Local talent brings hip-hop to Jinx

One of Savannah's largest musical influences stems from the immersive local hip-hop scene. For years, many talented young MCs, b-boys and DJs have emerged from the area trying to make names for themselves with a passion for music and a love for commradery.

The Jinx, a popular downtown bar and music venue, helps bring the local hip-hop scene to life every Tuesday night. The venue hosts a weekly event attended by many of these artists, their fans and people interested in learning more about the music. The doors open to these lively events at 10 p.m.

"Hip-hop night started over six years ago," said Basik Lee MC and Hip-Hop Night host. "Back then it was hosted by two DJs, Selvis and Dfrost. Now I have been the host for close to six years."

Benefited by the presence of invigorating talent, the Jinx has been home to many hip-hop events. Anyone interested will find these nights are filled with the sharing of the best hip-hop around. There are live performances as well as a barrage of battles between sound and styles. These shows pit emcees, producers and DJs against each other in a fun and well-spirited showcase of skills.

Attendees can also enjoy the performances of b-boys, or break dancers, tearing up the dance floor.

Some of the live performances include local DJs and groups such as DJ Valis, KidSyc, T-Money, AMI and Dope Sandwich.

Despite these intense performances and battles, the popularity of hip-hop night has been waning.

"The turnout is good, we see 60 to 100 people every Tuesday night, but when hip-hop night started it was very popular. The Jinx was packed," Lee said.

Rapper and Atlanta native KidSyc said, "I feel like the local scene is in need of rejuvenation."

However, neither the local musicians nor the bar has given up.

"Hip-hop night at the Jinx plays an integral role for the new MC's in our community.," KidSyc said.

"My first showcase at the Jinx was my biggest confirmation. I had always dreamed of rapping onstage in front of a crowd, and when it finally happened, it was the same scene from my dreams."

Now he hopes to perform regularly at the Jinx in a once-a-month special feature with his group KidSyc@Brandywine.

Artists like KidSyc and Basik Lee are motivated not only by music, but by Savannah's scene and culture. The artists thrive on their rhymes and lyrical flow, as well as the audience feedback.