Shaolin Jazz: Exploring the Fusion of Hip-Hop, Jazz, and Martial Arts

Welcome to the Truth in This Art. I'm your host, Rob Lee, and I’m thrilled to be in conversation with my next guests: Gerald Watson and DJ 2-Tone Jones from Shaolin Jazz. Shaolin Jazz, co-founded by Gerald Watson and DJ 2-Tone Jones, produces content and events that highlight the parallels between Hip-Hop, Jazz, and Martial Arts. Learn how the two turned a mutual admiration of Wu-Tang Clan and Jazz into a mixtape, event series and so much more.

Join us as we discuss:

• An exciting exploration of the interconnected worlds of hip-hop, jazz, and martial arts as Shaolin Jazz curates mesmerizing events and content that draw attention to their fascinating parallels.
• One-of-a-kind event series titled "Can I Kick It?" where classic martial arts movies blend seamlessly with the captivating beats of DJ 2-Tone Jones' live music. Expect a truly immersive and unforgettable experience!
• How Shaolin Jazz has gracefully adapted to the challenges posed by COVID-19, pivoting to digital events while continuing to deliver their mission of offering unique and engaging experiences to audiences worldwide. Embrace the innovative ways they've found to keep the magic alive in the virtual realm.

Gerald Watson and DJ 2-Tone Jones discuss their creative platform, Shaolin Jazz, which explores the connections between hip-hop, jazz, and martial arts. They create events and content that highlight these parallels, including live music performances and the event series "Can I Kick It?". They talk about how COVID-19 has forced them to pivot to digital events and the importance of finding outlets for creativity during these challenging times. They also share their favorite martial arts movies and hip-hop/jazz albums.

Mentioned in this episode

Gerald Watson and DJ 2-Tone Jones.  from Shaolin Jazz.

🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧

This program is supported (in part) by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation.

If you have a story about art, culture, or community, share it with us at [e-mail] for a chance to be featured on 'The Truth In This Art' podcast.

Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart

Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard.

Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art.

About "The Truth In This Art"

"The Truth In This Art," hosted by Rob Lee, is a podcast that explores the essence of creativity and its community impact, amplifying artists' voices and their profound stories.

Connect with me:

Website | Twitter | Instagram 

Support the show:

Merch from Redbubble | Make a Donation 

★ Support this podcast ★

Creators & Guests

Host

Rob Lee

The Truth In This Art is an interview series featuring artists, entrepreneurs and tastemakers in & around Baltimore.

Guest

DJ 2-Tone Jones

DJ | Tastemaker | Co-founder of SHAOLIN JAZZ

Guest

Gerald Watson

Co-Founder SHAOLIN JAZZ

What is Truth In This Art Podcast - Your Source for Conversations with Artists, Innovators & Cultural Leaders?

Hosted by Rob Lee, the 'Truth In This Art Podcast' explores how art influences society and personal growth through engaging interviews with artists and cultural leaders from Baltimore and beyond. This podcast offers insights into the creative process and the impact of the arts on communities, making it ideal for artists, art enthusiasts, and creative thinkers interested in the transformative power of art.