To commemorate our almost 7 year of existence the Hard Knock Records crew has decided to re-release the first album that we ever put out "What About Us?" We hope that you agree with us when we say that the music on our first compilation is still very much relevant to what is going on today!

HARD KNOCK RECORDS PRESENTS “WHAT ABOUT US?”

A HIP HOP COMPILATION THAT SETS OUT TO EXPOSED THE CONSEQUENCES OF WAR AND HOW IT AFFECTS OUR COMMUNITIES.

Featuring: Michael Franti & Spearhead, Blackalicious, Zion I, Abstract Tribe Unique, The Frontline, Raashan, Non Prophets, Rico Pabon, Hobo Junction, The Piper, Cool Nuts f/Bosko and Many more!!!

Oakland, CA - Hard Knock Records has just released the highly anticipated album "What About US". The compilation is a critical response by the Hip Hop community to what has taken place since the tragedies of September 11th. "The concept behind the creation of the album is in the title "What About US?" states Executive Producer Nick Huff. "The media portrays the Hip Hop generation as apathetic and materialistic but never supports artist that have something to say about what is going on in their communities."

When asked why most of the Hip Hop community is critical of the wars in the Middle East Nick responds: "Because we know that the majority of the consequences of the war will affect our communities the greatest. The Billions of dollars, possibly Trillions before it's all over, that are being spent on the defense budgets are not coming from taxes to the rich or from corporations because they are getting their taxes cut to "Stimulate the Economy". The bulk of that money is coming from programs that actually need the money the most like public education, after school programs, childcare for low income families, Medicare. These programs which our communities need the most are the ones taking the biggest cuts because we don't have lobbyist to speak for US. Is this what president Bush meant when he promised to leave no child behind?"

Hip Hop Pioner and activist Davey D sets the tone for the compilation in the intro by stating, "When you listen to this album "What About US?" keep in mind that we finally get to put our perspectives out there. That's the perspective of young people, the perspective of young people of color, all those individual folks who come from all different backgrounds who were absent at the table when they were calling all these experts to tell us why we need to go and engage in the different wars and pass various laws for the security of this country. The things that have been prescribed by the people in leadership are not the only solutions and so on this album you will hear the perspective and solutions offered from a whole lot of other people, who I think make the majority of this country."

A PORTION OF THE PROCEEDS FROM THIS ALBUM WILL BE DONATED TO YOUTH SPEAKS AND THE KPFA APRENTICESHIP PROGRAM.