Tag Archives: austin

Back in the late 90’s, I was just beginning my career as a professional musician.  Hip-Hop Mecca was in full swing on the Austin scene, and I was getting DJ spots with those guys back in high school.  Playing for touring acts and getting to meet local legends like Nick-Nack, Tee Double, Bavu Blakes and Mirage allowed me to form some long lasting friendships.  One specific individual, however, helped me turn the corner and learn to cultivate my artistic talents and express myself.  This individual was Da’Shade Moonbeam.

We originally met at Reagan High School in the theatre department.  It didn’t take long for us to realize that we were both huge fans of The Dungeon Family, and by extension, the growth and development of the south as a true force in hip-hop expression.  We both had a love for poetry, both in verse form and in expressionistic form.  Through the vehicle of the DKC (founded by NOOK), we were able to give back to the Austin community via entertainment (Jump On It!) and activism.

Over the years, Da’Shade has become a force to be reckoned with on the Austin creative scene.  He is one half of the Austin hip-hop mainstay Blacklisted Individuals.  He has been seen working the likes of Zell Miller on the Austin theater front.  He has been a vital part of the slam poetry teams that have gained Austin so much recognition.  He is changing the shape of finding inner peace through combat arts in the form of Cry Havoc Action Choreography.  He was even recently mentioned in an Austin 360 article:

“The longtime member of the socially conscious Austin rap crew Blacklisted Individuals is setting out solo to redefine the hip-hop live set, using theater, video, poetry, dance and more to immerse crowds in a complete creative environment.“

Don’t take my word for any of this though… the truth always speaks for itself:

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-chief