In it its relatively short existence, Wine & Rhyme has established itself as one of the most eclectic showcases of local and national talent in Tampa. Spearheaded by Bay area emcee Mike Mass, the monthly has taken over downtown eateries (and found a great home at Anise Global Gastrobar) as they welcome some of the area's best songwriters, rappers, DJs and even comedians to mix it up with a young, hip and open-minded audience of movers, shakers and art appreciators.
It's fitting that a staple of the Tampa hip-hop scene — Hansel Wilson aka Aych— will be headlining tonight's anniversary festivities. Da Cypher alum has even opened for Ludacris, Rick Ross and Wu-Tang Clan. Aych (pronounce it "H" like the letter) has been around for a minute (he was even on BET's 106 & Park, if you're an hold head) and has traveled the globe all on the strength of a flow that's made our hometown proud.<
We've got a feeling that Wine & Rhyme will be holding it down for Tampa Bay for years to come. Get more information on the show, and listen to the latest from Aych's Soundcloud page, below.
This article appears in Mar 30 – Apr 6, 2017.