Many aspiring individuals seek fame and recognition in the music industry without realizing the importance of the team behind the spotlight. Those who support from the background play a crucial role in guiding larger dreams, serving as visionaries and connectors. The will to become not only a teacher but answer to an assignment that requires selflessness.
GQ Tha Teacha, a Brooklyn native based in Chicago, has been a guiding figure in the industry for many years. His passion for hip-hop has transformed Chicago’s hip-hop scene and given local artists the opportunity to display their talent in front of major hip-hop figures.
Although he plays the back, his contribution to Chicago Hip-hop is one that should be celebrated. In this article we give him his flowers.
After spending part of his childhood in Belize, he returned to the United States in the 1980s where he witnessed the evolution of hip-hop. Falling in love with the genre upon hearing KRS-One’s “Love’s gonna get ya”.
A passion stirring inside of him; he began to study the game. Following his move to Chicago in 1992, GQ became an intern for 106 Jamz, working under Chicago’s own Pink House. “Pink House was the don! Everybody knew Pink House! He took me under his wing, and he showed me the game,” said GQ. After his internship, he was promoted to the marketing and street promotions department, where he began to build his network.
The “Teacha” Embraces His Assignment:
His passion for hip-hop grew as he transitioned from working at 106 Jamz to Dr. Wax Records, ultimately developing a strong interest in emerging Chicago emcees. Leveraging his relationships with industry heavy weights, GQ became a bridge, godfather, and teacher. “GQ was my nickname, it stands for God’s quality. ‘Teacha’ came from my inspiration, KRS-One. I call myself the teacha because I try to teach the younger generation of artists what to expect in the music industry. I try to help them further their careers,” GQ emphasized.
Chicago is renowned for its “Crabs in a bucket mentality,” often criticized for the lack of support between artists and the industry. However, GQ has bridged the gap between young and old Emcees to dispel negative stereotypes. Collaborating with talents like Brittany Carter, Aasha Omega, and Freddie Old Soul, GQ has guided some of Chicago’s brightest talents.
Hip-hop is in a state of constant evolution, with a balance between commercial and authentic sound. The pioneers are embracing new sounds while preserving the genre’s purity and ensuring that its traditions are not lost. “It’s very important to me to show the younger generations about hip-hop. What I’m trying to do is unite the artists from my era and the newer generation. My main focus is unity, I want people from other cities to look at Chicago and know that we support each other.” says GQ.
As GQ builds community within the culture, he aims to challenge the OGs to be open-minded when supporting the sound of newer generations. “I try to show respect to the younger generation, like I might not be a fan of all the music y’all make but I respect it. Alot of artists from my era think we’re better than the new. I let them know if they want the younger generation to respect them, they have to show respect too.”
The mentioned songs, like “Hip-Hop Saved My Life” by Lupe Fiasco and “One Mic” by Nas, illustrate hip-hop’s power to save lives. This genre has a global impact, offering a platform for self-expression and financial opportunities. It has provided various privileges, whether in terms of money or community, ultimately saving many lives. GQ too finds solace in hip-hop despite facing kidney and heart failure.
Hip-hop is saving my life right now. You know, I could’ve just given up because of my health situation. I’m not working, so sometimes I get depressed. But then people come to me asking me to work different events, host panels and open mics— even what you and Bree did, reaching out to do this interview. This is saving my life now. This is hip-hop; that’s what’s saving my life right there. Just for people to reach out to me. Because that’s a part of hip-hop and community. – GQ Tha Teacha
CLASS IS IN SESSION:
In conclusion, GQ Tha Teacha aims to educate the new hip-hop generation to excel in their craft. Here are his top 5 strategies.
- Cultivate your circle: “For the new artists who are into music, I try to tell them that they have to have a circle of people around them. The people they have around them have to have the same type of vision and passion for music. Surround yourself with people who have the same vision as you. No yes men!”
- Get your ASCAP and BMI credentials
- Utilize social media as much as possible.
- Get a lawyer: “Before you sign any papers or contracts make sure you got an attorney”.
- Your network is your net worth.
