As The Rock Steady 26th Anniversary celebration kicks off in New York on July 24th, this years event will feature themes that weren’t present in past anniversary celebrations.
"When we first started performing downtown we were performing in places like Danceteria and Rochies and all these places that had people that were into rock," long-time RSC member Crazy Legs told AllHipHop.com.
"It’s like a whole different scene and a way of dressing. You had the punk rockers that were down and right now you have a scene that’s not a culture class but an acceptance of each other and a blending culture."
The three day celebration features a benefit basketball game, a film festival, an MC battle and the introduction of the first fashion show ever held at the celebration, the "Punk Rock Rap Fashion Show."
"We need to show all the elements when it comes to the rap scene in New York," Crazy Legs continued. "If we dont support it, who is? We gonna wait for someone else to recognize what else is dope in New York. Im not down with that sh*t."
The celebration will also feature a free outdoor concert on July 26, at New York’s Pier 54.
Performers on the bill for the free concert include M.O.P., Freddie Foxxx, Canibus, Non-Phixion, Evil D, Tony Touch, Jedi Mind Tricks, Soul Purpose, Tony Touch and Q-Unique.
"You dont really get that representation for the people that appreciate those artists on the radio," Crazy Legs said of the selection of rappers. "I feel that they have their own following. I’de rather just support the scene over and underground."
Here is a full listing of events:
July 24th Thursday Event: Benefit Basketball Game Time: 11:00AM – 3:00PM
Location: The Cage. 6th Avenue on the corner of 4th Street.
Event: End Of The Weak MC Challenge
Time: 9:00PM -2:00AM
Location: S.O.B’s, 204 Varick Street at West Houston.
Directions 212.243.4940 or www.sobs.com
July 25th Friday
Event: H20 Film Festival
Time: 1:00PM – 5:00PM
Location: 410 West 16th Street. Between 9th & 10th Ave.
Directions: 212.242.6555
Event: Brisk Flava Styles b-boy/girl Battle. 2 on 2 invitational.
"Punk Rock Rap Fashion Show".
The Rock Steady Crew 26th Anniversary marks the introduction of its first
ever fashion show titled "Punk Rock Rap". This is an event that recognizes
the fusion of street and skate culture and celebrates their unity under the
banner of hip-hop.
Highly acclaimed set designer and graffiti artist, Ernie Vales, has designed
a stage that visually conveys and represents authentic hip-hop style and
street flavor. Models will include B-boy/girls and street skaters.
Time: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: The Manhattan Center. 311 West 34th Street between 8th & 9th Ave.
July 26th Saturday
Event: Out door Concert
Time: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location Pier 54. 14th Street on the Westside Highway. NYC, NY
July 27th Sunday
Event: Concert B-boy/girl Battle finals
Time: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Manhattan Center, 311 West 34th Street between 8th & 9th Ave.