For our latest Artist on the Rise segment I’d like to present to you one of Southern California’s best kept secrets, ESTA. With an eclectic, soulful and atimes nostalgic take on producing music, this beat maker certainly has the talent to be the next big thing.

After giving his music a few plays it’s obvious to see the San Diego native was greatly inspired by the late, great J. Dilla. However, what really impressed was how much more relateable Esta’smusic was. Just as J.Dilla was ale to speak through his beat pattern’s to the generation before, so too does Esta continue thr conversation with the listener of today. Picking up the ball, right where Dilla left off. Dilla still lives on, that’s the beauty of music.

It’s exciting to see that music, life and a passion for beats haven’t died. I’m looking forward to see Esta’s career develop and see where Hip-Hop takes him. For more music, make sure to visit his website.

Yesterday we had the chance to check out the launch event for Through The Mic at the LACMA.  Murs, who used to ditch class to go hang out at the LACMA, is the co-curator of the concert series.  Through The Mic is meant to showcase LA’s contemporary Hip-Hop scene, but Murs also hopes that this will give people a chance to experience everything the museum has to offer.

We were able sit in on the press conference with Murs before the show started.  Murs is so much more than just the music he makes.  Whether it’s Paid Dues Festival or now putting Hip-Hop on the platform of fine art, Murs gets it and is opening a lot of doors for people.  That also includes Orisue.  The first event we ever vended at was the first Paid Dues Festival years ago.  People still tell us to this day that that is where they first heard of Orisue.

We also got to hear from Jason Gaulton from LACMA who helped bring Through The Mic to fruition.

The concert stage is right in front of the iconic Urban Lights sculpture.  Definitely one of the illest backdrops I’ve seen in awhile.

Just like that 3MG are back!  Murs, Eligh & Scarub reunite on stage together before each rockin’ the crowd with solo sets.

Energy was crazy!  Did you know Murs could get up like that?  You would have if you’ve seen him perform.

Bumped into a few friends at the show as well.  Big ups to everyone at 5th Element Mag.

The F!  Fashawn was in the spot, and he also has a project with Murs about to drop, stay tuned!

Our buddies Todd & Peter.  Peter’s been down with Orisue since day 1!  Great seeing you guys.

Special thanks to our friends at Cashmere Agency!  Also check me out in the Rackson Henley Tee.  Chambray collar detail, clean and simple.  Remember Summer Delivery 1 goods drop this Monday 05/21!

Thanks LACMA, we’ll be back!

Photos by Amanda Martinez

The Los Angeles Contemporary Museum of Art is kicking off an interesting series of performances set to offer a platform for contemporary Los Angeles talent to showcase their craft while continuing to break down preconceived notions that Gangsta-Rap is all the coast has to offer.

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