By: Arlene Culpepper
In 2011, The Heat Magazine featured a prolific artist who goes by the name of “Koan”.
Koan is one of those talented prodigies who, after just one listen, you just know is headed to the top of his game. In addition to endless talent, Koan is one of those artists who takes time to learn all about his industry. Throughout that journey, he’s learned that networking goes hand in hand with success. That’s one reason he created the “Nuthin But Heat Summer Jam”, set to take place Saturday, June 30, 2012 at what is likely New Orleans’ most authentic venues, Tipitina’s Uptown.
We caught up with Koan to get more information on what he and his team, Daily Bread Productions, are putting together for the show. Here’s what he had to say:
THE HEAT MAGAZINE: Tipitina’s is a legendary venue. What made it the perfect venue for this particular show?
KOAN: Tip’s is world renowned for putting on spectacular events in connection with all genres of music except Hip-Hop, so the “Nuthin But Heat” summer jam was created to fill that void. We would like to build a long lasting relationship with Tipitina’s and their outstanding staff, by putting on an event that shines a positive light on the Hip-Hop culture, its events, the music, and underground artists that are keeping it alive. If I have my way, this event will grow into an annually produced event that underground Hip-Hop artists from all over will want to be a part of.
THE HEAT MAGAZINE: What new projects are you currently working on?
KOAN: I am currently completing my first mix-tape, something I will seldom record throughout my career, titled “Nuff Respect Due”, which is dedicated to paying tribute to the Hip-Hop artists of the late 80’s and all of the 90’s, and the songs by them that have influenced my career as a Hip-Hop emcee. I am also working on my sophomore LP in which you will experience a completely different side of Koan.
THE HEAT MAGAZINE: What is Daily Bread Productions?
KOAN: Daily Bread Productions is a New Orleans based Music Production/Record Company spearheaded by a small group of industry professionals focusing on a common goal of creating, and preserving quality music within the Hip-Hop culture. The president of the company, Erin Brazley, works diligently to keep the company running like a well oiled machine, and I am currently the featured artist on the label, but also the CEO (LAUGHS). I like saying that!
THE HEAT MAGAZINE: Where did you get the idea for the show?
KOAN: Erin Brazley came up with a show concept that would shine the light on talented underground Hip-Hop artists from the Louisiana region by bringing them together under one roof in New Orleans to promote, and showcase their talents and music. When it was brought to my attention, I thought, “What better place to have a show like this than New Orleans own legendary Tipitina’s”? We decided that this event would be a great opportunity for me to kick off my “Alliance” tour, of which is slated to span across the country indefinitely, and to promote my upcoming mix-tape, titled “Nuff Respect Due”.
THE HEAT MAGAZINE: Tell us what we can expect to see from Koan and his guests?
KOAN: Expect to see electrifying performances, and hear quality Hip-Hop music that touches your soul – something quite similar to the feeling you get when you hear that timeless joint from your favorite artist. My current supporters can also expect to witness a side of Koan they have yet to see.
