Hip Hop Week MKE returns with beat battles, big names, education and more

Milwaukee’s celebration of all things hip hop is set for its sixth year, and the volume is getting turned up once again.

Hip Hop Week MKE runs from August 17-23, and this year features some big performances and multiple generations of artists coming to Milwaukee to celebrate. In addition to that, the week of programming will also feature DJ learning sessions, a two-night beat battle, a run/walk, spin classes, breakdancing, and guest speakers to talk about financial literacy.

Of course, some big names are also helping by making appearances throughout the week. Things kick off on Sunday, August 17th when Clipse play The Rave as part of their “Let God Sort ‘Em Out” reunion tour with Earthgang. There will also be a two-night beat battle, featuring the top eight producers from Breaking And Entering’s Big Beat MKE tournament. The first round takes place on August 19th at The Cooperage, judged by legendary producer 9th Wonder, who will DJ afterwards. The semifinals and finals will be judged by Griselda Records producer Conductor Williams, and afterwards will feature a performance from Benny The Butcher. Tickets for both nights of the battle are on sale now at The Cooperage and The Rave websites, respectively.

There’s an emphasis on health, as well, with partnerships from Spinn Milwaukee and FEAR MKE. Two morning Hip Hop Spin classes will take place on the 20th and 22nd at Spinn MKE, and a Saturday morning run/walk will consist of 1-3 mile courses with a soundtrack from DJ Nic Stokes. 

If you want to get involved, there’s certainly plenty of ways to do that. DJ Skool at TRUE Skool will feature a cast of Milwaukee DJs, providing instructional sessions throughout the week. There are also a pair of seminars, one on legal matters, and another on financial literacy to round out the week.

For more information, check out the Hip Hop Week page from the City of Milwaukee website. Check out the full lineup of events below:

August 17 

August 18

• DJ Skool: DJ Lolo & DJ The Jenius at TRUE Skool
• SOS: Saving Our Selves Concert presented by Gat Turner at Wisconsin Black Historical Society

August 19

August 20

August 21

• Job Fair at Manpower Group
• DJ Skool: DJ Nu Stylez & DJ Bamn at TRUE Skool
• Planting Your Financial Seed with Coach Darvin at 100 Gems Plaza

August 22

August 23

• Hip Hop & Miles Run / Walk with DJ Nic Stokes at Kuumba Juice & Coffee
• 14th Amendment & You featuring Dawn Blagrove Esquire at Wisconsin Black Historical Society
• Breakdance Battle at Radio Milwaukee
• Cigars & Rhymes at Brownstone Social Lounge