Rich Medina & Greg Tate (US)

With the Powertalk format, we create a safer space in which players from different generations are brought together to have conversations and discussions, share knowledge, experiences and practical tools to deal with different situations and power dynamics within the cultural sector. We strive to unite cultural leaders and game changers and as a community to increase our self-awareness, share strategies and knowledge as bicultural creatives and how we can take responsibility for this.

In collaboration with the VSB fund, we first conducted a pilot from 2018 to 2020 to develop the Powertalk concept. The focus in this pilot was mainly on bringing together community leaders who move within the cultural scene in Rotterdam to discuss ownership, power dynamics and claiming space. As part of this pilot we invited inspirational speakers Rich Medina, Astrid elburg, Edson Sabajo, Afaina de Jong, Wayne Modest, Sylvana Simons, Emory Douglas and Guillaume Philibert.

After the pilot ended in 2020, we have further developed the Powertalk format to not only reach local community leaders but also involve national community leaders. In the period 2021-2023 we invited, among others, Lynnée Denise (US), Kelechi Okafor (UK), Adreinne Waheed (US), Jonathan McCrory (US), Lakwena Maciver (UK) and CR Capers (US). In addition, Zaïre Krieger hosted the Power Talk 'Power Moves in Media' with speakers Hesdy Lonwijk, Shay Kreuger and Ivette Forster.

About The Talk

On October 15, 2019, we hosted a conversation between two heavyweights Greg Tate & Rich Medina. Andrew Makkinga was the moderator and the focus of the conversation was endurance: how do you build a sustainable practice in hip-hop culture? How do we keep growing and keep changing the game while staying healthy?

Special thanks to John Agesilas and Wereldmuseum.

Greg Tate (US)

Greg Tate is a writer, musician, and cultural critic known for his contributions to African-American art, music, and literature. Born on February 20, 1959, in Dayton, Ohio, Tate emerged as a prominent figure in the late 1980s and early 1990s, particularly through his work as a writer and critic for publications such as The Village Voice.

Tate's writing encompasses a broad range of topics, including music, literature, visual arts, and cultural criticism. He has an extensive body of work that delves into the intersections of race, identity, and popular culture, with a particular focus on African-American music genres like jazz, hip-hop, and funk. His writing style is characterized by a unique blend of sharp analysis, poetic prose, and a deep understanding of the socio-political contexts in which artistic expressions evolve. 

Aside from his writing, Tate is also an accomplished musician and a founding member of the Black Rock Coalition, an organization dedicated to supporting and promoting black artists in rock music. He has collaborated with various musicians and bands, incorporating elements of rock, funk, and jazz into his musical compositions.

Greg Tate's work has garnered critical acclaim and has had a lasting impact on the cultural landscape. His writings and insights have influenced and inspired generations of artists, writers, and scholars, opening up new avenues for understanding and appreciating African-American art and culture. 
 
 

RICH MEDINA (USA)

On October the 21th 2019, we invited DJ, Producer & Lecturer Rich Medina (USA) for a talk about HipHop beyond the elements.

Rich Medina is a renowned DJ, producer, and spoken word artist known for his influential contributions to the music scene. In the late 1980s, Medina began DJing, honing his skills and building a reputation for his diverse selections and seamless mixes. He gained recognition for his DJing in New York City clubs and parties.

Medina's passion for music expanded beyond DJing. He started hosting events, such as the popular "Jump N' Funk" parties, dedicated to celebrating the music of Fela Kuti and the Afrobeat genre. These events showcased his deep knowledge and appreciation for African music and its influence on global sounds. Alongside his DJ career, Medina has also released original music and remixes. He collaborated with various artists and producers, infusing his unique style into his productions. His work has received critical acclaim and resonated with music lovers worldwide.

In addition to his DJing and music production, Medina is an accomplished, spoken word artist. He has performed at numerous venues, delivering powerful and thought-provoking poetry that reflects his experiences, observations, and social consciousness. Rich Medina's impact on the music industry extends beyond his performances. He is celebrated for his role in preserving and promoting diverse musical cultures and genres. 

Watch the full Powertalk below!