A Prayer for Hiphop - Summer Gospel Rap Concert starting in NY

In the wake of former WFAN radio and MSNBC talk-show host Don Imus’ derogatory and racially charged comments, many have wondered why Hip Hop artists, radio stations and record labels have not been scrutinized and castigated as Imus has been. Although many may agree with the decision to terminate Imus’ talk-show, there is a growing outrage against the Hip Hop industry for promoting lyrics that are heavily laced with disrespectful, misogynistic and degrading comments about women.

For years there has been a call to action for more music with a positive message; an alternative. “A Prayer 4 Hip Hop” is that alternative.

“At VIBE we are seeking ways to positively impact the communities we serve. This event will have a positive impact on our young people through the message being conveyed by the artists and through the initiative to educate our community about the importance of HIV testing” says Leonard E. Burnett, Jr., Vice President and Group Publisher of VIBE.

Joining the tour is Test For Life, providing free HIV/AIDS testing on site for audience members. “HIV is spreading in our community at an unprecedented rate. We need to educate people about the importance of getting tested and prevent the spread of this disease. I applaud these young artists for being a part of this very important initiative,” says Gary Puckerin, Chairman of the National Minority Quality Forum.

Although Hip Hop music is pervasive across the airwaves, Gospel Rap receives little to no radio airplay. Despite the lack of mainstream attention, this powerful and life transforming art form has a large and loyal underground following.

“It is important for us to show the world that the Hip Hop culture is vast and that there are many artists that love Hip Hop and are dedicated to positively impacting the lives of their audience,” says Gospel Rapper J.A.Z. He grew up in Harlem, among the same streets of many of today’s well-known rappers. Fortunately, J.A.Z. was able to find a way out of the turmoil through his relationship with God. J.A.Z., like most mainstream rappers, writes about his real life experiences, only in J.A.Z.’s case the ending is different. The choices he makes in his life greatly influence his audience who are struggling with the same crossroads that he faces. “It comes down to what you decide is cool and what you think is corny. I think that guns, sex and drugs are corny and that being a righteous person is cool.”

For more information about “Prayer 4 Hip-Hop” or to purchase tickets please visit: www.prayerforhiphop.com or myspace.com/aprayer4hiphop.