18/05/2026
I’m still processing everything from this weekend. I want to be completely transparent with you all about my experience performing at the international hip-hop festival. On one hand, my heart is so full. I am incredibly proud to have shared a lineup with such visionary artists, and to connect with the designers, workshop leaders, and, most importantly, the people who came out. The energy of the community was beautiful, raw, and undeniable. ✊✨
But behind the scenes, it was a deeply sad and discouraging reality. To be honest, it was one of the worst organizational experiences of my career. From the moment I arrived, I was met with chaos. Security didn’t even know I was coming. My 6:00 PM slot was pushed back until 6:30. Through the entire set, I wasn’t even offered a bottle of water.
What was most hurtful was the disrespect from the organization staff. They were rude, they screamed at me, and they actually touched my equipment and interfered with the volume while I was playing. It felt unprofessional, demeaning, and, sadly, some of the treatment felt distinctly prejudiced. It is truly heartbreaking to still be facing this type of behavior and lack of respect in 2026.
I love this culture, and I am proud of what we built this weekend, but we have to expect better. Artists and attendees deserve to be treated with dignity. 💔
InternationalHipHop Community GratefulButDisappointed 2026