“A lot of people suggest, and have advised, that trying to promote anything involving Asian American men, in any capacity, is bound to failure. We’re through with such pessimism – we’re leaving, on a jet plane, for a microphone near you,” Bao Phi wrote in an email announcing the launch of the tour.

More Asian Americans are turning to hip-hop and spoken word as a means of self expression, so it’s only right that three of the most vocal and active artists from both of these art forms embark on this journey. Each of the artist-activists hail from different regions where they’ve gained loyal support for their art and work in their communities – Phi from Minneapolis, Li from Boston and Kiwi representing L.A. and the Bay Area.

The Beats, Rhymes and Rice tour will weave spoken word and hip-hop throughout their set. I haven’t seen Bao Phi or Giles Li live but if former Native Gunner Kiwi endorses them, then they must be dope; he’s one of the most humble, positive and revolutionary emcees, getting crowds hyped off his energetic performance.

But so far, the trio has only booked two dates, rocking a show at the University of Central Florida on October 17, with the next confirmed date set for November 8 at Northwestern University in Boston.

Though they're building a buzz and getting strong support, if they're to truly alter assumptions of Asian American men, they're gonna need to rock as many venues across the country as they can. Let's hope they do.

For more info about the tour and booking info, visit:
www.baophi.com
www.myspace.com/kiwi
www.gilesli.com