Joseph Patel: Indian American Academy Award, Peabody, Grammy, and BAFTA-winning filmmaker. He produced Summer of Soul (...Or, When The Revolution Could Not Be Televised), directed by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, and their follow-up film, SLY LIVES! (aka The Burden of Black Genius). Joseph began his career as a music and culture journalist, later producing and directing television, music videos and commercials for MTV, Vice Media, Vevo, The Fader and more.

NOAH-O: Artist, producer, entrepreneur, and community activist. NOAH-O’s music explores his identity as a Filipino American and uses Hip-Hop to tell stories of perseverance, blending art and purpose.

Intalek: An active representative of the Filipino American community in Hampton Roads, Intalek is a creative entrepreneur and Hip-Hop artist. He is immersed in and influenced by the dynamic musical landscape of Virginia and the state’s rich musical heritage.

Cymandye Russell: A music industry veteran and lifelong creative, her love for arts, music, and culture is influenced by her Thai and African American heritage.

00:00 Welcome / Intros

3:96 Cymandye Russell Family Origins

4:52 Intalek Family Origins

5:54 NOAH-O Family Origins

9:30 How did you fall in love with Hip-Hop music and culture?

17:29 Navigating cultures with mixed race; how does Asian heritage show up in your life, in your Hip-Hop?

33:23 A discussion on 'Culture Vultures"

46:36 Talking about experiences, obstacles, and opportunities coming up in Virginia Hip-Hop scene; MTV My Block story

🎥 @thsunroom 

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