Laney Tower

Issue date: 5/22/08 Last update: 6/2/08 at 10:49 AM PST Section: Arts

This mural is the backdrop for the "The Courts" HipHop stage at the Malcolm X Jazz Arts Festival.

In honor of El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz (Malcolm X), the East Side Arts Alliance (ESAA) held the eighth Annual Malcolm X Jazz Arts Festival Saturday May 17 at San Antonio Park in East Oakland. Fusing music, arts and crafts, and dance there was something for all.

There were three stages for performers. On the main stage, Howard Wiley & the Freedom Now! Band, The John Santos Quintet, The Ambrose Akinmusire Project with Goapele, Muziki Roberson Quintet with Dwight Trible and Soul Nubian performed. Nearby on the second stage on top of a large flatbed truck, the organic sounds of oHairdoo could be heard.

For the youth and young at heart, "The Courts" transformed the park's tennis courts into a family fairground. The upper court showcased live graffitti murals from artists from the Bay to LA. The second level showcased local HipHop artists Nu Dekades, Lady Blue and Queen Deelah, Ray Ridah from DIRTY MACKIN', and the Trunk Boiz. DJ Treat U Nice, DJ Wazir, DJ Fuze kept the music pumping on the wheels of steel. Infamous Oakland turf dancers like the "Fresh Kids" were "doing it moving" on the floor.

The food court on the lower level featured soul food and a plantains, jerk chicken, and a "Taste of Africa."

ESAA is a collective of artists and activist of color who live in the San Antonio neighborhood. The festival is one of the last free festivals in Oakiand where people, young and old, can have a good time.

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