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.

In every local music scene, there are artists who don’t just participate, they help shape the culture. For the Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County Hip Hop scene, Prol’e is one of those artists. Born Tony Thompson, Prol’e’s journey in music started early. Born in Detroit with a strong musical background in his family, stepping into music wasn’t a question, it was a calling.