Beats and ballots are colliding this Sunday as some of Hip-Hop’s most influential voices unite for the Ras for Governor DJ Marathon. The event is a five-hour livestream bonanza designed to energize voters and build support for Ras Baraka’s run for New Jersey governor.
Kicking off at 7 p.m. sharp on Sunday, June 8, the virtual marathon will stream live via @AllHipHop’s Instagram and the official AllHipHop.com website. The event was curated by Channel Live’s Hakim Green, Roc Nation engineer Young Guru and AllHipHop co-founder Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmur. There will be music, movement and political momentum into one powerful night.
The lineup reads like a Hip-Hop hall of fame. DJ D-Nice, Chuck D, Eric B and Young Guru will be among the turntable generals spinning exclusive sets. Appearances include Marlon Wayans, Mysonne Linen, Vinnie Brown of Naughty by Nature, journalist Touré and a mix of cultural icons.
The mission is to mobilize the masses ahead of the June 10 primary and uplift a candidate many believe stands at the intersection of culture, community and real political change.
“When we talk about what we want—leaders that represent us properly, that come from where we come from, that have the same core values—he is the epitome of that,” activist and rapper Mysonne Linen said. “He stands on business, he’s fair, he’s honest, he’s culturally relevant, and he identifies with what’s going on in the streets.”
Vinnie Brown echoed the urgency: “We need politicians like Ras, who are on the front lines, who know how the system works and can interpret and articulate it back to our community in a way that we can understand.”
Baraka, currently serving as mayor of Newark, has earned widespread respect for blending progressive politics with communal authenticity. For many in Hip-Hop, his background as a poet, educator and son of revolutionary writer Amiri Baraka makes him more relatable and also qualified for higher office.
“Ras Baraka is not just a typical politician who seeks to hold power, but someone who seeks to empower others,” Creekmur said. “He doesn’t just tow the line—he holds the line.”
Hakim Green laid it plain: “As we see powers in high places openly oppressing the little guy, the people of New Jersey need an openly progressive governor with a history of fighting back.”
Baraka’s gubernatorial platform reflects his commitment to economic justice, healthcare access, and housing equity. His key initiatives include:
- Housing for All: 200,000 new affordable homes created through modern zoning reforms and direct subsidies for first-time homeowners.
- Transportation Upgrades: Transit-focused development and infrastructure improvements, with a promise of no new fees for working families.
- Economic Empowerment: Raising the minimum wage, launching a state-backed public bank, and expanding grants and loan relief for New Jersey’s student population.
- Healthcare as a Right: Expanding state insurance programs, capping hospital costs, and driving down medical expenses for everyday residents.
Whether you’re on the block or behind a screen, Sunday night offers a clear signal—Hip-Hop is stepping up and showing out for Ras Baraka.
Primary Election Day in New Jersey is Tuesday (June 10). The DJ Marathon goes live Sunday (June 8) from 7 p.m. to midnight on Instagram (@AllHipHop) and AllHipHop.com.
Related
