides youth with firefighting skills and certificates that can lead to job opportunities. “We’re giving young adults from South Central Los Angeles the chance to learn a trade and fight wildfires. It’s a skill that can change their lives,” Hayes said. In just one year, Hayes’ organization trained over 140 young people—far surpassing their initial goal of two cohorts. Hayes has already seen success, with several trainees receiving job offers from major firefighting agencies. “We’ve had young people get hired by the Forest Service and Cal Fire. It’s been a blessing to see them succeed,” Hayes shared. The Need for Support and Expansion As the organization grows, Hayes is working to establish a permanent training facility to expand their reach and impact. “We need a facility to operate full-time. Donations will help us get there and make this a sustainable resource for the community,” he urged. Hayes is also seeking funding for a down payment on the building, which would allow Operation Flame to conduct more classes and provide more opportunities for young adults. For those interested in supporting Operation Flame, Hayes encouraged donations via their website at operationflame.org. Additionally, Hayes invites anyone in...

In a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D sat down with Kalanji Changa of Black Power Media and activist/producer Jeanine Etter to discuss their exciting new initiative, Soul Cinema Sundays. This event seeks to spotlight underrepresented Black films while providing an educational component about activism and social justice. The Birth of Soul Cinema Sundays Jeanine Etter, former Bay Area producer and now based in Atlanta, explained that Soul Cinema Sundays is a continuation of a grassroots initiative she started in the Bay Area years ago. Frustrated by the limited and often negative portrayals of Black people in mainstream cinema, she and her friends gathered in their homes to watch underground films. These included classics such as Chameleon Street, The Spook Who Sat by the Door, and Love, Sex, and Eating the Bones. The new series in Atlanta builds upon this tradition, bringing Black underground films to the big screen with a twist: each screening will feature an activist group discussing the themes of the film and how viewers can get involved in related causes. The first film in the series is The Last Black Man in San Francisco, which will be shown on January 19. Following the screening, the Housing Justice League will discuss the ongoing issue of gentrification, making the event both a cultural and educational experience. A Space for Political Education and Resistance Kalanji Changa, a long-time activist and educator, shared his perspective on the importance of such a film series. As someone deeply involved in creative resistance, Changa believes that combining art with activism is essential for raising awareness and promoting social change. He emphasized that through Soul Cinema Sundays, they aim to engage people in the conversation around gentrification, imperialism, and cultural genocide—issues that are far from new but are gaining renewed relevance today. Changa pointed out that many cities, including San Francisco, New Orleans, and even Atlanta, are experiencing similar challenges of displacement and cultural erasure. The Last Black Man in San Francisco serves as a perfect example of this phenomenon, exploring themes of belonging and loss as the Black community in San Francisco faces rapid gentrification. The Importance of Art in the Struggle Both Changa and Etter discussed how the current political climate amplifies the need for films that reflect the realities of Black life and resistance. As Changa put it, “Art imitating life and life imitating art” has never been more evident, as films like The Last Black Man in San Francisco are more than just stories—they are reflections of what’s happening in our communities today. They also touched on the need to counteract the growing cultural censorship seen in the U.S., from book bans to attempts to silence films that highlight Black stories. The Soul Cinema Sundays series pushes back against these efforts by providing a platform for these vital narratives to be seen and discussed. As Etter mentioned, it’s not just about showing films; it’s about creating a community space for dialogue and activism. The Significance of Gentrification and Cultural Resistance Throughout the conversation, the topic of gentrification emerged as a central issue. Changa highlighted that gentrification is a form of cultural genocide, erasing the history and legacy of Black communities. He stressed that the displacement of Black people is not just a byproduct of rising rents but a deliberate process aimed at destroying the cultural fabric of cities. Changa also reflected on the broader impact of systemic oppression and how artists, activists, and educators play a crucial role in resisting these forces. By creating spaces like Soul Cinema Sundays, they hope to raise awareness and inspire action among attendees. Upcoming Films and Future Plans Soul Cinema Sundays is just getting started, with more screenings planned for the coming months. After The Last Black Man in San Francisco, the next...

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 – January 15, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

In a powerful conversation on Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D sat down with Cat Brooks, co-founder of the Anti-Police Terror Project (APTP), and artist Chris Burger to discuss the ongoing efforts to reclaim the radical legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The discussion focused on Dr. King’s radical views, which are often overlooked in mainstream narratives, and the importance of continuing his fight for justice and equality today. The Radical Side of Dr. King Cat Brooks explained that many people only recognize Dr. King for his “I Have a Dream” speech, neglecting his later years when his views became increasingly radical. Dr. King began to critique not just racism, but also capitalism, imperialism, and the war in Vietnam. This aspect of his legacy is often erased or whitewashed, but it was during these years that Dr. King became a vocal advocate for systemic change. Brooks shared that in 2009, Maurice Mitchell issued a national call to reclaim King’s radical legacy, urging activists to challenge the sanitized version of Dr. King’s life. This call led to the creation of the annual Reclaim the King Legacy week in Oakland, which has become a powerful tradition of resistance, empowerment, and joy in the streets. Direct Action: A Tribute to King’s Legacy The week-long celebration includes direct actions, film screenings, panel discussions, and mutual aid events. Brooks emphasized that the reclaiming of Dr. King’s legacy is not just about remembering his words but actively engaging in direct action, something King himself supported. She pointed out that King was arrested multiple times for breaking unjust laws, particularly in the fight against segregation, and used direct action as a tool for social change. Chris Berger added that Dr. King’s legacy is about being in the streets with the people, resisting oppression through self-determination, and empowering communities to organize for their freedom. The APTP’s work today, from mental health initiatives to anti-police activism, reflects King’s commitment to justice. The State of Our Political Climate As the conversation moved to the present moment, the speakers discussed the challenges of today’s political climate. With increasing fascism and systemic violence, Brooks argued that Dr. King would be engaged in organizing, shifting tactics to meet the current political conditions. The ability to adapt, to “change strategies as conditions change,” was one of Dr. King’s strengths, and it remains essential today. Chris Berger emphasized that King would be organizing around the needs of the people, focusing on community support and empowerment, rather than relying on the state to solve issues of injustice. He shared his own experience with APTP’s efforts to provide healing, including access to mental health resources, to those affected by police violence. A Legacy of Service to the People A central theme of the conversation was the idea of service to the community. Both Brooks and Berger reiterated that the true work of organizing comes from meeting people where they are, understanding their needs, and working alongside them. It’s not about ego, but about serving the people with humility and dedication. They called for organizers to focus on long-term, systemic change, rather than momentary fame or attention. Berger also discussed the importance of community-driven initiatives, such as his work with Love Phenomena, a project that integrates music with digital literacy and workforce development. These efforts reflect Dr. King’s belief in self-determination and empowering communities to shape their futures. Upcoming Events: Celebrating and Continuing Dr. King’s Legacy The conversation wrapped up with details on upcoming events to celebrate Dr. King’s radical legacy. On Thursday, January 16th, APTP will kick off its Reclaim the King Legacy Week with a fundraiser at Bamhouse, 1540 Broadway in Oakland, featuring performances by Love Phenomena, Chris Burger, Jennifer Johns, and a conversation...

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 – January 13, 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 – January 10, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

In a compelling episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D brings together a powerful panel to discuss the intersection of media justice, net neutrality, and the evolving role of social media. Joining him are Steven Renderos, executive director of the Center for Media Justice, journalist author Jennifer Pozner founder of Women in Media, and local hip hop artist and tech educator Chris Burger. Together, they dive into the long-term consequences of corporate control over digital spaces, the importance of net neutrality, and the ways in which social media platforms are influencing public discourse. The Battle for Net Neutrality The episode opens with a conversation about the recent legal challenges to net neutrality, the principle that ensures equal access to all online content. Renderos explains why net neutrality is crucial for maintaining an open and democratic internet. He notes, “Net neutrality is essentially the idea that the internet should remain a free and open space where all voices, regardless of size or wealth, are treated equally.” He goes on to detail how the recent legal challenges threaten this principle, which could lead to corporations like Comcast and Verizon creating “fast lanes” for large companies while leaving smaller voices, like independent journalists or content creators, stuck in the slow lanes. Renderos underscores the far-reaching effects these changes could have: “What we’re seeing is the slow erosion of the space that allows independent voices to thrive, making it easier for big corporations to dominate the internet. That’s what’s at stake here — and we need to protect the open internet for everyone.” The Impact of Social Media Manipulation Jennifer Pozner, a veteran of the media justice movement and a strong advocate for gender equality in media, draws attention to the harmful impact of social media algorithms. She describes how platforms like Facebook and Twitter manipulate content feeds to maximize engagement, often promoting outrage and misinformation. “When social media platforms put profit over people, they amplify voices that spread hate and misinformation,” Pozner explains. “We’ve seen the rise of conspiracy theories, the spread of disinformation, and now we’re seeing platforms like Facebook remove fact-checking altogether. This isn’t just about misinformation; it’s about who gets to control the narrative.” Pozner, who has personally faced harassment online, also addresses the gender-based and racialized violence that many women and people of color experience on these platforms. She recounts how, in the aftermath of the Charlottesville rally, she became the target of a coordinated harassment campaign simply for speaking out. “I’ve had to leave platforms because of the constant threats. But the reality is, women have been facing this kind of harassment for years before many people started paying attention,” she says. Empowering the Next Generation: Chris Burger’s Perspective Chris Burger, known for his work as a local artist and tech educator, brings a unique perspective to the discussion. As someone who teaches digital literacy to youth in Oakland, Burger emphasizes the importance of empowering young people to take control of their online presence. “The most important network is the human network,” Burger states. “We need to teach our youth that owning your data and understanding how tech works is just as important as creating great music or art.” Burger is deeply involved in training young people in the ins and outs of technology, showing them how to navigate the digital world and become creators, not just consumers. He explains, “We’re teaching kids how to own their content, how to protect their data, and how to use technology to build their own platforms. This is about giving them the tools to push back against the corporations that want to control their online experience.” Burger’s commitment to creating community-driven solutions is evident as he shares an inspiring story about building...

Davey D starts the show by playing Bugalooza, Louisiana by Brenton Wood, a tribute to the legendary soul singer who passed away over the holidays. Davey acknowledges Brenton’s influence on West Coast culture, particularly among lowriders and fans of rare soul. Gary Baca’s Perspective on the LA Fires Davey D then turns to Gary Baca, also known as G-Spot, for an update on the wildfires affecting Los Angeles. Gary, a longtime KPFK host, shares his experience of the fires’ devastation in Southern California. He mentions the widespread evacuations in areas like Altadena, Pasadena, Malibu, and Sierra Madre. Gary describes the extreme winds, reaching speeds of 100 mph, which are exacerbating the fires. Impact of Extreme Winds Gary details how the winds have made firefighting efforts nearly impossible, comparing the situation to tornado-like conditions. He recalls seeing hazardous flying debris, including tumbleweeds, wood, and even a dog being carried by the winds. The winds have been relentless, continuing for several days and spreading the fires rapidly, particularly in the hilly regions where many homes are at risk. The Oakland Hills Fire of 1991 Davey D reflects on the 1991 Oakland Hills fire, drawing comparisons to the current situation. He shares his memories of the false sense of security people felt as firemen appeared to control the flames, only for the winds to reignite them. Gary agrees, mentioning how the winds carry embers over great distances, putting even distant neighborhoods in danger. Political and Social Impact of the Fires Both Davey and Gary express concern about the social ramifications of the fires, especially considering Los Angeles’s large homeless population. They discuss the broader challenges posed by climate change, insurance issues, and the need for better disaster preparedness. Davey emphasizes the importance of addressing these ongoing issues, noting that the fire season is now a year-round concern. Tribute to Brenton Wood’s Influence on Lowrider Culture The conversation shifts to Brenton Wood’s cultural legacy, particularly within Chicano and Latino communities. Gary Baca reflects on Brenton’s influence in the lowrider culture, highlighting how his music, which spoke to love, breakups, and life’s challenges, resonated deeply with fans. Brenton Wood, a Black artist embraced by Chicanos, tailored his music and image to connect with this audience. His personal performances, even at local backyard parties, made him an iconic figure. Gary’s Personal Connection with Brenton Wood Gary recalls his personal relationship with Brenton Wood, having known him for over 30 years. They met at a car show concert in the Central Valley, and Brenton’s music had a profound impact on Gary. Gary fondly remembers Brenton’s last public appearance with an oxygen mask at a concert, reflecting the singer’s declining health in his final years. Final Thoughts on Brenton Wood’s Legacy Gary Baca concludes by discussing Brenton Wood’s significance to Chicano culture, comparing him to other iconic figures like Frankie Beverly. While the two never collaborated, Gary notes how both artists became central figures in their respective communities. He also reflects on how Brenton’s music, like Catch You on the Rebound, became a soundtrack for life’s struggles and triumphs. The conversation underscores the deep, lasting influence Brenton had on his fans, who saw him as more than just a performer—he was a beloved figure in their cultural identity. Gary’s Experience with Brenton Wood Gary concludes by sharing a personal anecdote of interviewing Brenton Wood on his birthday. Afterward, Brenton took Gary out to dinner, symbolizing the artist’s genuine care and love for his fans. This touching moment encapsulates Brenton’s legacy—not just as a musician, but as someone who made a lasting, personal connection with those who admired him. This conversation highlights the dual significance of the LA fires and Brenton Wood’s cultural impact, painting...

On this episode of Hard Knock Radio Davey D speaks with Bishop Dwight Fowler about the tragic case of Robert Brooks, a 43-year-old man serving a 12-year sentence for assault, who died in the early hours of December 10 after reportedly being beaten by correction officers at Marcy Correctional Facility, an all-male state prison in North Albany. 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 Robert Brooks 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 – January 6, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

On this episode of Hard Knock Radio, we dive into the hidden biases of the digital age with Dr. Safiya Umoja Noble, author of the groundbreaking book, Algorithms of Oppression. Dr. Noble unpacks how search engines, often seen as neutral tools, can reinforce harmful stereotypes and limit access to critical knowledge. Join us as we explore the forces shaping our digital experiences and discuss the urgent need for accountability in technology. Later we hear from political prisoner Mumia Abu-Jamal about the passing of James Earl Carter. James Earl Carter Jr. was an American politician and humanitarian who served as the 39th president of the United States from 1977 to 1981. And lastly we play a speech from Immortal Technique. Featuring: Dr. Safiya U. Noble is the David O. Sears Presidential Endowed Chair of Social Sciences and Professor of Gender Studies, African American Studies, and Information Studies at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is the Director of the Center on Race & Digital Justice and Co-Director of the Minderoo Initiative on Tech & Power at the UCLA Center for Critical Internet Inquiry (C2i2). She currently serves as Interim Director of the UCLA DataX Initiative, leading work in critical data studies for the campus. 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. Decoding Algorithmic Racism with Dr. Safiya Umoja Noble The post Decoding Algorithmic Racism with Dr. Safiya Umoja Noble and Voices of Resistance 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 – January 2, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

On a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D hosted an in-depth conversation about the ongoing prison justice issues in Virginia, specifically the disturbing conditions at Red Onion State Prison. Joined by Phil Wilayto of the Virginia Prison Justice Network and Woods Ervin from Critical Resistance, the discussion delved into the harsh realities faced by incarcerated individuals, including protests through self-immolation, systemic abuse, and the ongoing fight for prison reform and abolition. The Red Onion Crisis: Self-Immolation as Protest Phil Wilayto began the discussion by shedding light on the extreme conditions at Red Onion Prison, a supermax facility known for its notorious reputation. Prisoners have been protesting their dire conditions, including solitary confinement and severe mistreatment by guards, through self-immolation. Wilayto explained that many prisoners, trapped in these conditions, intentionally injure themselves to be transferred to medical facilities, often far from the prison, in hopes of escaping the abuse they face. The prison, which holds predominantly Black individuals, is located in a rural part of Virginia far from urban centers. As Wilayto described, the systemic racism at play, combined with a lack of adequate healthcare and human rights protections, results in an environment where prisoners’ lives are treated as expendable. The issues have been compounded by the state’s refusal to investigate allegations properly and the general public’s negligence in addressing the conditions. The Power of Grassroots Organizing: Critical Resistance’s Role Woods Ervin provided a broader perspective on the situation, contextualizing it within the larger framework of prison abolition. As a member of Critical Resistance, Ervin emphasized the importance of grassroots organizing in exposing the inhumanity of the prison system. Critical Resistance has been a consistent force in advocating for the end of solitary confinement and the dismantling of supermax prisons across the country. Ervin noted that while some progress has been made”such as the reduction in solitary confinement numbers at Red Onion in previous years”true justice will only be achieved when the prison system itself is abolished. He also pointed to the rise of right-wing rhetoric and policies, which have made the fight for reform more difficult but not insurmountable. Organizing, public pressure, and maintaining a clear focus on abolition are key elements in shifting the political climate. A Call to Action: How You Can Help Both Wilayto and Ervin called on listeners to take action, urging them to support the ongoing efforts of grassroots organizations that are leading the charge for prison justice. Wilayto highlighted a public meeting taking place on December 7, 2024, in Richmond, Virginia, to continue pushing for investigations into Red Onions conditions and to maintain pressure on local legislators. At the same time, Critical Resistance is organizing a correspondence day on December 8, 2024, encouraging volunteers to write letters of solidarity to those incarcerated. Both organizations stressed the importance of building a mass movement to combat the deeply entrenched prison industrial complex and the systems of oppression that sustain it. They also pointed out the importance of direct action, from letter writing to public rallies, as ways to keep the momentum going. Closing Thoughts: The Ongoing Struggle for Abolition The conversation on Hard Knock Radio highlighted the disturbing realities inside prisons like Red Onion and the systemic efforts needed to address them. Wilayto and Ervin agreed that the path to true justice requires more than just reform”it requires a complete overhaul of the prison system. Abolition is the end goal, and until then, grassroots activism remains a powerful tool in the fight for incarcerated individuals rights. Listeners were encouraged to stay involved, whether by attending rallies, writing letters, or contacting...

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 – December 31, 2024 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 – December 30, 2024 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 – December 27, 2024 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 – December 26, 2024 appeared first on KPFA.

On this episode of Hard Knock, Davey D interviews Lyrics Born, a pioneering figure in independent hip-hop, about his extensive career in the music industry. They discuss his artistic evolution, the impact of his work on the hip-hop scene, and his upcoming project, Goodbye Sticky Rice, is set to be a significant release, as it marks a reflective moment in his career. Known for being a pioneering figure in independent hip-hop, Lyrics Born has continually evolved as an artist. This album is expected to explore themes of identity, change, and cultural roots, as the title suggests a farewell to something deeply personal. The title, Goodbye Sticky Rice, reference his Asian-American heritage, with “sticky rice” symbolizing a cultural connection. Lyrics Born has always woven his personal experiences into his music. This album dives into themes like cultural duality and transitions in both his personal life and musical journey. The conversation delves into the challenges and rewards of sustaining a long-term career in music, as well as Lyrics Born’s creative process behind this new release. 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 Lyrics Born (Encore) appeared first on KPFA.