The US Census board writes: The number of veterans with a service-connected disability rating in 2014. Of this number, 1.1 million had a rating of 70 percent or higher. A “service-connected” disability is one that was a result of a disease or injury incurred or aggravated during active military service (census.gov 2015). Many of these vets suffer from “the gap” between the vets medical discharge, and when their VA benefits kick in. While in that gap these men and women have no funds to pay their bills, buy groceries, medicine, and housing. This number was way too high for KCXW President Jordan (Smiley) Rogers. So, on February 12, 2017 he opened his organization to sponsor an event: Wrestling
When I arrived at the venue the line was two blocks long. I passed the time talking to some of the fans about the show. I confessed that I had never seen Tech N9ne live before, and wanted to know what made him unique. One man said “There’s a lot of hype on stage, but that hype isn’t about him, he makes it about us.” One couple said “We’ve been coming to his shows for years. He doesn’t treat us like fans. We are family. He is one of us. We are heading to Springfield tomorrow to see him there”. Another told me “Tech is known globally, but he is from here. He goes out around KC a lot so we all have those ‘the day I met Tech N9ne days’” Other fans I spoke to shared the same sentiment. I’ve also
CES CRU, a hip-hop group hailing from Kansas City, Missouri, performed a remarkable set at the Granada in support of Tech N9ne. Their sound is captivating, unique, and addictive. Until January 20th, I had never heard of them. I was there to review Tech. I must admit, I was instantly engaged by their beats and lyrical cadence. It was a hell of a show. I take pride in the fact that most local music doesn’t get by me. Meaning, If I hadn’t heard the artist, I’ve heard OF them. Genre doesn’t apply. Independent and Local music of all styles tend to have a drive and passion that most headlining mainstream artists lack. That’s what makes them so enjoyable. They are as hungry to play for their audie
