Hip-Hop Week MKE to host voter registration at Juvenile concert

Hip-Hop Week MKE plans a voter registration event at The Rave on October 3. The initiative coincides with Juvenile’s concert, featuring his 400 Degreez Band. Alderman Russell W. Stamper II coordinates the event with several partners, including The Rave, Milwaukee Public Library, and the Office of African American Affairs. Doors open at 7 p.m., with the show starting at 8 p.m. Mannie Fresh will open for Juvenile.

Stamper emphasizes the importance of the upcoming November 5 Fall General Election, urging all eligible voters to participate. “Every vote is important, and every voter makes a difference!” Stamper states. Juvenile, born Terius Gray in New Orleans, rose to prominence in the late 1990s. His breakthrough came with the 1997 album “Solja Rags,” released through Cash Money Records. This began his collaboration with producer Mannie Fresh, who would produce most of Juvenile’s subsequent albums on the label.

In 1998, Juvenile released his most successful album, “400 Degreez”. The album peaked at number nine on the Billboard 200 and achieved quadruple platinum certification. It spawned hit singles like “Ha” and “Back That Azz Up,” which became Juvenile’s first entries on the Billboard Hot 100. According to The New York Times, “Back That Azz Up” popularized twerking nationwide and became a cultural phenomenon. The song, now celebrating its 25th anniversary, remains a defining track in hip-hop history.

To register at the event, Milwaukee residents must meet specific requirements. These include U.S. citizenship, 18 years old by Election Day, and 28 days of Wisconsin residency. Voters need proof of residence to register. Acceptable documents include a Wisconsin driver’s license or a recent utility bill. Online and mail registration closes 20 days before Election Day. In-person registration remains available through Election Day.

Former Common Council member Khalif J. Rainey, Hip-Hop Week’s founder, also assists with event organization. Rainey now directs the Office of African American Affairs. Combining a legendary hip-hop artist and voter registration efforts highlights the event’s dual focus on entertainment and civic engagement.