On July 31, the Philadelphia Chapter of the Recording Academy hosted its inaugural Block Party at Punchline Philly to celebrate its members and 30 years of supporting the city’s rich music scene.
Summer block parties have been integral to Philadelphia’s social culture for generations. With a vibrant mix of dancing, music, good people, and food, nobody throws a block party like Philadelphians. Given this tradition, it made perfect sense for the Philadelphia Chapter to host their Block Party at one of the city's best comedy clubs.
Celebrating the Philly Chapter’s 30th anniversary, the Block Party gathered some of the brightest lights in Philadelphia’s music scene, including rapper and singer Tierra Whack, her official DJ, DJ KillSing, and more. With the festivities opening at 4 PM, attendees were treated to a four-hour event complete with live performances, DJ sets, industry talks, and opportunities to network with fellow Chapter members.
"30 years is an incredible milestone!" said Philadelphia Chapter Executive Director Ramón Jones. "The Philadelphia Chapter has grown tremendously since 1994 and we’re so grateful to all our amazing members throughout Pennsylvania, Delaware, and South Jersey. This first-ever Block Party was the perfect opportunity to celebrate Philly-style with everyone in our creative community who has contributed to the greatness of our Chapter, and the Recording Academy as a whole!"
After opening remarks attendees enjoyed an intimate fireside chat with Chapter Member and GRAMMY-nominated rapper and singer Tierra Whack, sponsored by the Recording Academy's Songwriters & Composers Wing. Whack, who rose to fame as a prodigious talent in Philly’s underground hip-hop scene, discussed her musical journey and her latest album, World Wide Whack, which addresses her mental health struggles. Moderated by Philly journalist, Kerrivah "Kerri" Heard, the chat was warm, funny, and delightfully insightful.
“Music is my form of expression,” Whack said. “It’s the way I escape. For a while I was only making depressing music because I was going through a lot.”
The chemistry between Whack and Heard was evident as their conversation touched on the specifics of Whack’s early career and the process behind her latest project. Whack revealed that the journey of writing the album dovetailed with her own painful personal struggles with fame and depression.
Read more: 5 Women Essential To Rap: Cardi B, Lil' Kim, MC Lyte, Sylvia Robinson & Tierra Whack
Working her issues out through the music, Whack emphasized the importance of truthfulness and vulnerability in an artist’s creative process. When asked for advice on navigating an industry that can limit an artist's creativity, Whack offered a simple yet profound response. \
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“Always tell the truth no matter the circumstance.” Whack said. “There’s been times when I wanted to compromise, but I sleep better at night just being myself.”\
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On the outdoor patio, academy members and guests enjoyed a smooth and soulful set from DJ KillSing, who played R&B classics like Aaliyah’s “Rock The Boat” and Bobby Valentino’s “Slow Down.” Following KillSing’s set, Trumpet Chics opened procession-style, performing a horn-heavy medley of Beyoncé hits while marching to the outdoor stage. The Camden-based youth ensemble electrified the crowd with renditions of “Crazy In Love,” “Deja Vu,” and other beloved classics.
Philly Chapter member Matthew Whitaker performed to highlight Disability Pride Month, RAMPD (Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities) and the launch of RAA+D (Disability + Accessibility), the Recording Academy's new member resource group aimed at supporting artists, creators and professionals with disabilities and advancing their needs and initiatives, which was unveiled during the Block Party.
Philadelphia Chapter President Marcus "Rated Art" Bryant introduced more live performances, including Kenya Vaun’s fiery and soulful set, followed by jazz pianist Mathew Whitaker. The Philadelphia Chapter of the Recording Academy's inaugural block party was a vibrant celebration of the power and vitality of Philadelphia's music scene.