On September 27, 2025, The Preservatory held its 2nd Annual Hip-Hop Jam and Fundraiser at 303 Boards, The Annex, turning the shop and parking lot into a day long block party for the culture. The event landed in the middle of National Suicide Prevention Month, so from the moment the doors opened at 3:00 p.m., the focus was as much on mental wellness and community care as it was on beats, bars, and style.

All afternoon, families, teens, and longtime heads drifted between the live skate demo, food vendors, and walls in progress while DJs and MCs kept the energy steady. Breakers spun on the concrete, kids watched writers sketch outlines, and people caught up with friends they had not seen in years. As the sun went down and the crowd shifted to a 21 and over vibe, the space tightened into an intimate venue, with everyone pressed in close and ready for the headliners.

When Bahamadia stepped to the mic and DJ Eclipse dropped the first record, the Annex felt like a small club in the middle of a big city. Bahamadia’s voice cut through the air, sharp and calm at the same time, while Eclipse moved through deep cuts and classics. Between songs, hosts MC Dent and Ibe Hustles reminded the crowd why they were gathered, speaking openly about suicide, struggle, and the need to look out for one another.

Colorado Street Art Company worked behind the scenes to keep the visual side of the jam running smoothly. Our crew coordinated logistics with the artists, The Preservatory, and 303 Boards, handling paint procurement and organization, holding ladders, and managing cleanup so muralists could stay focused on their pieces. All day and into the night, we documented works in progress and finished walls, building an archive that will keep the spirit of the event visible long after the paint dried.

By the time the last track faded and people started rolling boards and packing gear, the jam had become more than a show. It felt like a reminder that hip-hop in Colorado is still a living, breathing support system, where music, graffiti, skating, and conversation can come together to push back against isolation and silence. The Preservatory’s fundraiser closed out with tired feet, fresh walls, and a community that left feeling a little more connected and a little more held.