Roots and Branches

Coldshowda & Pep Love "Easy To Find" (Music Video)

2012-01-29T18:54:00.000-08:00

Long-awaited visuals from the "Unseen Supreme" project. "Easy To Find" was filmed by OG Hieroglyphics crew member Casual and edited by Unjust (who also produced the beat). You can download the entire project at http://damansion.bandcamp.com

DJ BASTA - Nueva Funk (Mix)

2012-01-06T20:28:00.000-08:00

A new mix for the new year. "Nueva Funk" is a selection of original funk and soul songs recorded between 2000-2011. Listen/download the project over at Mixcrate.com

TNT (Trials N Tribulations) Mixtape

2012-01-06T20:21:00.000-08:00

My students from Alternatives in Action just released a mixtape of what they have been producing during my after school sound recording studio class. Lots of instrumentals, a handful of songs and a couple mini-mixes. Download the project at tntmixtape.bandcamp.com

See more of what my students have been working on over at their blogs

soundrecording.tumblr.com

aiavideopro.tumblr.com

communitymedia.tumblr.com

In the Studio with Keith Magruder (Bakers's Son)

2012-01-06T20:03:00.000-08:00

Keith Magruder has been doing a ton of graphic design and live art for Roots & Branches over the past few years but is also constantly occupied other projects including his work with Creative Session and the upcoming release of his Baker's Son line. I caught some photos of him while he was screen printing some samples pieces for me, just in time for the holidays. Check out more of Keith's work at keithmagruderstudio.com

Listening Session (Photos)

2012-01-06T18:28:00.000-08:00

DJ BASTA

DJ Eternal & Thriftworks

Insightful & B. Lewis

DJ Stevie D

On November 20th 2011 a bunch of incredible local artists came out to celebrate my birthday at Oasis in Oakland. The day started off rainy but we warmed it up with turntables, drum machines and Oasis' boomin system.

(Gonna get caught up over the next few days, clearly the blog needs some updates...)

Listening Session Artist Profiles: Opio (Video)

2011-11-20T01:14:00.001-08:00

The fourth in a series of promo videos for the Listening Session event at Oasis (135 12th St. Oakland) on November 20, 2011 from 3pm-midnight. A day of art, music and food.

Music by Opio & Equipto, avaialble at redxtapes.bandcamp.com

Produced by Matthew Suggett
with support from DA Studio.

Listening Session Artist Profiles: DJ BASTA (Video)

2011-11-18T18:02:00.001-08:00

The third in a series of promo videos for the Listening Session event at Oasis (135 12th St. Oakland) on November 20, 2011 from 3pm-midnight. A day of art, music and food.

Music by Lee Fields from the "Soundtrack in my Head" mix by DJ BASTA, available at mixcrate.com/djbasta

Produced by Matthew Suggett
with support from DA Studio.

Listening Session Artist Profiles: Keith Magruder (Video)

2011-11-17T22:47:00.001-08:00

The second in a series of promo videos for the Listening Session event at Oasis (135 12th St. Oakland) on November 20, 2011 from 3pm-midnight. A day of art, music and food.

Music by Baker's Son. keithmagruderstudio.com

Produced by Matthew Suggett
with support from DA Studio.

Listening Session Artist Profiles: Coldshowda (Video)

2011-11-14T18:28:00.000-08:00

The first in a series of promo videos for the Listening Session event at Oasis (135 12th St. Oakland) on November 20, 2011 from 3pm-midnight. A day of art, music and food.

Music by Coldshowda & DJ BASTA, available at damansion.bandcamp.com.

Produced by Matthew Suggett
with support from DA Studio.

Listening Session (Event)

2011-11-02T22:29:00.000-07:00

Sunday, November 20 3pm-12am

Oasis Restaurant & Bar
135 12th Street
Oakland, CA

Fresh daytime event in Oakland with art, music and food

Featuring...

DJ's, live beats and hip hop performances (see schedule below)

Live art with Keith Magruder and the Farmers Block resident artists

Multimedia support from DA Studio

Le'Roy Vegan Soul Food Brunch

FREE

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Schedule:

3PM Stevie D

4PM Miz Spice

445 5-ill

5PM DJ Eternal

6PM Beat Showcase w/ B. Lewis, Insightful, Thriftworks & friends

7PM DJ BASTA

830 Chosen Few (plus beat set by Unjust)

915 Dion Decibels

1015 Sabac Red

1030 DJ Riddim

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

More info:
rootsandbranchescrew.org
keithmagruderstudio.com
thefarmersblock.tumblr.com
dabayarea.com
djstevied.com
mixcrate.com/itsDJeternal
blewis.bandcamp.com
insightful.bandcamp.com
jatlas.bandcamp.com
damansion.bandcamp.com
wearechosenfew.com
mixcrate.com/diondecibels
sabacred.com

KRS-One @ BASE High School (Video)

2011-11-02T22:23:00.000-07:00

To kick of the after school program I teach for, we brought out KRS-One to speak to the students and do a workshop. Also featured are OG pop locker Lonnie “Poptart” Green and artist/educator Jahi.Video produced by the students in my after school video class.

Starting to get some blog support for Unseen Supreme

2011-09-19T10:00:00.000-07:00

This Is Real Music put us in rotation with a bunch of heavyweights. You can "like" the project and help us improve our already decent rating...

Thizzler came thru with the local love...

If you don't already have the project please DOWNLOAD, comment and share. UNSEEN SUPREME!

After School Program Kick Off at BASE with KRS-One

2011-09-18T20:39:00.000-07:00

To kick of our after school programs at BASE high school we brought out an incredible group of artist/educators to speak to the students and do a workshop.

OG pop locker Lonnie “Poptart” Green opened up our after school rally with a presentation about dance styles that originated in the Bay Area including Boogaloo, Roboting and Strutting.

KRS-One speaking to the youth at BASE.

Freestyle cypher with KRS-One in the studio at BASE.

KRS-One brought out 9 Sound Recording Studio (SRS) students on stage to continue the cypher from earlier that day.

One of my incredible students, Trust rockin on stage with KRS-One at the Avalon in Santa Clara.

Unseen Supreme coverage from creativesession.us

2011-08-29T18:58:00.000-07:00

Photo by Paul Vu

Video by Hoang Nguyen

The good folks from Creative Session just posted some behind the scenes photos and video from us working on "Unseen Supreme." Check them out at creativesession.us

And if you haven't already download Unseen Supreme at damansion.bandcamp.com

New Music: Coldshowda & DJ BASTA "Unseen Supreme" (Hieroglyphics Imperium) (Mixtape)

2011-08-21T23:31:00.000-07:00

"Doomsday economy, launching my bid properly. Life marketing, multimedia artists for the new audience, don’t even like rap, enjoying this.”

– Coldshowda

For “Unseen Supreme” Coldshowda (of Chosen Few), a veteran MC from Ohio came together with Bay Area native DJ BASTA, to craft a project that mixed raw elements of funk, jazz, electronic and hip hop with polished lyrics. What started with sharing beats (from producers like Unjust, Ken Chronicles, 14KT, Dibiase, Onra, J Dilla and more) to find musical common ground turned into an initial series of bedroom recording sessions. After a couple of months of weekly recording, the two started a monthly event at a local San Francisco club, as a launch pad for new music coming out of their community and from likeminded artists. “Unseen Supreme” is a metaphor for inspiration or creative force, being found in the most unlikely places.

Unseen Supreme by Coldshowda & DJ BASTA

Download, enjoy and spread the word.

Thanks for the support!

Bass N' BBQ

2011-07-27T20:17:00.000-07:00

Roots & Branches is collaborating with Digital Alchemy Studio for a daytime block party. Come enjoy the sun and tour the brand new DA Studio. Saturday July 30th @ 1-7PM

Featuring Championship BBQ By:
The Curious Case of Bob’s BBQ

Stocked bar to quench your thirst!

Music n’ Bass By:
DJ Vinroc (Two time world champion DJ)
Roots & Branches
DJ Eternal
Thiriftworks
B. Lewis
Live Performance of D.Willz Hit MTV Single “Watermelon”
More to come!

Other Activities:
Free Photo booth
Free Basketball
Live Silkscreening
Covered lounge areas to chill

When:
Saturday July 30th @ 1PM

Where:
DaStudio Parking Lot
5834 Vallejo St.
Emeryville, CA 94608

Details:
•Party entry is FREE, entry only with RSVP
(at www.bassnbbq.com)
•Party starts at 1PM and wraps at sundown
•BBQ is $5 a plate and includes a drink
•All drinks are $1

For more info contact
basta@bassnbbq.com

"Unseen Supreme" Coming Soon!

2011-07-14T17:29:00.000-07:00

Just got a limited run of 100 "Unseen Supreme" CDs pressed up with original artwork by Keith Magruder (as well as vinyl stickers). We will be releasing the whole project online before the end of the month. If you haven't heard the 4 tracks we leaked or seen the 2 videos, the links are below.

Songs:
Easy To Find
Get Your Issue
Unseen Supreme
Work

Videos:
Works In Progress
The Code

Coldshowda & DJ BASTA "Work" (New Single)

2011-07-05T18:09:00.000-07:00

Work by DaMansion
Here goes the last leak from Coldshowda & DJ BASTA's "Unseen Supreme" project dropping later this month. Beat by Jules. Steady putting in work!

Coldshowda & DJ BASTA - The Code (Video)

2011-06-27T18:27:00.000-07:00

With "The Code" Coldshowda & DJ BASTA pay homage to the tradition of creating something out of nothing. Flea market funk!

Filmed by Unjust
Edited by BASTA

Coldshowda & DJ BASTA "Unseen Supreme" (New Single)

2011-06-20T16:10:00.000-07:00

Unseen Supreme by DaMansion
Some fresh music to listen to on this beautiful, hot day. The title track from Coldshowda & DJ BASTA's forthcoming Unseen Supreme project. Beat by M-Phazes. Get the first two leaks from the project HERE & HERE.

Notes of the Neighborhood Block Party (Video)

2011-06-05T14:44:00.000-07:00

Community impact project lead by my students in Alternatives in Action's Sound Recording Studio class. Over 250 youth from eight schools came together for an afternoon of art, music and food. Take a look...

BlockPartyMuralDJVinylDigging

2011-05-26T21:28:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I played a set at the Peace & Dignity Mural Dedication, an ambitious two-block mural project has just been completed at the intersection of International Blvd and 41st Avenue by the aerosol mural collective the Community Rejuvenation Project. Listen to some of my mixes HERE.

We also had to go look for some vinyl at the flea market and snap some photos for my upcoming project with Coldshowa (of Chosen Few) "Unseen Supreme." If you don't already have them make sure to grab Easy To Find & Get Your Issue.

Photos by Keith Magruder.

What's up with Champ?

2011-05-15T16:19:00.000-07:00

So I realized at our crew meeting last week that I haven't posted anything about what Champ has been up to recently. Maybe it is because other people all over the internet are busy talking about him (here, here or here). Either way he's been making moves like usual, teaching scraper bike workshops to college students in Wisconsin and accepting awards at film festivals in Colorado. Keep up with Baybe Champ the Scraper Bike King over at originalscraperbikes.blogspot.com

Sky-I X DJ BASTA - Back To Martinique (Video)

2011-05-15T16:01:00.000-07:00

Video for the song "Back To Martinique" off the forthcoming Paella Creole by Sky-I X DJ BASTA. Video produced and directed by Evan Johnson.

Coldshowda X DJ BASTA - Get Your Issue (New Single)

2011-04-19T23:04:00.001-07:00

Get Your Issue by DaMansion
Freshness coming out of Da Mansion. Coldshowda X DJ BASTA - Get Your Issue. Second leak off of Coldshowda X DJ BASTA's forthcoming "Unseen Supreme" project.

Notes of the Neighborhood Block Party

2011-04-14T20:02:00.000-07:00

Its getting to be that time of year again. The sun is creeping out from the fog and the days are getting longer. Our first outdoor event of the year will be the Notes of the Neighborhood Block Party, an event planned organized and hosted by the students in my after school Sound Recording Studio class at Alternatives in Action. More info HERE or HERE.

Project YouthView Interview

2011-04-14T19:44:00.000-07:00

This Monday I got to work and found out that I had to fill in for an interview with Comcast's Newsmakers program. The interview was about Project YouthView, the annual film festival planned, organized, and hosted by the students in my after school Video Production class. If I had know about this beforhand I would have at least put on a shirt with a collar...

Keith's Clothing Pin/USB Drive

2011-04-05T23:27:00.000-07:00

Roots & Branches lead designer Keith Magruder is getting some burn for a clothing pin USB drive that he created (in collaboration with Hoang Nguyen) as a portfolio for a recent interview. Find out more about the project at Creative Session.

Coldshowda X DJ BASTA - Easy To Find (ft. Pep Love)

2011-03-26T15:27:00.000-07:00

New music from out of Da Mansion. Coldshowda X DJ BASTA - Easy To Find (ft. Pep Love, beat by Unjust). First leak off of Coldshowda X DJ BASTA's forthcoming "Unseen Supreme" project. Design by Unjust.

Works In Progress (Keith Magruder/Coldshowda/DJ BASTA)

2011-02-18T12:27:00.002-08:00

An audio visual collage of found footage gleaned via the internet, layered over a segment of...Works In Progress from forthcoming projects with Cold Showda (Chosen Few), Somos One (BRWN BFLO), Sky-I, Baybe Champ (Original Scraper Bikes) and Keith Magruder. Each artist will be dropping individual projects alongside DJ BASTA this summer. Listen or download the full mix at...
mixcrate.com/mix/29974/DJ-BASTA-Works-In-Progress
(Video also available on YouTube)

Sampler Mix of Upcoming Projects from Roots & Branches Sound System...

2011-02-18T12:27:00.001-08:00

Works In Progress by DJ BASTA
(Also available at Mixcrate)

2011-02-18T12:12:00.000-08:00

"The Urban Bike Movement: Peace Rides to Scraper Bikes" Article by Eric K. Arnold

2010-12-11T16:24:00.001-08:00

Scraper Bikes: A Movement of Their Own

A less overtly political but equally uplifting branch of the bicycle movement is the Scraper Bike phenomenon—a brainchild of 21-year-old Tyrone “Baybe Champ” Stevenson, a budding entrepreneur and hip-hop artist.

Scraper Bikes—defined by the Urban Dictionary as “a customized bicycle featuring oversized wheels, foil-encased spokes, and a spray-painted frame”— have become tremendously popular among youth in the streets of East Oakland, where Stevenson leads rides with up to 40 kids at a time.
The Scraper Bikes movement, which has been developing for almost a decade, came out of a desire to avoid the cycle of drugs, crime, and violence plaguing the ghetto, as well as a need for youth to create something that’s their own, according to Stevenson. “Bicycling,” he adds, “is healthy, it keep[s] the environment clean, and it’s exercise. At the same time, you could be riding around in style, get some music going on it.”
This unique form of transportation has also attracted considerable attention outside the ‘hood because of a YouTube video by Stevenson’s rap group Trunk Boiz that has gone viral. Now people from as far away as Japan and Australia are reportedly making their own Scraper Bikes. Media attention has come from the likes of the Huffington Post, NPR, and The Ride, a cycling magazine from the U.K. Also, the Original Scraper Bike (OSB) team has exhibited at D.I.Y. extravaganza Maker Faire over the past two years.

Stevenson calls Scraper Bikes a lifestyle as well as a way to teach life skills. OSB team members must adhere to certain strict criteria—among them, maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA and following safety guidelines. Oakland’s Parks and Recreation department is working with Stevenson to hold workshops around public safety, in addition to hosting block parties with Roots & Branches, a youth-centric nonprofit that uses hip-hop culture to promote positive social change.

According to Nicholas Basta, founder of Roots & Branches, Scraper Bikes are “making bicycling cool for young people.” By customizing their wheels and tricking-out their rides, urban youth from eight to twentysomething are literally taking transportation issues into their own hands. Or as the Trunk Boiz put it: My scraper bike go hard/I don’t need no car.

Check out the rest of the article Urban Habitat.

Roots & Branches Fall Update

2010-12-09T23:09:00.000-08:00

When block party season is over we take it inside to build until for the next season. Lots of time in the studio, djing indoors instead of in the street, building our community and putting in work with youth. I started working with an organization called Alternatives in Action during March of this year and have been going full speed. I have been running a full recording studio located at the Bay Area School of Enterprise, a charter high school where I lead four different multimedia classes. My day job has become an incredible outlet for me to produce multimedia works with youth and provide a space I only wish I had access to at my students age. The students have created a blog for each of the four different classes. Take a look/listen at some of the projects...

BASE Radio (During School)
The Art of Storytelling (During School)
Video Production (After School)
Sound Recording Studio (After School)
>

In other news, I started djing a monthly night at Showdown SF with Cold Showda of Chosen Few (Hiero Imperium) for the 21+ crowd. No cover 10p-2a third fridays, 6th @ Market, San Francisco. Come check us out...

Roots & Branches x J.U.I.C.E. LA

2010-11-22T15:37:00.000-08:00

Did a couple jams with the homies from J.U.I.C.E. LA, like minded folks doing good work in Los Angeles. Check out their work here.

Also listen to a Halloween posse cut featuring eight of my students who come from five different schools here.

NYC Excursion Summer 2010 Reggae Selection by DJ BASTA

2010-11-22T15:28:00.000-08:00

NYC Excursion Summer 2010 Reggae Selection by DJ BASTA

For more FREE mixes by DJ BASTA go here or here.

VitaminWater Social Club SF Takeover

2010-09-15T21:23:00.001-07:00

VitaminWater Social Club SF Takeover from Roots & Branches on Vimeo.

Up From The Underground 2 (Video)

2010-09-09T00:36:00.000-07:00

Up From The Underground 2 from Roots & Branches on Vimeo.

"Get Active For Your Community" Back-To-School Scraper Bike Ride and Festival PHOTOS 3

2010-09-02T20:33:00.001-07:00

Bike ride photos by Eric K. Arnold, read the full article at Oakland Local.

Original Scraper Bikes

Baybe Champ the Scraper Bike King

DJ Basta

Sky-I

O-Zone and J Mil-i-on

Festival photos by Mike Meyer

"Get Active For Your Community" Back-To-School Scraper Bike Ride and Festival PHOTOS 2

2010-09-02T20:26:00.001-07:00

Customized bicycles by the Original Scraper Bikes.

Photos by Mike Meyer.

"Get Active For Your Community" Back-To-School Scraper Bike Ride and Festival PHOTOS

2010-09-02T20:12:00.001-07:00

Keith Magruder (Example 1986) screen-printed 100 tshirts and facilitated an interactive art project where he had people use paint to customize their FREE tshirt.

Live painting by Desi

Photos by Mike Meyer.

"Get Active For Your Community" Back-To-School Scraper Bike Ride and Festival

2010-08-25T22:46:00.001-07:00

On Aug. 28th 2010, Original Scraper Bikes will be leading a bicycle ride around Oakland and would like to extend an invitation to the whole community to "Get Active" and ride along. All bicyclists meet at Frank Ogawa Plaza, the ride will include a stop at Rainbow Recreation Center (Seminary & International) and will end at Arroyo Viejo Park (7701 Krause Ave.) for the festival. Bike Ride 11am-1pm, Festival 1-6pm. Roots & Branches will be will be holding down the sound system with performances by DJ Basta, Ozone (of Turf Unity), Sky-I (West Indian Reggae Artist), Chosen Few, (of Hiero Imperium) and hosted by Baybe Champ the Scraper Bike King. Free T-Shirts for the first 100 people, screen-printed live by Keith Magruder (Example 1986), live mural painting by the Community Rejuvenation Project, FREE FOOD, 3-on-3-basketball tournament & dance competition presented by Youth Uprising.

"This is a real dream I had last night. In East Oakland, a bike shop, mentor center, computer lab with Apple Computers, all green technology, somewhere in East Oakland that these kids can come see a friendly, fresh positive, saving the earth facility. Scraper Bikes." said Tyrone Stevenson Jr. (aka Baybe Champ the Scraper Bike King), founder and creator for the Scraper Bike Movement.

Over the pass few years the Original Scraper Bikes has hosted a list of successful community events, for youth living in communities infected by drugs, gangs, and violence. The Scraper Bike Movement has empowered hundreds of youth around the Bay Area to make a change against these issues. This year’s theme is "Get Active For Your Community". Original Scraper Bikes is collaborating with Roots & Branches and the City Of Oakland Parks & Recreation to inform youth about bike safety and bring together people on bikes. originalscraperbikes.blogspot.com

Kurse Krew Reppin @ Fresh Fest

2010-08-25T22:00:00.003-07:00

Ever since I met Kurse Krew a couple years back they have been building on their craft and throwing down fiery performances. But Kurse Krew are not only a promising group of upcoming artists they are some level-headed, intelligent young men. Rashid (who is seen wearing the R&B tshirt) just started school at the University of Oklahoma, where he got a scholarship for his debate skills. We are proud of you Rashid, get it! kurse.podomatic.com

Town Funk Summer Block Party Video

2010-08-10T23:35:00.000-07:00

Town Funk Block Party from Roots & Branches on Vimeo.

Youth-Produced Music Video for Real Me Movement "No Low Self-Esteem"

2010-07-22T21:19:00.001-07:00

For the past four weeks my students at Alternatives in Action's summer program have been developing a multimedia campaign to promote self-worth among youth in our community. This video and two others were filmed, edited and directed by youth. Check out the blog they created for their campaign called the Real Me Movement.

Music Video Produced

2010-07-22T21:19:00.000-07:00

VitaminWater Social Club Event Photos

2010-07-22T21:06:00.001-07:00

Baybe Champ the Scraper Bike King w/ DJ Basta

Keith Magruder

Real Life Studios

Desi (of CPR Bay Area) holdin down the merch table.

Kurse Krew

Photos by Mike Meyer

VitaminWater Social Club Event Photos

2010-07-22T20:36:00.000-07:00

Chosen Few (Hiero Imperium)

DJ Basta

Aware

Sunbeam RD.

Photos by Mike Meyer

@ Vitamin Water Social Club SF 7/9/10

2010-06-27T14:35:00.001-07:00

A night of art, music and food with Roots and Branches crew.

We will be taking over Vitamin Water's beautiful Social Club to bring you...

Performances by:
Chosen Few (Hiero Imperium)
Baybe Champ the Scraper Bike King
Kurse Krew
Sunbeam RD.
Real Life Studios
DJ Ras Cue
DJ Basta

Live Screen-printing by Keith Magruder

Live Painting by Cameron Thompson

Come help us raise awareness and funds for out FREE Summer Block Party Series.

(This is a FREE event, all ages welcome)

Friday, July 9, 2010 at 8pm-12am
Vitamin Water Social Club SF
557 Pacific Ave. (Btwn. Kearney & Montgomery)
San Francisco, CA (North Beach District)

Our Summer School 6/26/10

2010-06-25T21:15:00.000-07:00

Roots and Branches will be holding it down with BRWN BFLO at the Eastside Arts Alliance (2277 International Blvd. Oakland) tomorrow June 26 from 2-6pm. Come thru and connect with a wide variety folks doing progressive work in our community, see a performance from Baybe Champ the Scraper Bike King and much more.

Scrapertown

2010-06-08T11:30:00.000-07:00

Scrapertown from California is a place. on Vimeo.

A beautifully produced short video on Tyrone Stevenson aka Baybe Champ, the leader of the Scraper Bike Movement, who also sits on Roots and Branches Board of Directors. Scraper Bike Music dropping later this summer, stay tuned...

Town Funk One-Shot Preview

2010-06-08T10:10:00.000-07:00

Town Funk One-Shot Preview from Roots & Branches on Vimeo.

A glimpse at our Town Funk Block Party event last weekend. Full video coming soon...

Town Funk Summer Block Party 6/5/10

2010-05-27T00:44:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 5th, 2010, Roots and Branches will be partnering with the Community Rejuvenation Project plus othere local organizations to unveil four new murals and celebrating community from 12 - 5 PM at the intersection of 19th St. and Park Blvd. in Oakland. The Block Party will feature a Michael Jackson tribute by DJ Zeph honoring the anniversary of his death. Local Funktown musicians Rocker T and Jern Eye, Sabac and Revolutions of the Mind, Virtuous, Lyric, youth from Oakland High's Beats Rhymes and Life Film Project and the winner of their upcoming talent show. Controlling the tempo will be DJ Basta, the Roots and Branches crew, and DJ Smokestaxx with appearances by Baby Champ and the Scrapper Bike Team. This event will kick off the series of summer block parties that Roots and Branches and the Community Rejuvenation Project will be putting on regularly this year

The Community Rejuvenation Project transforms blighted areas of the community through murals, community clean-up, landscaping, gardening, and community celebrations. The grassroots organization transform high target walls, routinely blighted areas, and abandoned lots and turn them into points of community pride.

The Funktown Murals were created over the past year and a half by Desi W.O.M.E, Elijah Pfotenhauer, Daz La Rock, and Ras Terms. For more on the the Community Rejuvenation Project...

Up From the Underground 2 (more photos)

2010-04-16T17:37:00.000-07:00

Sunbeam Rd.

DJ BASTA

Up From the Underground 2 (some more photos)

2010-04-13T22:18:00.001-07:00

Baybe Champ (Scraper Bikes)

Moeketsi Gibe

Up From the Underground 2 (some photos)

2010-04-13T22:12:00.000-07:00

Abdan the Boll Weevil

Chosen Few (Hiero Emperium)

A few photos from our 2nd Up From the Underground event @ D-Structure SF. More photos and video to follow. Peace to all who came out and helped make for a positive night.

Featured in the East Bay Express

2010-04-07T18:47:00.001-07:00

Zoneil Maharaj (of Oh Dang) wrote a thorough article on our collective that ran in the East Bay Express today. Check it out HERE.

Featured in HipHop DX News

2010-04-02T16:52:00.000-07:00

http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.10957/title.dx-news-bits-dj-skee-az-roots-branches

Up From the Underground 2, 4/9/10

2010-03-31T10:17:00.000-07:00

Roots and Branches has partnered with D-Structure SF to help raise funds to further our programming focused on youth development, community based projects and all-age events. “Up From The Underground.” is on Friday April 9, 2010 at D-Structure, located on 520 Haight Street in San Francisco, from 8pm-11pm. This is an all age event, and high school students with school ID will receive free admission. Door price is a minimum of $5.00, however, since all the proceeds go towards youth arts and music programming, you are welcomed to generously donate more than $5.00 to the cause at the door.

Guests can expect live performances from hip-hop group “Chosen Few” and beats from producer Nima Fadavi, as well as appearances from Baby Champ, creator and leader of the Scraper Bike Movement and lyricist Abdan the Boll Weevil. Keith Magruder will be live screen-printing, and last but not least, Roots and Branches very own DJ Basta will rock a short vinyl set.

Roots and Branches is a youth-led community-building collective, based in Oakland. Our mission is to improve exposure to cultural events in local neighborhoods by bringing art, music and food to street level with block parties and other free community celebrations.

In order to continue actively advocating for our youth and providing free events programming around the Bay Area, we are cordially inviting all citizens to participate in making a difference by attending “Up From The Underground” at D-Structure SF.

RBS VOL. 3 Infiltrates KMEL

2010-03-31T10:12:00.000-07:00

Baybe Champ, went and checked out 106.1 KMEL's studio with the Youth Uprising crew earlier this week. Big up on getting Bay Area radio personality Chuy Gomez to take a flick holding the RBS Vol. 3 CD.

Bumpitythump @ D-Structure SF

2010-03-31T10:06:00.000-07:00

Bumpitythump @ DS-SF from Roots & Branches on Vimeo.

Youth drummers Bumpitythump have been a part of Roots and Branches collective over the past three years. This fiery group of drummers always get people moving and bring joyful energy to all those in earshot.

Here they are performing on the street outside of D-Structure SF to help promote Roots and Branches "Up From The Underground 2" event.

www.bumpitythump.com

"Up From The Underground" Video

2009-12-29T01:12:00.000-08:00

Roots and Branches "Up From The Underground" from Roots & Branches on Vimeo.

Roots and Branches first quarterly fundraiser/showcase at D-Structure Sf. The video by Philip Velasco, captures the beginning of the night with Bumpitythump, Kaua Aloha, Melina Jones and DJ BASTA.
Featuring the song "Uptempo" by Bumpitythump with DJ BASTA. From Roots and Branches Sound System Vol. 3, Available at rootsandbranches.bandcamp.com. All of the proceeds for the sale of this album go to support Roots and Branches free community building events programing in Oakland, CA.

"Up From The Underground" Fundrasier

2009-11-08T19:00:00.000-08:00

Come out and support Roots and Branches youth-led community-building collective. With performances by Baybe Champ, Bumpitythump, DJ BASTA and more. Plus live screen-printing by Keith Magruder.

Grant funding has been extra competitive in 2009. We have applied for more grants and been awarded less. So we are pursuing other forms of fundraising to help bankroll our events.

Just in time for the Holiday Season, Roots and Branches will be presenting a new line of custom merchandise:
-Hand Screen-printed T-Shirts, Hooded Sweatshirts and Tote Bags
-60 page Program Overview Book
-Sound System Vol. 3 CD

All of the proceeds go to support Roots and Branches free community building events programming in Oakland, CA.

$5 suggested donation (includes free drinks)

Friday, November 20, 2009 8:00pm-12:00am
D-Structure SF
520 Haight St. (@ Fillmore)
San Francisco, CA
http://d-structuresf.com/news.php?pid=976 or
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=185239805134&ref=mf

Roots and Branches Oakland

2009-11-08T18:55:00.000-08:00

Roots and Branches is a youth-led community-building collective. We improve exposure to cultural events in our neighborhoods by bringing art, music and food to street level with block parties and other free community celebrations.

From 2006-2008 we operated a retired ambulance, which was painted with a fresh mural for each event. We have featured nearly twenty-five different performers on our stage in the past four years. Our performances are photographed, video documented, & audio recorded. All media is made available at www.rootsandbranches.info.

Beyond our free public events, Roots and Branches provide technical and creative support for individuals and organizations in our community. Support services include: sound system, DJ, and hosting of events, grant writing, graphic design, art production and more.

Moving into our fifth year of programming in 2010 we have established Roots and Branches as a collective of artists, based mostly but not exclusively in Oakland, producing innovative works in multiple mediums, that hold youth development, community building and social responsibility as our highest priority along with peace, love, unity and having fun.

We have a big fundraiser coming up in partnership with D-Structure SF, the first of a series of quarterly events, called “Up From The Underground.” D-Structure SF is a storefront venue located in the Lower Haight neighborhood in San Francisco, CA. For our first event with D-Structure we have produced a 15-track compilation album, featuring music from Oakland youth artists and other advocates of Roots and Branches. We will also feature our new book, which documents our first three years of programming, as well as hand screen-printed t-shirts, hooded sweatshirts and tote bags.

For more in for on “Up From The Underground”
http://d-structuresf.com/news.php?pid=976 or http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=185239805134&ref=mf

To purchase a copy of Roots and Branches Sound System Vol.3
http://rootsandbranches.bandcamp.com

DJ BASTA & Baby Champ Interview on Hard Knock Radio

2009-09-03T17:36:00.000-07:00

DJ BASTA & Baby Champ did an interview on Hard Knock Radio (KPFA 94.1 FM) to promote Roots and Branches Sound System Vol. 3 and to discuss the great importance of youth leadership. If you didn't catch it live you can listen here...

DJ BASTA & Baby Champ Interview - Hard Knock Radio

Roots and Branches Newly Formed Board of Directors

2009-08-31T23:35:00.001-07:00

Roots and Branches newly formed Board of Directors at our fourth weekly meeting. In organizing the all youth board (everyone under 25 years old) we will be able to facilitate bigger events, more effective programing and progressive organizing. From left to right Keith Magruder, visual artist and clothing designer, Be-Naiah Williams, lyricist and educator, Nicholas Basta, Roots and Branches founder plus DJ and multimedia artist, Tyrone Stevenson Jr., rapper and creator of the Scraper Bike Movement. Lot of big projects in the works for the end of 2009 stay tuned.

Listening Party Photos

2009-08-31T00:48:00.001-07:00

Listening Party Photos

2009-08-31T00:33:00.001-07:00

Thanks to our friends and family who came out to be a part of our backyard barbeque listening party in support of Roots and Branches Sound System Vol. 3. Live screen printing, lots of tasty food, positive people, warm weather and appearances from core members of Roots and Branches community building collective. If you were not able to make it you can have your own listening party at http://rootsandbranches.bandcamp.com/

Oakland State of Mind Block Party Video (Re-Post)

2009-08-28T10:51:00.000-07:00

Oakland State of Mind Block Party from Roots & Branches on Vimeo.

Video produced by Oakland youth Skida Da Cheata, of Roots and Branches Oakland State of Mind Block Party 7/19/08. Featuring K'ua Aloha, Bumpitythump, DJ BASTA, Gemz, Banger Bananas, Big Hurt, Rev. Phil Lewis aka Motorcycle Mike, Gulliermo Galindo plus our friends, families and neighbors. (This video mysteriously disappeared from the internet, so I had to repost it. A little something to hold you over untill the Lakefest video is ready).

RBS VOL. 3 Now available online

2009-08-18T13:42:00.000-07:00

<a href="http://rootsandbranches.bandcamp.com/album/roots-and-branches-sound-system-vol-3">Willie Beamin - Sound System by Roots and Branches</a>

Roots and Branches Sound System Vol. 3 in stores now!

2009-08-12T22:14:00.000-07:00

Over the past six months DJ BASTA has been working with members of the Roots and Branches community building collective (youth and young adults who live in Oakland) to produce the Roots and Branches Sound System Vol. 3 compilation. The album features energetic and uplifting music weaving together beats, rap, drumming and other beautiful sounds. All of the proceeds from the sale of this album go to support Roots and Branches free community building events programming in Oakland, CA. The CD is on sale now at Amoeba Music in Berkeley, all Rasputin Music locations and will be available online soon.

@ Ameoba in Berkeley

@ front of store Ameoba in Berkeley

@ Rasputin in Berkeley

Video from Bumpitythump's 1st Annual Drum Festival

2009-08-09T17:56:00.000-07:00

Drumming, dancing, singing and celebration from Bumpitythump's 1st Annual Drum Festival in West Oakland on 8/8/09.

Lakefest Youth Stage Photos

2009-08-04T16:46:00.001-07:00

Lakefest Youth Stage Photos

2009-08-04T16:25:00.000-07:00

Roots and Branches youth stage at Lakefest 2009 was a major success. The full schedule of youth talent started with Kid Bumps drummers and the Lil Inspirations dancers. Youth Movement Records came through and held down a showcase multiple youth performers involved in their program. DJ BASTA kept it moving throughout the day with selections from Roots and Branches Sound System Vol.3. Bumpitythump brought the sun out and had the crowd moving along with them while they pounded out rhythms on Djembe's and Dun Dun's. Baby Champ rolled in with the Scraper Bike Team, blessed us with a selection of tracks from his forthcoming solo album and then went immediately after to get down on the main stage. VT and Yong Naughdy closed out the day with a fiery set of songs from their new album "Successful." Thanks to everyone who was involved and to our community for all the support. Shout to KDUB and the whole Hood Games crew and to Helen from Oakland Events for getting us involved. Photos by Sean Donnelly. Check out more of his work at seandonnellyphotography.com or http://www.insidebayarea.com/ci_12828515 Video coming soon.

Hood Games by the Lake Featuring Roots and Branches Youth Music Showcase

2009-07-25T23:30:00.000-07:00

Come out to the second day of Lakefest 09 and support the talent of our local youth.

Live skateboard jam session organized by Hood Games. All skaters welcome.

Youth Stage by Roots & Branches, featuring artists from Roots & Branches and Youth Movement Records.

The Official Release of Roots and Branches Sound System Vol. 3 album.

Featuring performances by Baby Champ, VT & Young Naughdy, Bumpitythump, DJ BASTA and more.

Sunday, August 2, 2009
11:00am - 4:00pm
Splash Pad Park
Lake Park Ave btwn. Grand Ave & Lakeshore Ave
Oakland, CA

For more info www.oaklandlakefest.com

MOVEMENT Video ("Boom" Preview)

2009-07-12T16:21:00.000-07:00

Focusing on the the idea of movement I pulled together a collection of clips I had recorded and collected of dancing, djing, scraper bikes, fireworks and much more. Includes a preview of the track "Boom" by Big Hurt from the forthcoming Roots and Branches Sound System Vol. 3. Video by BASTA. Beats by Big Hurt

Scraper Bikes "On The Scene" Preview

2009-05-08T13:57:00.000-07:00

Preview of Baby Champ's new hit "On The Scene." Beat by Big Hurt, mix and video by DJ BASTA. Off of the upcoming Roots and Branches Sound System Vol. 3 dropping this summer. www.rootsandbranches.info

Bumpitythump in the studio

2009-05-08T13:20:00.000-07:00

Bumpitythump in the studio with DJ BASTA. Recording for Roots and Branches Sound System Vol. 3. Album dropping this summer. www.rootsandbranches.info

GEMZ in the studio

2009-05-08T13:17:00.000-07:00

GEMZ in the studio with DJ BASTA. Recording his song "The Dead" for Roots and Branches Sound System Vol. 3. Album dropping this summer. www.rootsandbranches.info

Check out Roots and Branches process blog

2009-03-26T21:21:00.001-07:00

Stay up with Roots and Branches have going on process blog, http://rootsandbranchesprocess.blogspot.com/ Our main blog page features documentation from our free public events in Oakland. Whereas the process blog highlights everything else we have going from other events we are involved with in the community, documentation of the Roots and Branches Sound System Vol. 3 album, and other elements of our process.

For questions about Roots and Branches programing or to get involved email BASTA, nicholas.basta@gmail.com.

Oakland State of Mind Block Party

2008-08-11T20:59:00.001-07:00

Circleball

Funk N Chunk

Oakland State of Mind Block Party

2008-08-11T20:45:00.001-07:00

Keith (Example 1986) printing for the crowd

K'ua Aloha

Bumpitythump and Inspirational Movement

Gemz and Big Hurt

Oakland State of Mind Block Party

2008-08-11T20:00:00.000-07:00

Man-Man on the mic

Rev. Phil Lewis aka Motorcycle Mike with DJ BASTA

Gulliermo Galindo

"We are a community, that means that we have a common unity!" exclaimed Rev. Phil Lewis aka Motorcycle Mike over the Roots and Branches sound system at the Oakland State of Mind Block Party on July 19, 2008. Lewis, the first to record a rap song in Oakland in 1981, made his first reappearance as Motorcycle Mike, combining his old school rap style with his current practices of singing & preaching in his church in East Oakland and his profession as a social worker. The stage had been previously set ablaze by a lineup of talent from all over Oakland. The day started with the Kid Bumps a grammar-school-aged group of drummers, followed by the K'ua Aloha Hula, and Bumpitythump set it off with their hard-hitting African rhythms while Inspirational Movement danced out on the street. Next producer/rapper Gemz gave an energetic performance that got the young and old dancing to his message of community upliftment. Then brothers Banger Bananas & Big Hurt showcased back-to-back all instrumental sets live from the their Korg Triton keyboard. Rev. Phil Lewis aka Motorcycle Mike helped to introduce the days performers and started his set over a beat played by Banger Bananas. For his set, Lewis brought Gemz back to the stage and his son A.B. representing the next generation of rappers coming out of Oakland spit a verse about presidential candidate Barack Obama. The final performance of the day came from Gulliermo Galindo who played his homemade electronic instrument bringing a completely unique sound to the neighborhood in North Oakland. Offstage the live screen-printing and free t-shirt giveaway formed a large crowd. Circleball, an adaptation of basketball played in the round on a hoop with no backboard was setup at the far end of the street and offered another exciting attraction for the event. Funk N Chunk held down the BBQ feeding at least 200 people, but we had not prepared enough food to feed the large turnout for the event, a first in Roots and Branches event history. KPFA 94.1 FM's Full Circle Radio held down with us for the event and interviewed performers and community members, featuring Roots and Branches on the radio and providing another event first.
Thank you so much to all of our community who came out to support and for everyone who was involved with the event.

Roots and Branches Oakland State of Mind Block Party 7/19/08

2008-06-17T17:27:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, July 19th, 2008, join us for Roots and Branches Oakland State of Mind Block Party. We are returning to the Island Park on Adeline Ave. at 61st ST. for the third consecutive season. Our stage will be hosted by Rev. Phil Lewis, who will be addressing the state of Oakland, the state of hip-hop and the culture of criminality that we are currently living in. The day’s performances will start with the Bumpitythump drummers and the Inspirational Movements dancers, a youth group from West Oakland. Conscious rapper Gemz will shine light on the current youth mind state in Oakland. Brothers Big Hurt & Banger Bananas will showcase freshly produced hip-hop beats played live from the keyboard. Electronic musician and composer gal*in_dog will bring us into another dimension of sound. T-shirts will be screen printed at the event involving community members in the design of their own unique shirt. A free communal meal will be served to nourish all in attendance. Roots and Branches neighborhood events promote strength, unity, and social awareness in the streets of Oakland. Come celebrate the fortitude of the Oakland community with Roots and Branches.

Roots and Branches @ Emeryville Earth Day Street Party

2008-05-25T22:34:00.000-07:00

2008 was our third year being involved with the Emeryville Earth Day Street Party.
Roots and Branches sound system hosted the basketball tournament and featured performances by Bumpitythump and Gemz.
First ever video record and edited by Basta.
Upcoming event: Saturday June 14 @ the Museum of Children's Art (MOCHA) in downtown Oakland, stay tuned.

RBS OAK Photos

2008-04-09T10:14:00.000-07:00

RBS OAK Photos 2

2008-04-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

Roots and Branches gallery event at California College of the Arts was a major success. Thanks to the support of our families, friends, and extended Oakland community we fed over two hundred people and packed Isabelle Percy West Gallery and the surrounding areas. Our community at CCA got a taste of our work and Chef Beau's lasagna. And it was about time for the ambulance to get a fresh coat of paint plus some hot screenprints. For those who could not make it out to the opening this post is evidence of our work off the street.

Roots and Branches Oakland Gallery Event

2008-03-03T18:33:00.001-08:00

Roots and Branches Anthology Video

2008-03-03T18:31:00.000-08:00

A look back at Roots and Branches events in 2006 and 2007. Video by BOB and sound by Basta.

Roots and Branches Podcast

2007-11-18T17:35:00.000-08:00

Three Sounds Showcase

2007-11-04T17:47:00.001-08:00

October 20, 2006. Island Park. 61st & Adeline. Roots and Branches closed out the 2007 outdoor event season with the Three Sounds Showcase. With much love and support from the North Oakland community Roots and Branches were welcomed back for our second annual October 20, season closer event, at the Island Park. Big shout out to Rufus and Lil' James for their involvement, they greeted us at the beginning of the event and held down. The homie Kel came through to paint a "block party" piece on the ambulance and brought Cass $ who painted a "five-one-oakland" pannel alongside. Roots and Branches Official Chef Beau fed over eighty people with his chili, macaroni & cheese, and yams. Thanks go out to the Oakland Fire Department and the Emeyrville Ice Cream Man for their support. The Three Sounds Showcase featured performances by Young Naughdy and VT with DJ Neef, followed by MC Yogi with DJ Basta, and then Binghi Ghost with Relic and Blaze. Respect to Selector I-Life and Jack Riddim. Big up to all involved for supporting the growth of the Roots and Branches tree. Thanks go out to all our family, friends and neighbors who have supported Roots and Branches community building events in Oakland.

To hear mixes from past Roots and Branches events go to www.rootsandbranches.podomatic.com

New Roots and Branches video coming soon, stay tuned.

Three Sounds Showcase--October 20, 2007

2007-09-15T14:57:00.000-07:00

Don't miss the closing block party of Roots and Branches Outdoor Event Season.
North Oakland communty potluck with a picnic by Roots and Branches Official Chef. Big stagesow by talented local performers making change in the Bay Area. Binghi Ghost and LuvFyah with Blessed Coast Sound. Young Naughdy with DJ Neef and MC Yogi with DJ Basta. Calling Oakland, Berkeley, Emeryville, El Cerito, San Leandro and out to the whole Bay, the festivities are free so come out and celebrate our community.

Oakland Youth Showcase

2007-08-02T16:42:00.000-07:00

Big Up, Oakland Youth Showcase.
On Saturday July 21. 2007 Roots and Branches returned to Grove Shafter, also known as, Marcus Garvey Memorial Park in West Oakland, for a community building celebration. The ambulance wore a fresh coat of paint reading Oakland on one side and Roots and Branches on the other, painted by Kamo. Chef Bo Bo held down the chrome grill with veggie shish kabobs and burgers, serving over seventy people. The stage was set with four 15” speakers, four 10” speakers, four 5” tweeters, three microphones and a pair of CD turntables, all powered by twelve-volt car battery power. DJ Neef has been working with Roots and Branches, Djing block parties over the past year. In our previous collaboration Neef has had the experience of performing outside of traditional music venues, in public as a part of Roots and Branches Soundsystem. DJ Neef is a future leader in how music will be made and heard in his community. For the Oakland Youth Showcase DJ Neef enlisted his brother Bam-Bam as well as friend Notti, to perform alongside him. While Neef held down the beats, both homemade and local, the three took turns on the mic, performing both original songs and covers of favorites. These three young men are rising stars and gave a high-energy performance for their neighborhood. Away from the stage folks lounged on the grass, in the shade provided by a large oak tree and the multiple crossing freeway ramps above. With each community event our roots grow deeper and our branches get stronger.

Oakland Youth Showcase 7/21/07

2007-07-12T11:15:00.001-07:00

Reggae Jam 6/16/06

2007-07-09T21:18:00.001-07:00

Roots and Branches hosted the June Reggae Jam in Marcus Garvey Memorial Park at 36th St. and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. DJ Basta and Blessed Coast Sound System played historic to current reggae rhythms. Singers Binghi Ghost and Luv Fyah gave a passionate preformance on the basketball courts. Hunia's Divine Soul Kitchen fed everyone a vegetarian lunch.

Roots And Branches Promotional Video

2007-06-11T14:22:00.000-07:00

Reggae Jam West Oakland 6/16/07

2007-05-29T14:19:00.000-07:00

Confirmed for Roots and Branches Reggae Jam 6/16/07 are reggae singers Binghi Ghost and Luv Fyah, plus Selecta I-Life from Blessed Coast Outernational.

Roots and Branches T-Shirts and Mix CD's

2007-05-27T18:24:00.000-07:00

Just in time for summer Roots and Branches white tees are avalible in M, XL, & XXL.
Checkout the official Basta Presents...Roots And Branches Sound Sysyem mix cd, avalible now.
All songs mixed from original vinyl, and including audio from members of the Roots and Branches community.
Roots and Branches block party and youth development program is currently funded by a couple of small grants, we are searching for funding sources to make our program sustainable. All proceeds from sales of Roots and Branches t-shirts and cd's goes to suppport community building events. Contact: nbasta@cca.edu.

BBOY BBQ 5/19/07

2007-05-27T17:28:00.000-07:00

Roots and Branches in the Park. The normally sleepy Jefferson Park was brought to life with DJ Basta on turntables, Bobby the Barbarian at the grill, DJ Neef bring the Bay slappers, a lively pickup basketball game, live painting by Kel & Cass and a fresh piece on the Roots and Branches ambulence by Ides. Downtown Oakland.

Block Party Season Kickoff 4/22/07

2007-05-27T17:10:00.002-07:00

Our first of monthly events throughout the summer. Free vegetarian meal prepared by Chef Bobo, DJ Basta on the turntables, double-dutch jump rope and dancing in the street. North Oakland.