The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter

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.


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The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). 

Host: Rob Lee
Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.
Production:
  • Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel Alexis
  • Edited by Daniel Alexis
  • Show Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and Transistor
Photos:
  • Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.
  • Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.
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Creators and 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 The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter?

The Truth In This Art with Rob Lee is a Baltimore-based arts and culture podcast where independent journalist Rob Lee goes beyond the highlight reel to uncover the truth behind the workβ€”the creative process, the choices, and the stories that shape the people who make it.

This podcast features thoughtful conversations with emerging and established photographers, filmmakers, designers, musicians, chefs, writers, and other creative voices. Each episode explores how artists build sustainable practices, stay connected to their communities, and create work that reflects the world around them. More than interviews, these are stories about what it takes to build a creative lifeβ€”the challenges, choices, and experiences that make art matter.

For makers, culture lovers, and the creatively curious