Press Release

*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*

10th Annual PRS Festival Celebrates Latino Contributions in Hip Hop Culture: "Elementos" Initiative Takes Center Stage*

N.Y.C – August 31, 2023* – The stage is set, the excitement is palpable, and the countdown has begun for the much-anticipated 10th annual Puerto Rock Steady Festival (PRS Fest), scheduled to run from September 21 to 23, 2023 in New York City. This year's festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Latino Contributions in Hip Hop Culture, coinciding with Hispanic Heritage Month. The festival proudly announces its groundbreaking initiative titled "Elementos, Part One” paying homage to the pioneers and legends of Hip Hop culture such as Charlie Chase (Cold Crush Bros), Jimmy Dee (Co-founder of the Rock Steady crew), B-Boy Spy (Crazy Commandos) and GrandMixer DXT (The First DJ to win a Grammy). Moderated by Ben Ortiz, collection specialist of the Cornell Hip Hop Collection and Peter Chelala, Paramount  Vice President, Programmatic Advertising Sales

From the birthplace of Hip Hop, New York City, the PRS Festival takes the spotlight by showcasing the historic "Elementos" initiative. This project aims to record the stories and accomplishments of the Latino community in Hip Hop's four foundational elements: DJs, Rappers, Graffiti artists, and Breakers. By preserving their narratives, the festival ensures that their legacy continues to inspire generations to come.

The festival kicks off with a momentous opening ceremony at Dumbo House in Brooklyn, where industry luminaries, artists, and aficionados will gather to mark the beginning of this immersive experience. Attendees will gain unique insights into the historical significance of Hip Hop, as well as the rich cultural tapestry woven by Latino artists.  DJ Safe Stadick spinning Classic Funk & Salsa. Hosted by D-Story from Sirius XM Radio. 

On Day Two of the PRS Festival, the celebration soars to new heights, both figuratively and literally. We invite attendees to join us in Soho, above the THC NYC Museum, for an exclusive experience at the Cola Lounge. With its rooftop views, this venue sets the stage for an evening of artistic indulgence. Performances by the legendary Melle Mel of the Furious Five, Large Professor, Smif-N-Wessun and a lineup of Celebrity guest DJs including Lord Finesse (D.I.T.C) and DJ SONI withanEye, DJ Tahleim, G-BO THE PRO,  will be spinning the classics providing the soundtrack to an unforgettable night. But it's not just about revelry; it's also about giving back. Day Two features an Art Auction, with all proceeds generously donated to a PRS Festival social good initiative. This is an opportunity to contribute to a cause while enjoying the best of Hip Hop culture and the arts.

Day Three of the PRS Festival transports us back in time for a night of nostalgia with a Hip Hop meets Gatsby vibe. Join us at Bill’s Super Club, located at 57 E 54th St, a venue steeped in history as a Prohibition-Era bar and a favorite haunt of celebrities from a bygone era. In collaboration with Classic Material and PRS Fest, the celebration continues with "I LOVE THE OLD N.Y.". It's a fusion of two worlds, where history meets modernity in a grand spectacle. Performances by the legendary Melle Mel of the Furious Five and a lineup of Celebrity guest DJs including; DJ Enuff (Hot 97), Break Beat Lou (UBB), DJ EyeSha, DJ SNKR Joe, DJ Marty Rock, and DJ Mack

Highlighting the festivities is a special retrospective exhibition featuring the extraordinary photography of Joe Conzo, "The man who took hip hop baby picture's". His lens captured some of the earliest moments of Hip Hop's evolution, now proudly exhibited at the Smithsonian Museum. These images offer a glimpse into the raw and authentic beginnings of a cultural phenomenon that has since taken the world by storm.

The recently sold-out show at Yankee Stadium commemorated the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop, featuring a lineup of legendary performers. The event also marked the "Last Performance" of Legendary Hip Hop Pioneer, Richard "Crazy Legs" Colón, with super star Fat Joe, and "B-Boy Gravity" who is competing in the U.S. Team in the Break dance category at the 2024 Olympics in Paris and with appearances by KRS One, Tony Sunshine, Remy Ma, Dj Kid Capri and Derek Jeter.

“ It’s my duty to continue to build on the legacy of early legends and pioneers who were instrumental since the inception of the culture. And it’s an honor to celebrate all Latino contributions in hip hop culture as we move into the future” - Richard “Crazy Legs” Colón

To provide enthusiasts with an all-access experience, the PRS Festival introduces the Passport membership, granting exclusive entry to all PRS events. For further details and ticket information, please visit www.prsfest.com.

Join us in celebrating a decade of creativity, resilience, and cultural heritage at the 10th annual Puerto Rock Steady Festival (PRS Fest). Be part of this transformative journey as we honor the past, amplify the present, and pave the way for a vibrant future in the world of Hip Hop.