Rhymefest (El Che)

Che "Rhymefest" Smith is the quintessential renaissance man as a father, husband, entrepreneur and artist. Inspired by his life experiences in a single-parent household, Che has blazed a new trail in art, music and social activism. In 2005, Che won a Grammy for co-writing the legendary hit record “Jesus Walks,” performed by his childhood friend Kanye West. He has served as co-writer on many of Kanye’s albums including Late Registration, Graduation, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy and Yeezus. He was nominated for a Grammy for "Best Rap Song" for his work on "New Slaves" on Yeezus. His writing credit doesn’t end there as he has also collaborated with Queen Latifah, Lil’ Jon, Dr. Luke and many other artists and producers. He has released two major studio albums Blue Collar and El Che selling hundreds of thousands of units around the world. Che has worked tirelessly to improve social and political conditions within his community including testifying before Congress pertaining to artist rights. He was the first and only rapper to meet with British Prime Minister David Cameron in Parliament to discuss the impact the hip hop community could have which resulted in a program called Hugs for Hoodies. In 2011, Che was the first rapper to ever run for city council in Chicago in one of the most impoverished and crime ridden neighborhoods in the country. After successfully defeating 3 other candidates, he narrowly lost to the incumbent. He continues to be active in local and national politics. Che has supported countless community organizations as a mentor and motivational speaker. In 2013, Rhymefest along with Kanye West launched Donda’s House Inc. to honor the educational legacy of Dr. Donda West (Kanye’s mother) by implementing arts and literature experiences that transform youth. Additionally, Che hosts his own radio show “Speak Up” on the historic WVON 1690 am every Monday from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. He is finalizing his third major studio album and first book Violence Is Sexy, with an expected release in the Summer of 2014. Violence is Sexy is an analysis of the pathology of American violence. It will be released with an anthology featuring some of America’s most provocative thought leaders. Che “Rhymefest” Smith believes "the only true power is the power to empower others." I'm the co-founder and creator of Donda's House Inc. Learn more about our work here: http://dondashouseinc.org