News: Skaters and hip-hop
The connection between the skateboard and hip-hop community has long been one of obvious, but often overlooked, similarities. Both groups rock baggy clothes, love graffiti style art and display street swagger.In recent months, two rappers made the connection more prominent. Rapper Lupe Fiasco's hit "Kick Push" is a love story about two skateboarders. Rapper/producer Pharrell Williams, also a skateboarder, refers to himself as his alter ego Skateboard P on his new album, "In My Mind." But the connection isn't new. Comedian Dave Chappelle has long been an avid skateboarder.
At Grayson SkatePark off Wendover Road on Saturday, Charlotte's skateboard and hip-hop communities came together at the first of hopefully many BattleSlamJams. Local hip-hop enthusiast Donnell Stines organized the event. Poet Bluz hosted the skateboard and breakdance competitions, along with dance exhibitions and rap performances.
It was beyond hot, but several dozen people skated, danced and performed. Even more stood along the sidelines watching. Some of the city's best breakdancers, including Paul Quaranta from the Bobcat Breakers, and Sid, who's been in several different crews, performed. Both travel to dance so it was good to see them back in Charlotte supporting local events as well.
I ran into folks from the hip-hop community and met people in the skateboard community, which I didn't realize was so large. It ranges from young teens to older adults. One local guy is trying to get into the Guinness Book of World Records by performing some kind of stunt. I'll keep you posted as I get more details.
Although there wasn't a ton of crossover between the skateboarders doing breakdancing and hip-hop dancing or vice-versa, both groups supported the other.
Grayson SkatePark is at the Naomi Drenan Recreation Center near the Home Depot off Wendover Road. For breakdancers, stop by the Breakfast Club uptown for "Who Got Served?" It's a breakdance, along with pop and lock competition, and party. Next one is Sept. 3.
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