George Watsky feat Passion: "I Got This Love"

When we think of Bay Area hip-hop, we too often get trapped in the same stereotypical expectations outsiders do. We too often wait for a line about moving weight, or something turf-oriented to validate a song as authentically Bay and worthy of a few spins. I would just like to take a moment to say, fuck that.

I had a great convo last night with some real intelligent Town-folk about life, love and growth, and I feel that too often as a local music market, we don't challenge ourselves to grow. We stay mired in the same small thinking that so limits our development as a city. So I have to shout out my folks on the up-and-up, who understand the importance of expanding their horizons in as many ways possible.

With that said, thanks to George Watsky for your always insightful and awe-inspiring lyrics, to Passion for your smooth soulful delivery and to the folks who assembled the amazing video using over 1,500 photos. This is the Bay shit I love- the unconventional, quirky, dope and heartfelt departures from the status-quo. I hope you take note and a few listens.

Vid via iLL-Lit

If The SCO's George Watsky Were President...

San Francisco's George Watsky has been a star in the Bay's spoken word scene for a number of years now. Since first rocking the mic at the age of 16, the HBO Def Poet has gone on to master the spoken word and delve into rap and theater as well. Much of George's work is rife with humor and wordplay, but there is also a more serious side to him. In the poem below, which he performed at the DNC, he offers a local and personal take on global warming. In the clip above Watsky joins the likes of Mos Def, Danny Glover, Murs, Van Jones & Wyclef Jean to offer his take on the present political climate.

Watsky has accomplished a lot already, but his ascent is far from complete. He has befriended Robert Redford, new Alaska Senator Mark Begich and is planning a move to LA to pursue acting. He has a dope album out with his rap/jazz fusion group Invisible Inc and has a solo album coming soon.
He was recently featured on the UK'S Fresh Air Radio on DJ Matt Werner's "Hella Hyphy Hour." He discusses, the spoken word scene, his new music, acting and his beef with adorably awkward actor Michael Cera for stealing his (un)swag. Listen to Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5.
Make sure you keep your ears and eyes open for Mr. George Watsky- you will soon know his face, voice and undeniable and versatile talent if you don't already. To see George, check his website, Myspace and Invisible Inc's Myspace for his upcoming shows. Chuch