New event “B-boy Beatdown” brings underground Tri-Cities hip-hop crews to the spotlight

If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between “rap” and “hip-hop,” the answer is simple. Rap is an element of hip-hop, but it isn’t hip-hop in its totality. Hip-hop isn’t just rap — old school hip-hop has four essential elements.

Classic hip-hop features rap (especially freestyle rap), DJs, b-boys (a subculture in street breakdancing) and graffiti. These four elements were integral to the culture as it grew, and continue to be essentials in local hip-hop scenes.

Most towns have a hip-hop scene on some level, many of which are underground. Graffiti artists, b-boys, DJs and rappers have their day jobs, then get together at community events to show off their skills.

Tri-Cities is one such area. There has been a rich culture with each of these elements in Tri-Cities for decades now, but the community is generally underground. While there have been events before, the upcoming “B-boy Beatdown” will be the biggest public event featuring the four elements of old school hip-hop in Tri-Cities.

The goal is to bring together professionals, enthusiasts and unfamiliar community members in one place to showcase the talent and depth of the scene.

Old school hip-hop event in Tri-Cities

The B-boy Beatdown is scheduled for March 9 at the Uptown Theatre. It’s primarily organized by two long-time players in the local scene, Johnny Curiel aka DJ Ruffcutt and Daniel Rojas aka King Reds. They both grew up in Pasco, infatuated with the hip-hop scene, and have been growing their skill and connections ever since.

Curiel says the goal of the event is to introduce Tri-Cities to real, pure hip-hop in its rawest forms, rather than commercialized rap. He noted the significant difference between modern-day rap and old school hip-hop, both in product and in culture.

While the B-boy Beatdown is open to all, both Curiel and Rojas have a specific goal of inspiring the next generation to keep old school hip-hop alive. Curiel recalled growing up in Pasco, and how important it was for him to find a positive outlet for his energy. He wants to inspire that same passion in today’s youth, rather than letting them learn from the Internet.

“I just want people to learn about it from someone who’s been around,” Curiel told the Herald in an interview. “Teach ‘em proper.”

He mentioned the common notion that there’s “nothing to do here,” especially for youth. When events like this take place, it’s important for the community to step out of their comfort zones and be present in a new setting.

“People are more hungry than ever for community events where you have to be present,” said Travis Rybarski, a local rapper who helped plan the event and will perform at the after party. He says this is why it’s perfect timing for the B-boy Beatdown.

In these circles, the craft isn’t about going viral, or even getting famous. Curiel will turn away work if it seems too focused on clout, he told the Herald, because it goes against the culture. It’s about the longevity, making a mark and proving yourself while doing something you’re passionate about.

“Attention is such an alluring currency now,” Rybarksi said. He noted in an interview with the Herald how rare it is to have organized events that aren’t focused on attention and profit.

Investing in Tri-Cities hip-hop

The duo has put on events for the scene in Tri-Cities for nearly two decades now, from schools to parks to breweries. People are often surprised by the turnout, in disbelief that the scene here is so large, Curiel says. Prizes and merchandise come out of their pockets, according to Curiel, and they do it simply because they love it.

“We have a huge presence in Tri-Cities and hip-hop has always been rich here, but it doesn’t really get the love and representation,” Curiel said.

Rybarski says the elements of this event will be similar to the duo’s previous events, just with more public spotlight. He said it was high time the self-sustaining group was shown off to the public — even though that’s not why they do it.

They also teach kids when they have time, and often travel to other events across the coast to compete, meet other crews and grow the name of the game in Tri-Cities.

“It’s a ‘show support, get support’ kind of thing,” Curiel said.

Because of their loyalty to other cities’ events over the years, crews from all over are returning the favor and traveling to compete in Tri-Cities. Beyond that, several nationally-acclaimed artists in each category are flying in for the event.

One such example is the award-winning DJ DV One, originally from Seattle and now based in Hawai’i. He was the original DJ for the Seahawks, and toured with them to the Super Bowl, among numerous other feats.

While several big-name DJs, rappers and b-boys will compete, all skill levels and styles are welcome to enter. Additionally, there will be time before the competition with open turntables, allowing anyone to try out some new equipment or experiment with a new sound.

This “jam sesh” will be from 1-3 p.m., with the b-boy jam and other competitions to follow. Curiel invites youth fascinated with DJ culture to take part in this opportunity, to try to scratch and see how it works.

Other elements featured in the event include a graffiti display, vinyl DJ performances, freestyle competitions, an emcee showcase, after party and other competitions. Regardless of skill level, Curiel describes the B-boy Beatdown as a chance to show what you’re worth in friendly competition, observe the culture and meet new like-minded people.

Past 6 p.m., drinks will be catered by The Emerald of Siam. There is also $2,500 in prizes up for grabs. All-day entry is only $10, with tickets available at entry.

Karlee Van De Venter is a full-time reporter at the Tri-City Herald who contributes Arts and Entertainment coverage for Tumbleweird. Through a co-publication agreement, this content will appear in Tumbleweird as well.