Battle sounds
In the storied history of the DMC DJ competition, two Texans had never made it to the national finals in the same year. But on Friday, August 26, two sons of San Antonio, DJs Kico and Donnie D, not only competed in the finals, but finished in the top three.
The world DMC (Disco Mixing Championship) competition was held at Webster Hall in New York City, and featured 16 competitors who'd finished first in their own region. Donnie D was the first on the decks and his dynamic set earned him an impressive overall third place. DJ Kico stepped up with an even smoother performance and at the end of the night was named the 2005 US DMC Champion, a feat that hasn't been accomplished by a Texan since Dallas' Baby G took the title in 1990.
Kico, who moved to San Antonio from Chicago three years ago, earned his spot at the nationals with a win at the Chicago Midwest Regional in April, while Donnie D took the top honors at the Austin Southwest Regional. Donnie D says the astounding national performance of these two DJs should elevate the city's potent, but frequently overlooked hip-hop scene.
Next up for Kico are the DMC World Finals which will take place in London on September 29. San Antonio can now legitimately claim two of the illest DJs in the country, and to mark the occasion the Prhymemates Collaborative will present "Damn That DJ Made My Day," a dance party/turntablist exhibition on Friday, September 23 at the White Rabbit, beginning at 10 p.m. Featured DJs are Kico, Donnie D, and Tech-neek. At the show, Kico and Donnie D will also be releasing their latest mix tape. For more information visit phrymmates.com.
Hurricane relief
In addition to welcoming thousands of Hurricane Katrina evacuees, San Antonio is getting behind the relief effort with a series of benefit shows. On Thursday, September 15, Jack's Patio Bar & Grill hosts "United We Jam," a concert which will feature 51 Acres, Structure, Vallejo, George Devore, Jake Owen, Humble Road, Electric Crush, and members of Dog Men Poets. Electric Crush will also take part in an all-day benefit at Sunset Station on Saturday, September 10. Approximately 30 local restaurants will be represented at the Sunset Station concert, and blood donations will be accepted by the blood bank. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Compiled by M. Solis and Gilbert Garcia
