Celebrating Hip-Hop’s Legacy During Black History Month

On Saturday, March 1, 2025, the Newark Public Library will host The Boom Bap Archive: Drum Machines and Hip-Hop, a dynamic event that wraps up the library’s 2025 Black History Celebration. Just two city blocks from Harrison, NJ, across the Bridge Street Bridge, this exciting program invites hip-hop fans and music enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a thought-provoking discussion and electrifying live performances.

The event kicks off at 1 p.m. with a reception, followed by the program at 2 p.m., which will delve into the evolution of hip-hop, its enduring legacy, and the drum machines that have shaped its sound. Moderated by Jamara Wakefield, the panel features renowned producers K-Def, Internal Quest, JWords, and Geng PTP. These influential figures will explore how drum machines helped expand the sonic history of hip-hop, influencing not only the genre’s trajectory but also the broader landscape of music production.

Additional information on the panelists:

• K-Def, a veteran New Jersey-based producer and DJ, is known for his iconic work with artists like Ghostface Killah and Craig Mack. K-Def’s early acclaim stemmed from his collaboration with Marley Marl on Here Comes The Lords by Lords of the Underground, including hits like "Funky Child" and "Chief Rocka."
• Internal Quest, an audio engineer, music producer, and youth mentor, whose unique “Hip-Hop: With a little innovation” style emerged from his roots in Newark’s local beat battles and his work with Jersey Sound Lab Recordings.
• JWords, a producer and composer breaking new ground in black electronic and hip-hop music, fusing both genres with powerful live performances, including her work on ve·loc·i·ty with H31R and her production for rapper Nappy Nina.
• Geng PTP, is a poet, producer, DJ, educator, and audio engineer based in Queens, NY. With over three decades of participation in underground music communities, Geng brings a multimedia perspective to the discussion, particularly through his projects like KING VISION ULTRA and his involvement with the visionary collective PTP.

Following the panel discussion, attendees can enjoy a live beat set, where emerging producers will push the boundaries of sound, showcasing the latest in hip-hop production. This electrifying performance is set to highlight the innovation and creativity that continue to define the genre.

This event is a must-attend for anyone interested in the evolution of hip-hop, its cultural significance, and the drum machines that shaped its sound. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the genre, The Boom Bap Archive offers a chance to engage with some of the industry’s most innovative voices.

For those traveling from Harrison, NJ, the Newark Public Library is easily accessible—just a short walk across the Bridge Street Bridge. There is also Free Parking in the Essex County Parking garage with registration. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with hip-hop’s legacy and hear firsthand from the artists who helped build it.

Registration for the event is required. Register here to secure your spot and be part of this exciting celebration of hip-hop culture.

Event Details:

• Reception: 1:00 p.m.
• Program: 2:00 p.m.
• Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
• Location: Newark Public Library, 5 Washington St, Newark, NJ

Come for the history, stay for the beats! Come early and weather permitting explore the Harriet Tubman Square (formerly the George Washington Park) across the street from the Newark Public Library.

Photos Courtesy of Newark Public Library.

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