1. Common History (Foundations/Respects) - to teach the history of Hip Hop because Hip Hop without a history is a fad and a surface level stereotype for those who don't really care. And when you don't care, the culture suffers lack of progression from becoming what it could be. History is also important because it introduces to outsiders and new hiphoppers what the culture really is about. History provides a building ground (foundation) where we can progress from, not repeat, and be inspired. What history tells us again and again is that we are all one people. (Some advice: Hip Hop has become a world view perspective (urban mindset). If you haven't seen what Hip Hop is like in other countries, you should really take a look, because the cross cultural aspects of Hip Hop are the true essence of the art form. You never know you have till you're taken out of it - Hip Hop is bigger than you think.)

Jesus answered, "Even if I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is valid, for I know where I came from and where I am going. But you have no idea where I come from or where I am going. John 8:14 (NIV)

"According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it. For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ... " 1 Corinthians 3:10-11 (NASB)

2. Connections (Fellowship) - The first thing anyone asks when they attend an event, "is there someone else that I can relate with here?" That's why we have basic elements (dj, emcee, breaking, writing), to serve general interests so that even in diversity we can be unified. A program or concert can never really love the individual, but you can. You could throw all the free promo and put together the greatest performances and the audience still won't retain respect or keep coming back (you aren't the only venue in town, if you're based on performances you'll be outed next time someone has a "better show"). It's the people there already at the event who respect whom make them care back. Get that first, and all those special programs and guest performances don't even have to be there to put on the event! Now that's the Session.

There's another thing that is attractive about Sessions, and that's harmony. When people see people who don't have beef with each other, but actually doing things in accordance with each other, that's peace, something the whole world looks for. So forget all the daily grind and politics of this world, Hip Hop was created for having fun and reach for something higher than all the world's standards.

"It is not good for the man to be alone." Genesis 2:18

"Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Ephesians 4:3 (NIV)

3. Clinics (Maturity) - The Session is about building skill with like-minded individuals. Hip Hop was NEVER meant to be alone and exclusive. If you look at Hip Hop's history, its about taking a bit there and here and mixing it up. And that's what Sessions do, they bring unlikely people together under one common theme (or break beat). Progression can take place far better among mentors and passionate people and when diversity is given a chance to mix for a common head.

Then we will no longer be infants... Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. Ephesians 4:14-16 (NIV)

4. Contribution by Performances/Showcases/Mentorship (Ministry) - Test what you got and teach others, learn by doing. The moment you stop learning is the moment you stop leading. This day in age, role models and mentors are few, which is dangerous for the new generation of hiphop. We got to stop marketing (commercialism of the art form) and start modeling truth.

Each man's work will become evident...and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work. If any man's work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. 1 Corinthians 3:14 (NASB)

"Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning." Proverbs 9:9

5. Communication/Promotion of Hope (Evangelism) - This is a unique purpose of a Session. Sessions are a living, breathing community of talent that wants to work in their passions and be heard. If it's not growing, then it's not living because living things always grow.

It doesn't have to grow just within a venue, but it has to keep connected weather outside or within to stay healthy. The community wants to be known and tested for its skills, so the Session should help network and give opportunities to do positive things in their local community or even more. A lot of people have a path to escape poverty, unhealthy behaviors, and spiritual emptiness, but don't know it! People need to hear they're needed and gifted for a unique purpose, for something bigger than themselves.

Another part of promotion is, of course, the artists you bring, vendors you support and support you, and lifestyle perspective you present on a personal level. Basically, if you know what's good and truth, why would you sit still? Tell it to the world!

"...and you will be my witnesses... to the ends of the earth" Acts 8:1

Only registered users can write comments.
Please login or register.

Powered by AkoComment 2.0!