Driven by his motto, “true power is the power to empower others,” Che “Rhymefest”
Smith is a writer, artist, political organizer and teacher, shattering negative stereotypes
about Hip-Hop and establishing himself as a positive role model.
In 2005, Rhymefest won a Grammy for co-writing the mega-hit “Jesus Walks” with his
childhood friend, Kanye West. In 2006, he released his critically-acclaimed “Blue Collar”
album and shortly after that, became the first rapper to meet in the British House of
Commons when David Cameron invited him to discuss Hip-Hop and policy.
A dedicated community leader, social and political organizer, Rhymefest ran for
Chicago’s City Council in one of Chicago’s most violent neighborhoods in 2011, and after
pushing the incumbent into a run-off and defeating four candidates, he lost by a narrow

margin. In 2013, Rhymefest, together with his wife, founded Donda’s House, a non-
profit that provides artist & youth development. Donda’s House has served over 500

youth with free instruction and continues to be a force for creative change.
In 2015, Rhymefest won a Critics Choice award, a Golden Globe and an Academy Award
for “Glory”, his collaboration with John Legend and Common for the film, Selma. Also in
2015, Rhymefest added model to his impressive resume, when Kenneth Cole selected
him to be featured in his “Courageous Class” campaign. Che earned his second Grammy
for his work on “Glory” in 2016.
In the Fall of 2016, Che was selected as one of Chicago Magazine’s Chicagoans of the

Year. Che stars alongside Alec Baldwin, Taylor Shilling, and more in the Emilio Estevez-
directed film, The Public. Additionally, Che is slated to release a new musical project in collaboration with DJ Jazzy Jeff.

From AMS the MC/Host to DJ Vadar Wins to Seek the Great the computer guru check out everyone’s favorite host on the decks this evening! DJ Vadar Wins from Ninja Church, Boogie Knightz, and Floor Lovers Crew!