Embracing Black Love: A Conversation with the Kingmakers of Oakland on Hard Knock Radio

KPFA - Hard Knock Radio

In a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with the Kingmakers of Oakland, featuring director Jahi, Alonzo Henderson, Khalil Chatmon, and Quinci Mann. The discussion centered around their upcoming album, **Black Love**, set to release on October 18, 2024. This powerful album reflects the strength, resilience, and creativity of the Black community in Oakland and beyond, aiming to uplift and inspire through music.

## The Essence of Black Love

As the conversation began, Davey D praised the Kingmakers for their impactful work in the Oakland community, stating, “I see people like you all doing this work day in and day out, being reflective, thoughtful, and forward-thinking.” The essence of **Black Love** was articulated by Jahi, who emphasized the importance of a message of unity and support in a time when young Black youth are often portrayed negatively. “Young Black kings in the community under 30 decided to say Black love,” he explained. “They decided to put forth a message and energy of Black love, no matter who wins the election.”

Alonzo Henderson added context, sharing how the album continues the legacy of their previous works, including *Kings in the Making* and *Revolution Remix*. “We moved on to an album called Revolution Remix in response to the 2020 pandemic and the racial tensions,” he stated. “Now we’re getting into the Black Love era, which is the culmination of all those projects.”

## Redefining Love Through Music

Davey D prompted the group to delve deeper into the concept of love, noting how it is often commodified and oversimplified in mainstream discourse. “The love you all are talking about… goes beyond just being a song,” he remarked. Alonzo responded, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of love as represented in the album: “We believe that there are multiple types of love… not necessarily a romantic love, but a real love that was shown to us by community.”

Khalil Chatmon built upon this idea, discussing the practical manifestations of love in their work. “There are actions that we do with kings that show love that show dedication,” he said, highlighting the systemic change that love can inspire. “For us, it’s really love, Black love, and action in everyday practice.”

## Community-Centric Approach

Quinci Mann, who joined the Kingmakers about a year ago, reflected on the collective effort behind the album. “This is a story that’s been four or five albums in the making… taking all of that love and putting it into action,” he shared. He emphasized the need for community involvement and collaboration to tell the authentic stories of Black experience. “It takes a village, and we all come together in ways that the wider masses don’t even recognize,” Quinci noted.

The role of women in the movement was also highlighted, as Davey D pointed out the importance of amplifying their voices alongside the kings. “We can’t talk about kings without queens,” Quinci affirmed, acknowledging the historical disjointing of families due to systemic oppression.

## The Power of Music

As the conversation continued, the discussion turned to the musical composition of **Black Love**. Khalil explained the album’s creation process, stating, “We were very intentional with this process of making this album.” The album incorporates a mix of electronic instrumentation and live music, allowing for a rich auditory experience. Alonzo shared that their producer, Zoran Beats, helped create a vibrant sound that goes beyond traditional hip-hop.

Jahi elaborated on the significance of live music, describing how it can create a more profound connection with listeners. “This music is a breath of fresh air,” he said. “It becomes my soundtrack to my daily life, as we, as Khalil would say, Black love in action.”

## An Invitation to the Community

The Kingmakers are eager to share **Black Love** with the world and invite the community to join them at their listening party on October 17, 2024, at Cool Labs in West Oakland. “We’re asking folks to download the Even app for a pay-what-you-want scale to access the album,” Jahi encouraged. He further emphasized the importance of community engagement in their mission, stating, “Hip-hop started in the community… We are standing on the shoulders of our ancestors in West Oakland.”

## Conclusion

The conversation with the Kingmakers of Oakland underscores the transformative power of love, community, and art. Through **Black Love**, they aim to redefine narratives around Black identity and uplift those around them. As Jahi poignantly stated, “The love for ourselves is unfinished business,” and this album serves as a powerful reminder of that truth.

For more information and updates on the Kingmakers of Oakland, follow them on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kingmakers.music) or visit their website at [kingmakersofoakland.org](https://kingmakersofoakland.org). Don’t miss the chance to experience **Black Love** and join in the celebration of community and unity.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

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