Article by KayJay
Contact: Designsbykayjay@gmail.com

People frequently say that Columbus has an abundant amount of talent just waiting to break through. The Ohio Hip Hop Awards are perfect for the break-through opportunity any artist, designer, or model is waiting for. The nominations give nods to everything from Best Group, Best New Artist, Best Model, Best Designer, Best Media Outlet, Best Retail, Best Graphic Designer, and more. Anyone who puts their heart and soul into a craft definitely does it for moments like these; and from looking at the Official Voters Ballot it’s easy for anyone to tell exactly HOW much talent is in the city. Let’s take a look at Columbus at work.

For “Best Clothing Designer”, Columbus-born brands Akira Takashi and JWORK Limited were both nominated. Street Smart Productions snagged a nomination for “Promoter of the Year”, while Columbus rapper Cridie Mac got a “Best Album” nod for his album, “There’s Only 1 King”. Continuing with music, Elevator Music producer Rashad got nominated for “Best Producer” along with B. Banga; both of which have worked with large-named artists across the country. Rashad got a second nomination when Fly Union got recognized for “Gold Chain on Credit (Fat Gold Chain)” as “Single of the Year”. Both The 3rd (also of Elevator Music) and Fly Union continued their recognition and were also both nominated for “Best Group”.

Columbus’ Radio Station, 107.5 WCKX was nominated for “Best Radio Station”, and City was nodded for “Best Radio Personality”. Internationally known J. Rawls was nominated for “Best Show Host”; and clubs like Icon, BOMA, and Club Ice snagged “Best Night Club”. And last but certainly not least, the Fly Paper family also is in the running for “Best Media Outlet!” Did you think we would write this blog for nothing?

The Ohio Hip Hop Awards & Music Conference will be held the weekend of September 18 – 20, 2009 in Cleveland, Ohio. Anyone interested in attending can purchase tickets at any Ticketmaster outlet, or by visiting www.ticketmaster.com. Most importantly, we are challenging our readers to stand up and help Columbus GET HEARD! For a complete listing of all nominees, visit www.ohiohiphopawards.com. And while you’re there be sure to vote for FLY PAPER and everyone else who is your favorite. Vote now and often!