This piece is a historical exploration of hip hop open mic spaces in The 734 area, as told through the perspectives of four pioneers in the scene whose work has helped to shape the local music culture we enjoy today. It also dives into the dynamic between Detroit and 734, building bridges between different music communities, and passing the torch to newer generations of artists.

There’s something about artists from Ypsilanti that just feels different. Maybe it’s the environment, or the way creativity gets built authentically between real life responsibilities instead of inside perfect aesthetic driven studio sessions. To me it’s just that the stories tend to run deeper. J DUB feels like one of those artists.The first thing you notice isn’t even the music. It’s the presence. The kind of stage energy that makes people stop what they’re doing and pay at