Thug Life Army

Author Adisa Banjoko gathers Hip Hop artists, Rappers and Martial Artists for World's First "Hip Hop, Chess and Life Strategy" Exhibition & Tournament

Hip Hop artists, Rappers and Martial Artists will come Together to Teach Young People About the Power of Chess and Life Strategies at FREE Exhibition and Tournament.

Adisa Banjoko, creator of the Lyrical Swords book series is proud to announce the world’s first Hip-Hop & Chess exhibition and tournament event.  On February 23rd 2007, join Adisa and many others at the FREE Hip Hop, Chess & Life Strategy Charity Exhibition and Tournament.  This free event was inspired by Adisa Banjoko's desire to help empower today's youth through education and entertainment.    

Hip Hop and Rap artists, award winning martial arts champions and many others will be participating and volunteering their time for Bay Area youth. Scheduled to appear; DJ QBert, Yogafrog, Award winning director Kevin Epps “Straight Outta Hunters Point”, The Jacka, Jay the Butcher, DJ Kevvy Kev, Balance, T-K.A.S.H., Ise Lyfe, Izz Thizz, Starski, Davey D, Casual, Saafir, DJ Kevvy Kev, French Hip-Hop producer DJ Kool Side, battle MC Okwerz, Hip Hop Congress President Shamako Noble and some surprise guests. DJ Backside will be on hand to spin beats for the event. Some of the of martial artists attending include Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt Sergio Silva of Open Door Jiu Jitsu, 10th Planet Black Jiu Jitsu Brown Belt Denny Prokopos, Ralph Gracie Jiu Jitsu Black Belt Gumby from www.onthemat.com and many others.

“There are so many rappers who play chess, its mind blowing,” says Banjoko. “On February 23rd we’ll be showcasing to the world a more authentic intellectual side of who these men are, and what they can do. The children of today need to know how many options for success exist to help them to grow despite poverty, violence, broken families, and other factors surrounding them. We are going to show these kids that every obstacle can be overcome with the correct life strategy! Uplifting young minds is the sole reason for this event. We hope to have youth from every high school in the Bay Area participating.” Banjoko plans to host tournaments similar to these in other parts of the nation throughout the year.

Hip Hop Chess & Life Strategy exhibition and tournament will commence with teaching chess to the new players while experienced players can play a relaxed game with various rappers and martial artists. There will be tournaments between rappers and martial artist, as well as a tournament for the kids. Prizes will be awarded to participants in the youth tournament. Be prepared to see some surprise guest and observe what is sure to be some unforgettable grudge matches.

Hip-Hop historian Davey D stated, "My ultimate goal is to topple the entire Hiero squad." Davey D wants to actualize his dream of "putting the whole damn Hiero Imperium family in checkmate and rule the world."

Casual, from the legendary Hieroglyphics Crew is helping to coordinate the event. He also plans to participate. “I play chess often. I refer to my chess games in debate, at work, in dealing with record labels, the law and in negotiations. If you don’t play chess, you don’t stand a chance against me.”

Join Adisa Banjoko, DJ Qbert, Balance, The Jacka, Director Kevin Epps and more at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library @150 E. San Fernando Street San Jose, CA on February 23, 2007 from 4-8 PM.

*Sponsor Inquires:

Adisa Banjoko (408) 449.9810 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Media Contact: Shinken Public Relations

Veronica Cohen This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it