I was 15 when I was introduced to what I like to call “Authentic Hip Hop.” The MP3 player we brought to the 2nd floor restroom every Wednesday when we skipped the practice Ohio Graduation Tests was filled with underground mixtapes and soulful classic hip hop recordings from the 90s. At that time I didn’t know how impactful those listening sessions would be. But one thing was certain. Wednesday quickly became my favorite day of the school week. 
 I anticipated hearing the newest releases. I studied the culture. My knowledge of the art form grew. I gravitated to artists who had the ability to convey honest thought provoking and heartfelt stories through rhyme. It was in that 2nd floor High school bathroom where my love for the music started. And the rest as they say is history.