Saturday night at The Metro was a Joyous expression of the strength, resilience, and power of the women of Chicago Hip Hop. The WBEZ/Vocalo/Young Chicago Authors Winter Block Party showcased female artists and musicians in Chicago for the 9th year of this ongoing festival.

The Metro stage was graced by Bebe O’hare, Ang 13, Lin-Z, Medicine Woman, Kaina, Jamila Woods and even Chance the Rapper for an affordable ticket that allowed anyone to view this talented showcase. During these times the overall theme of Unity felt incredibly fitting, and completely shone through in every act. It may be difficult to watch the turmoil going on in the news, but this felt like a beautiful reminder that Chicago can come together as one.

After the opening acts the collective Medicine Woman took the stage. Three female artists all performing as one symbolic woman. It was another poignant reminder of the unity in this musical movement. Via Rosa, Jean Deaux and Drea Smith came together as one to perform original music that was nothing short of empowering and inspiring. Though missing a member in Ravyn Lenae, the collective as one idea still rang true, and the presented as one strong and powerful woman.

They were followed by the lively Kaina, whose soul and R&B jams electrified the crowd. Performing with her full band including The Burns Twins, Kamaria Woods, Paige Pohlad, Sam Veren, Boyang Matsapola, and Andrew Belaus, all of whom have performed with other notable Chicago acts such as Ric Wilson, and The O’my’s, and Malcolm London, a POD favorite. Their energy was completely in sync as they crafted their signature sound for a crowd that was aching to dance away the stress of January 2017. Ending on a powerful song dedicated to her Mother, they truly embodied the spirit of the night.

Finally Jamila Woods came to cap off a night of love, inspiration, and empowerment with her own soul and R&B originals. Playing many of the songs from her debut album HEAVN, she presented as a strong female of color that is not afraid to back down from her beliefs. VRY BLK was an early standout that set the tone for the rest of her set.

The most surprising moment came when none other than Chicago’s very own Hip Hop Ambassador, Chance The Rapper popped onto the stage to perform the HEAVN standout “LSD“, Jamila’s ode to Lake Shore Drive. They are frequent collaborators and it just added to the true feeling of Chicago Unity. All of these artist are coming together to create an amazing time in Chicago, not only for music, but for youth, Women, and People of Color.

Jamila continued to rock the stage for the rest of the night, not to be out shined.

This was a night of wonderment. It would be difficult to not be inspired by the amount of talent, pride and togetherness displayed by the entire lineup. This is truly a renaissance period in our city, and it’s one that we all can and should be a part of.

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