Hard Knock Radio

Saafir the Saucy Nomad

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In this episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D shared an unforgettable conversation with Bay Area hip-hop legend Saafir. Renowned for his innovative lyricism and contributions to West Coast hip-hop, Saafir opened up about his extraordinary journey, from his West Oakland roots to his impactful collaborations with figures like 2Pac and Digital Underground. The … Continued


Hard Knock Radio

Ishmael Reed on ‘Jazz Martyrs’: Exploring the Struggles of Jazz and Hip-Hop Artists

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In a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D engaged in a profound conversation with acclaimed author and playwright Ishmael Reed about his poem “Jazz Martyrs.” The poem serves as a poignant reflection on the struggles faced by jazz musicians throughout history, drawing parallels to contemporary artists in the hip-hop genre. Reed, who … Continued


In a compelling Hard Knock Radio interview, host Davey D speaks with Dr. Ayodele Nzinga, artistic director of the Lower Bottom Playaz, and long-time activist and actress Cat Brooks about their new play, Government Housing. The play, currently being performed at Oakland’s BAM House, delves into themes of systemic oppression, white supremacy, and resilience. Rooted in … Continued


Hard Knock Radio

Hard Knock Radio Hosts Critical Discussion on HR 9495 and the Fight for Civil Rights with Lara Kiswani and Ethel Long-Scott

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On a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D delved into a pressing issue that poses a serious threat to civil liberties in the United States—House Resolution Bill HR 9495. This bill, if passed, could grant the executive branch the authority to label and target nonprofit organizations as terrorist groups based on their … Continued


Hard Knock Radio

All My Love: Kev Choice on Music, Vulnerability, and Community and Poor News Network

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In this episode of Hard Knock Radio, we feature Kev Choice, a classically trained pianist, rapper, composer, and educator who has redefined the Bay Area music scene. Born and raised in Oakland with roots in San Francisco, Kev masterfully blends hip-hop, jazz, soul, and classical influences to create a sound that’s entirely his own. His … Continued


In an impactful episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D engaged in a profound conversation with Arthur Reed, known as Silky Slim. Reed, a former street leader turned peace advocate and filmmaker from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, shared his transformative journey from a life steeped in violence to one focused on advocacy and storytelling. Now … Continued


Hard Knock Radio

America the Verb: Tim Wise on Race, Politics, and Power

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Navigating Race, Politics, and Cultural Competency: A Hard Knock Radio Conversation with Tim Wise On a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D spoke with Tim Wise, an anti-racist educator and author, to unravel the complexities of race and politics in the U.S. The discussion explored topics from electoral outcomes to the role … Continued


Hard Knock Radio

Breaking the Silence: Big Tech, Fascism, and the Grassroots Path Forward

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On a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D engaged in a powerful conversation with Kali Akuno, co-founder of Cooperation Jackson in Mississippi, on the shifting U.S. political landscape post-election. Known for his dedication to cooperative economics and grassroots organizing, Akuno provided a critical analysis of the election results, forewarning of the rise … Continued


Hard Knock Radio

In Pursuit of Revolutionary Love: Precarity, Power, Communities (Encore)

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On this episode of Hard Knock Radio, we dive into a compelling conversation with author Joy James about her latest book, In Pursuit of Revolutionary Love: Precarity, Power, Communities. James explores the intersections of vulnerability, resistance, and solidarity, shedding light on how communities can build transformative power amidst structural challenges. Hard Knock Radio is a … Continued