DX News Bits: H.E.R. Hip Hop Showcase, Aliya Ewing, Hex Murda T-Shirts

The first annual H.E.R. Hip Hop Showcase will take place next month (4/9) at the New Earth Music Hall in Athens, Georgia.

Headlined by dead prez, the event is meant to “embody, both through music and image, the ideals that H.E.R. Hip Hop identifies as being characteristic of genuine Hip Hop.” Other acts on the bill include Kidz in the Hall, Donnis, WrittenHouse, and1ut the state of Hip Hop, as well as a mixer for people to connect with the events special guests. For more information on the event, as well as to purchase tickets, visit herhiphop.com.

In other news, former HipHopDX blogger/writer Aliya Ewing will be launching her new website myAliya.com next Monday (3/29).

Last November, Ewing stepped away from DX writing duties to focus on other ventures. However, after contemplating her decision to leave writing behind, she soon realized that her work as a creative individual was still just emerging.

“I couldn’t help but remember that musicians aren’t the only ‘artists’ in the world –that, in fact, there’s an ‘art’ to doing everything and anything, which makes us all artists. We are movie directors and actors, parents, dancers, chefs, inventors, scientists, entrepreneurs, activists, corporate workers, and, yes, we are journalists and writers too. How hypocritical was it for me to end my public platform without first developing and revealing my highest potential as well?”

Taking inspiration from the Hebrew meaning of her born name, which stands for “spiritual journey/ascension,” Aliya explained her site will expand beyond the focus of music. “The creative arts have the ability to bring together so many people –it’s transcendent. Music and art are huge parts of my personal Aliya, so that will be reflected in my website by hosting interviews with inspiring artists. I really hope people understand, and appreciate, what I’m trying to do.”

The premier interview for the website will be with Robin Hannibal, who performs as one-half of the Soul/fusion Danish duo Quadron.

Finally, a new website is offering t-shirts for sale to show support for Detroit entrepreneur Hex Murda.

Murda, who manages such acts as Black Milk and Elzhi, suffered a life-threatening stroke last September that caught the whole rap world by surprise. The next month, a benefit concert was held to raise money for his hospital expenses, with a limited edition t-shirt available that sold out in mere hours.

By popular demand, District 81 Clothing and Burn Rubber Sneaker Boutique have brought back the t-shirt [here], with three different designs available for purchase.

You can follow Hex Murda on Twitter here.