The South Got Something to Say” aimed to provide a platform for Southern creators, the unsung heroes of hip-hop who have influenced the genre from intimate settings to grand stages.
The choice of the South Dallas Cultural Center as the venue was intentional.
Since its inception in 1997 under the leadership of acclaimed artist and activist Vicki Meek—affectionately known as “Mama V”—the center has been a nurturing ground for countless artists.
Talents like Erykah Badu and Carmen Rodgers have walked its halls, and many artists have found their creative voices there.
Before the panel discussions began, the evening opened with a heartfelt tribute to Vicki Meek, acknowledging her role in fostering an environment where such cultural conversations could flourish.
As attendees arrived, they experienced an immersive visual installation curated by educator and artist Jerry Hawkins M. Ed.
The lobby was transformed into a timeline showcasing the history of hip-hop, featuring original magazine covers from The Source, VIBE, and XXL, alongside iconic albums from legends like Outkast and Dr. Dre.
Hawkins’ exhibition aimed to preserve not just the music, but the culture and stories behind it.
The event kicked off with live performances from three local artists, highlighting the rich talent emerging from Dallas.
Billy White, a rapper from West Dallas, opened the night with his lyrical prowess, followed by Hanani, whose R&B-infused songs resonated deeply, especially with his Arlington representation.
Qiyah Abdul concluded the performances, captivating the audience with her heartfelt narratives about personal experiences intertwined with hip-hop.
Each performance was a powerful reminder of Dallas’ budding talent, showcasing the next generation of potential stars.
The evening reached a high-energy pinnacle when Boogie Land, a local dance group, took the stage.
Under the guidance of a choreographer from Booker T. Washington High School, they combined energetic performances with an educational breakdown of hip-hop dance origins.
Highlighting local styles such as the “South Dallas Swag” and the “Dougie,” the dancers engaged the audience, inviting them to participate and connect with the cultural roots of the movements.
Following this vibrant display, the main event commenced, featuring two Dallas icons in an insightful discussion about music and cultural impact.
The D.O.C., a hip-hop pioneer and ghostwriter for N.W.A., engaged in conversation with Grammy-winning producer LilJuMadeDaBeat, known for his work on Beyoncé’s Renaissance album and collaborations with Megan Thee Stallion.
Guided by prompts, they reflected on their early influences in music, career beginnings, and transformative moments that shaped their artistic journeys.
The D.O.C. recounted how he grew up listening to influential soul artists like The O’Jays and The Whispers, whose sounds informed his later contributions to hip-hop.
In contrast, LilJu spoke about being inspired by Maxwell and shared how Michael Jackson’s Invincible album drove him to deeply explore music.
While their musical influences differed, both agreed on the powerful role Black music played in their development as artists and leaders.
The conversation soon shifted to the perceived lack of recognition for Dallas in the broader music scene compared to cities like Houston and Atlanta.
LilJu boldly stated, “Half the stuff you see on TikTok now? We were doing that in Dallas back in 2008.”
In response, D.O.C. urged the audience and the Dallas community to demand more representation from local radio stations, illustrating how regional identities need to be amplified to foster cultural recognition.
He emphasized, “In L.A., you’re gonna hear 2Pac every day. In New York, it’s Biggie or Mary J. every day. If y’all want to hear Badu every day on Dallas radio—you have to demand it. Make them do the work.”
This theme of cultural ownership resonated throughout the evening.
The D.O.C. discussed his initiative, Dream Academy, aiming to provide creative education to local youth, including two campuses in Oak Cliff and Frisco.
He also hinted at an unreleased documentary about hip-hop that seeks to find a fair partnership rather than exploitation.
He shared the essential elements needed to create impactful music, stressing the importance of possessing a unique voice and developing distinctive sound.
LilJu, sharing his own educational journey, announced a new nonprofit initiative he and Cimajie Best are launching to support youth in pursuing creative arts.
Emphasizing the role of education and support systems in the creative process, he reflected on his own experiences, underlining the importance of having foundational support.
One of the evening’s most touching moments came when D.O.C. expressed sincere admiration for LilJu’s work, visibly moving the younger artist.
The connection between the two exemplified the respect and bond cultivated over their shared journeys in music.
As the event opened up for questions, audience members eagerly participated, engaging with both artists on various topics from artistry to industry dynamics.
Even after extensive dialogue, the audience lingered, reluctant to see the night end.
Wrapping up the evening, D.O.C. articulated his dedication to the community: “We need more conversations like these. I’m always gonna show up for my people. If it’s for hip-hop and for the culture, then I will be there.”
Ultimately, this event transcended typical panel discussions.
It emerged as a blueprint for cultural engagement, a call to action for the Dallas community.
With seeds of inspiration and collaboration sown during the event, the onus now lies with the local artists and fans to nurture this potential.
The South has long had significant stories to tell; perhaps, for the first time, the world is beginning to listen.
image source from：dallasweekly
