'F' you. Pay me.

Was just reading through the Brooklyn Paper and saw that the GZA is playing a benefit for the Pool Parties at McCarren pool. It struck me as odd that a hip-hop act would serve as the headliner for a party known for indie rock. Is there something about GZA's brand that I missed. Is he a logical choice after a line of Billyburg faves?

I love the GZA. 'Liquid Swords' is right up there with the best Wu solos. Next to 'Ironman' and 'Cuban Linx.'

I know the guys at Jelly. We share a sponsor/benefactor/partner in the Brooklyn Brewery. I know there are some hip-hop heads in that operation. After last year I thought there would be a natural connection that for one reason or another never materialized. Their company and the Bodega both represent cutting edge creativity and free programming.

It would seem that some artist on Domino would be who you pick to earn for you.

Free programming all summer for 90 lb hipsters. New Era caps crowd - $19 please.

Got me thinking and I took a look at the pinacle of free concerts in the City, Summerstage.
They too hold benefits to offset their costs. Of the four benefits this year one was Common and Joss Stone, the other was Gnarls Barkley. Of the 20 other events I saw on their calendar there were maybe 3 events with Hip-Hop talent and that is stretching it as some of the talent stretches the definition.

Why so little focus on Hip-Hop during the course of your annual free programming. And so much focus on Hip-Hop when it's time to earn.

-Hip-Hop's undeniable power in the marketplace?

-Overpriced performance fees that prohibit a free ticket?

-A lack of respect for the culture except when you can cash in?

-A chance to make money that can't be passed up?

What do y'all think?