Milwaukee Public Library writes new chapter with rap battle.

Reel 360 — October 18, 2019

By Colin Costello

When you think of a public library, what names come to mind? For the Reel 360 team it’s authors such as Stephen King, Ernest Hemingway an JK Rowling. Not Big Meech Big Pharma, Richie Buz or Tryna Make It.

Guess that’s what happens when a library, a pantheon of famous and not-so-famous authors welcomes authors of THE 21st century – rappers.

Last night, The Milwaukee Public Library did just that, as it held the MPL Rap Battle. Taking a page out of Eminem’s 8-Mile, the pro-bono campaign created by Cramer-Krasselt, is a part of” Library Loud Days.”

According to a spokeswoman from the agency, the goal of the program is to reinvigorate and welcome more members of the community to area branches through unique events that turn the typical “shhh” experience of the library on its head.

Every year, C-K’s Milwaukee office helps to develop and execute a marquee event as part of the larger series that takes place throughout the library system. This year, they clearly thought out of the book bin when it came to this.

To launch the event, Hip Hop artists from around the area submitted original songs. The the top eight contestants were chosen by public polling and got to perform their music live in front of a panel of music professionals WebsterX, DJ Loop and IshDARR along with the MC of the event DJ Bizzon.

In addition to the contestants, IshDARR also gave a performance of his own.

The winner, RP Vic, received $1,000 and the opportunity to perform on Milwaukee’s radio station, 88nine’s 414Live, with a cash prize involved. Have a look:

“I thought the event was awesome! It was an evening of Milwaukee supporting our youth who were able to share their talent live with the community,” said Gwendolyn Long, Library Marketing Specialist. She also noted, “Attendees were able to sign up for a library card, be reminded to register to vote at any MPL location, and simply witness that their library has amazing resources and programming to offer – such as a Rap Battle! It was humbling to see each of the finalists support one another throughout the event. Overall, the Rap Battle shows how important it is to support one another as individuals with the support of the community. For all of the finalists, it was a great opportunity for exposure, networking, and building their portfolios.”

In addition to developing the campaign and creating the materials for Library Loud Days, C-K gives each event their own unique creative look and feel.

The team designs and creates every element—from ads and social posts to t-shirts, posters, stickers and more. Past events have included a Mexican Wrestling event, concerts and a Halloween scream contest.

No word on who won, but be sure that Reel 360 is down with the MPL.