On September 5th, The Midway will transform into a stage for one of hip-hop’s most refreshing voices: Kota the Friend. Straight out of Brooklyn, Kota has built a career by marching to the beat of his own drum—and trumpet. From his early start in public school music programs to rejecting major label deals for the sake of creative freedom, he has made independence his anthem.
His catalog speaks for itself: acclaimed projects like FOTO and EVERYTHING, alongside the beloved Lyrics to GO series, now five volumes deep, have cemented him as a true craftsman of soulful, reflective hip-hop. Known for his introspective storytelling, smooth production, and DIY approach, he films his own videos, records at home, and releases on his own terms, Kota represents the modern blueprint for artistry without compromise. His music carries a warmth and honesty that resonates with fans across the globe, proving you don’t need the machine to make timeless art.
AFTERTHOUGHT
Afterthought is a San Francisco based rapper, producer, and songwriter who blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and soul into a sound that’s as dynamic as it is deeply rooted. His music is built on the principle of Family First, a theme shaped by his own journey through the foster care and adoption systems, and one that shines through every lyric, collaboration, and live performance.
LIL MC
lilmcmusic.com • Facebook • Instagram
LiL MC is a Bay Area battle rap champion, recording artist, Hip Hop Educator, Podcaster, Comic book creator, entrepreneur, and Founder of Ratchet and Woke inc.
UNLEARN THE WORLD
unlearntheworld.com • Facebook • Instagram
As an Emcee, Poet, Actor and Activist, UnLearn takes his unique life story as a means to explore the human condition of the inner city, while he chronicles the emotions, triumphs and tragedies that make up the Urban American experience.
Tickets are on sale now, don’t miss your chance to be part of an unforgettable night with one of the most inspiring independent voices in music today.
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