The last Flushing Night Out event for the Summer puts the spotlight on a under-represented voice: Asian-American Hip Hop artists. NY1's Van Tieu caught up with the Flushing-bred producer who is telling their story.
When it comes to mainstream hip-hop, Asian American voices are nearly non-existent.
Flushing Night Out's final event of the season puts Asian American talent on the main stage, like MC Bohan Phoenix, and Flushing-bred Jaeki Cho.
"As an Asian American, Korean American who grew up in Flushing, who grew up in Queens- as a whole—this type of community event that can actually bring all the youth together," said Cho.
Cho is the co-producer of BAD RAP.
The documentary premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival to rave reviews from film critics.
It features four Asian rappers in different stages of their careers- including Forest Hills' Awkafina.
The film, he says is crucial in telling an untold story, showing how the love for hiphop transcends racial stereotypes. He says performing in Flushing isn't just exposure for the artists, but for future generations.
"Having musicians that also represent particular stories that the local kids can relate to. For me and some of my buddies to be at the forefront- of it is I think it’s a very exciting feeling," said Cho.
Cho and other Hip Hop artists are set to perform at Flushing Night out starting at 6 p.m. Friday, at Flushing High School.