Some years ago, I was working working away in an independent record store in Santa Cruz, California called Streetlight Records. I was in the midst of tackling a huge box of used vinyl we had just taken in, when I happened to notice that iconic hip-hop champion Chuck D was perusing our punk rock section. I knew Public Enemy was playing in town that night, but I never imagined I'd have the chance too meet such an influential lyricist and musician. I simply could not stop myself from approaching this veritable god of music, and weakly blurted out, "Y-y-you're Chuck D." He laughed and shook my hand, saying, "Yeah man. Nice to meet you. Whenever I hear there is an indie record store in a city we're playing, I like to stop by and check it out." I told him that we were selling tickets to the show, but that I was sorry I'd have to miss it as I couldn't afford it. He smiled briefly, and then announced to the store, "Anybody in here right now is on the guest list for the show tonight." With that, I knew that this hip-hop mastermind, this politically charged genius, this incredibly friendly man was everything I had ever heard, and then some. This was one of the most punk rock moments I had ever witnessed, and even though I imagine the venue hosting the group was less than pleased, the concert wound up being one of the most memorable of my life.
I tell you this, because we here at SFR learned today that Public Enemy will be performing in Santa Fe in April as the final performance of Santa Fe University of Art & Design's Artists for Positive Social Change series. I cannot think of a more appropriate act for the theme, and I hope you will join me in spending the next few months freaking out. Given the scope of Public Enemy, this is another major win for the Santa Fe music scene. And, of course, your old pals at SFR will have more details as they become available. Stay tuned.
