Artists From Bill Cosby's Upcoming Hip-Hop Project Defend Cosby's Mission & Current Efforts To Reach the Hip-Hop Generation
New York, NY (November 6, 2009)—- Two of the three artists featured on Bill Cosby's new hip hop project, "State of Emergency" have issued statements in response to the open letter Russell Simmons published on his site in which he critiques Cosby and the CD project.  Due out November 24th, "State of Emergency" incorporates the work of three rap artists, Supa Nova Slom, Jace the Great, and Hahz, who wrote and performed songs based on Cosby's ideas as a means to bridge the generational gap and inspire social change.
Supa Nova Slom, who in addition to being a hip-hop artist, has been a community activist for many years has spearheaded initiatives such as The Hip Hop Meditation Cyphers, The Unify the Hood, Heal the Hood organization, and "The Wholistic Wellness for the Hip Hop Generation" DVD project.  He had this to say in response to Russell's commentary, "I hope that people do not get distracted and lost in the critiques of Cosby's past comments but instead they are able to acknowledge what Cosby is doing RIGHT NOW! Cosby is taking a whole other route by investing in politically charged hip-hop that does not condemn but instead inspires and uplifts during a time when there is next to none of that happening in the music industry.  People need to be inspired and empowered again to get involved just as we got involved during the Civil Rights and Black Power Movements. This CD hopefully will inspire not only conversations, but also actions, programs, and raised self-esteem."
Another artist on the project, Jace The Great, emphasized Cosby's intergenerational approach and the need for solutions saying, "Cosby has actually moved beyond just addressing or blaming the youth.  In our town hall he spoke openly to the elder generation about their involvement and accountability.  Point blank the problem right now is there is a State of Emergency in our communities and we need to act fast.  Cosby knowing the power and importance of hip-hop culture is using it as a means to reach more youth not to condemn them."
To view footage from the town hall meeting Cosby and the artists held in October please visit http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/2387230.   For interview requests please contact Autumn Marie of The AM Group 646-319-2584 or autumnmarie@theamgroup.us
CONTACT: Autumn Marie 646-319-2584 autumnmarie@theamgroup.us
