When I tell you that this year’s “Think Different Tribute Jam” presented by legendary Maryland-born MC, Substantial, and hosted by DMV wordsmith Black Root was A TIME, that is no exaggeration. Once again, we came together to celebrate the legacies of pioneering Hip Hop producers Nujabes, Monorisick, and the 25th anniversary of Substantial’s landmark debut album, To This Union A Sun Was Born – so sorry you missed this moment, but I’ll do my best to fill you in. 🙃

Initially scheduled for Friday, February 6, 2026, the event was rescheduled due to weather and other factors. Everything that happened between that time and the new show date could make up a season of Curb Your Enthusiasm, no lie, but with perseverance and mettle, we made it happen…and you know what? It was all worth it.

From the opening performances from Javier Starks, Orion Song, Malcolm Jackson, and B-Boys GQ and Sykes, to the Black Root freestyling masterclass, and Sub rocking with his band, The Sun’s Hues (myself on vocals, A.J. Rios on drums & guitar, Lizzie Blue on keys, special guest Malik Hunter on bass, and Malcolm Jackson on vibes/percussion), the vibe was on one hundred. Live visual art was also in the building, provided, yet again, by the talented Shani Shih, and we even had a moment when a mourning dove flew into the venue while we were performing “Ain’t No Happy Endings” to the tune of Kendrick Lamar’s “Sing About Me” – a fan affectionately named our feathered guest “Nujabird”. 😂

It’s really impossible to truly describe how amazing this evening was, so here’s a collection of the videos I could gather up to paint the best picture of this special night for you, so enjoy!