Milwaukee, WI – Hip Hop Week MKE 2025, a cornerstone event for the City of Milwaukee, successfully concluded its seventh annual celebration from August 17th to August 23rd, drawing together a diverse array of top-tier musical performances, vital community programs, and crucial discussions on civic engagement. This year’s iteration, spanning a full week, further cemented Milwaukee’s status as a trailblazer, being the first city in the United States to establish an official week dedicated to celebrating the multifaceted culture of hip-hop. The event honored the enduring legacies of local hip-hop figures Antoine “Twan” Mack and Antoine “OG Tweezy” Hogan, weaving their stories into the fabric of the week’s broader mission.
A Tradition of Culture and Community
Launched in 2018 through the efforts of Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Hip Hop Week MKE was conceived as a powerful platform to harness the widespread appeal of hip-hop music and culture to address significant urban issues. The core mission has always been to foster dialogue around civic engagement, voter registration, wellness and mental health, financial literacy, and to highlight pathways to success for the community. This annual event, approved by the Common Council, has become a vital part of Milwaukee’s cultural calendar, demonstrating the genre’s roots as a movement for positive change and community upliftment. It successfully brings together artists, community leaders, and residents, creating an immersive experience that goes far beyond just music.
Honoring Milwaukee’s Hip-Hop Legends
This year’s Hip Hop Week MKE paid a special tribute to two influential figures within Milwaukee’s hip-hop landscape: Antoine “Twan” Mack and Antoine “OG Tweezy” Hogan. Twan Mack, recognized as a true local legend, was recently inducted into the Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) Wall of Honor, celebrating his profound impact through lyrical prowess, community involvement, and dedication to his craft, inspiring countless local artists. His passing in November 2024 left a significant void. Similarly, Antoine “OG Tweezy” Hogan, a well-known artist, promoter, business owner, and community leader, was remembered for his contributions and leadership, having been lost in a senseless act of violence on July 12th. Their contributions and stories were central to the week’s narrative, highlighting the deep local roots of the culture being celebrated.
The Grand Kickoff and Musical Showcases
The vibrant celebration officially commenced on Sunday, August 17th, with a public news conference held at The Rave/Eagles Club. Hosted by Alderman Russell W. Stamper II, the event featured a showcase of local hip-hop art by True Skool, setting an energetic tone for the week ahead. Following the conference, the evening exploded with a highly anticipated kickoff concert at The Rave/Eagles Club, headlined by the legendary duo The Clipse, alongside the acclaimed Atlanta-based group EarthGang. This initial concert set a high bar for the musical talent featured throughout the week. Beyond the opening night, Hip Hop Week MKE offered a diverse lineup of performances and music-centric events. True Skool organized daily “DJ Skool” sessions from Monday through Thursday, providing aspiring DJs with hands-on experience and instruction. Furthermore, the week featured competitive showcases, including beat battles at The Cooperage and The Rave, drawing talent and notable figures such as producer 9th Wonder. Later in the week, major acts like Cypress Hill, Atmosphere, Lupe Fiasco, and The Pharcyde also graced the stage at The Rave, underscoring the event’s commitment to showcasing top-tier hip-hop music.
Beyond the Beats: Wellness, Workforce, and Civic Engagement
True to its mission, Hip Hop Week MKE 2025 integrated essential community programs designed to empower and inform attendees. Civic engagement was a prominent theme, with events focusing on the 14th Amendment and the importance of voting, encouraging residents to understand their rights and participate in democratic processes. Physical and mental well-being were addressed through morning activities like the “Hip-Hop & Ride” community bike rides, led by Spinn MKE, and the “Hip-Hop & Miles” fitness event, presented by FEAR MKE, both designed to foster active lifestyles and community connection. The week also placed a strong emphasis on financial literacy and economic opportunity. On Thursday, DirectConnectMKE and ManpowerGroup hosted a job fair, providing direct access to employment opportunities for residents. This was complemented by workshops such as “Planting Your Financial Seed,” which offered guidance on credit, homeownership, and dispelling financial myths, led by Darvin “Coach Darvin” Moore.
A Resounding Success Fueled by Community Support
Hip Hop Week MKE 2025 was made possible through the collaboration of numerous sponsors and partners, including the City of Milwaukee, Alderman Russell W. Stamper II, the Rainey Day Umbrella Group, Matt Talbot Recovery Services, ManpowerGroup, DirectConnectMKE, and The Rave/Eagles Club, among others. The event successfully leveraged the universal language of hip-hop to inspire, educate, and empower. It served as a powerful reminder of the genre’s enduring influence and its capacity to foster dialogue and drive positive change within urban landscapes, solidifying its place as a significant cultural and community force in Milwaukee. The success of this seventh annual event highlights the enduring power of hip-hop to connect communities and create meaningful opportunities for growth and development.
