Waajeed: The Musical Journey from Hip-Hop to Techno in Detroit
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Robert O’Bryant, popularly known by his moniker, Waajeed, stands as a monumental figure in Detroit’s music spectrum. His early impact in hip-hop, as a pivotal member of Slum Village, gave him credence. However, his recent foray into the techno realm reminds us of Detroit’s intertwined relationship between the two genres, especially at events like the annual Movement Music Festival.
The festival’s absence due to the pandemic brought forth a poignant reflection for Waajeed. The void made him realize the sheer essence of live performances. “It’s not about me and my studio speakers,” he said, “This is a service. When done right, the crowd rewards you.”
Growing up, music was the very fabric of Waajeed’s existence. From the melodies of his parents’ backyard parties to the rich notes from his dad’s vinyls, he was always surrounded by a diverse musical palette. Michigan State University visits from his uncle would introduce him to contemporary tunes that the youth reveled in.
The hip-hop world beckoned Waajeed at St. Andrews’ Hall’s The Shelter. This concert venue in downtown Detroit was where he met like-minded individuals, fostering bonds and a shared world view, especially with the folks from Slum Village.
A 2005 music conference in Miami marked Waajeed’s first intimate encounter with techno. Here, Roy Davis Jr., a Chicago-bred artist and Waajeed’s close acquaintance, unveiled the depths of techno. Waajeed recalls the trance-like state of attendees during Davis’s set, a stark contrast to the head nods of hip-hop events.
While Waajeed confessed to initially approaching techno with a skeptical ear, a dive into Atlanta’s club scene revolutionized his understanding. “Techno isn’t just music,” he said, “it’s sound design. These sounds are curated for specific environments. Techno is meditative, akin to an athlete’s routine.”
Waajeed, along with ‘Mad’ Mike Banks, another Detroit techno sensation, is shaping the future through the Underground Music Academy. This initiative provides budding artists a foundation in the music industry. Waajeed’s vision goes beyond personal achievements; he aims to cultivate a shared space where artists uplift one another.
“Success is sweet,” Waajeed remarked, “but without sharing and nurturing the community, it feels incomplete.”
Waajeed’s trajectory from hip-hop to techno mirrors the ever-evolving soundscape of Detroit. As he continues to break boundaries, Waajeed also ensures the torch is passed on, nurturing the next generation of Detroit’s music maestros.
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