The Chicago Journal

The Chicago Journal
The Chicago Journal

Christian Rapper DPB: Positivity in the Face of Adversity

The Chicago Journal Staff on July 15, 2024

David Paul Brooks, widely known as DPB, is a dynamic force in the music industry, embodying the roles of positive rap artist, songwriter, actor, clothing designer, mentor, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur. As the Co-Founder and Co-Owner of BreBro International Group LLC and DPB Muzik Inc., DPB’s mission is to offer an alternative and innovative message in music, mainly aimed at youth, to help them overcome life’s challenges through relatable art.

DPB’s illustrious career includes sharing the stage with iconic artists like Bootsy Collins, Salt ‘n Pepa, Kool Moe Dee, Kirk Franklin, Yolanda Adams, King & Country, Unspoken, Toby Mac, Anointed, Deion Sanders, and Canton Jones. He has also graced television screens with appearances on shows like BET’s Teen Summit Gospel Special. A former member of D.O.C. (Disciples of Christ), a Grammy and Dove-nominated group, DPB has made significant strides as a solo artist. His track “Brighter Day” became part of the Billboard Christian Rock Radio National Airplay chart, and his song “Feels So Good Today” was a standout, being added twice on the Billboard charts. His song “GODMODE” was part of the Urban Influencer Christian Hip Hop chart, and “Let It Go” joined the same chart in April 2023. Most recently, his single, “Undefeated 3.0 (radio edit)” hit the National Radio Hits AC and Christian charts, and his single, “I Feel So Good Today (Happy Mix),” is currently climbing on both.

DPB’s ministry and music have reached international audiences, allowing him to teach, minister, and motivate globally. His impact is evident through his role as the Hip Hop worship leader at “The Basement,” the largest youth ministry in Birmingham, AL, which attracted over 8,000 youths weekly. Similar movements in cities like Albuquerque, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Tennessee, and Vermont have benefited from his dynamic leadership. DPB has fostered long-standing relationships with pastors in cities such as Chicago, Minneapolis, Fargo, Baltimore, Winchester, TN, Niles, and Benton Harbor, MI, annually bringing his ministry to youth in these regions.

In addition to his musical endeavors, DPB has developed school programs addressing character education issues such as peer pressure, bullying, making the right choices, and respect, aligning with the US Department of Education’s initiatives. His community involvement includes the “Party In the Park” program, which brings his ministry to neglected areas across the US, offering free food, prize giveaways, music, and special sporting events to foster community fellowship. Collaborating with the Fargo, ND police department, DPB co-created “Fargo United,” a program that unified the city of Fargo through community events.

DPB, alongside his business partner and best friend Brent Beck, established BreBro International Group LLC, an umbrella corporation with 13 subsidiaries covering music, video, merchandise, apparel, ministry, jewelry, shoes, outreach, and more. DPB Muzik Inc., their record label, aims to support and promote Christian and gospel artists, reinvigorating these genres in both religious and secular markets.

DPB and Brent were called to Cincinnati this year to create “The Plug (People Living Under God),” the world’s largest youth movement. The initiative launched in January, reaching over 82 million US homes with its first event. Working with Ouiwey Collins, son of Bootsy Collins, DPB and Brent are securing a TV network, Sirius/XM radio broadcast, and a Roku channel to take The Plug global, with plans for satellite locations across the US.

DPB Muzik Inc. is set to release a new album, “Undefeated 3.0,” which will showcase DPB’s exceptional talent as a composer, writer, and artist. The album promises hits and includes a mini-movie and a groundbreaking picture book chronicling DPB’s 30-plus years of ministry.

DPB has received numerous accolades, including nominations from the Birmingham Area Music Awards for Best Gospel/Christian Artist and the Urban Inspiration Awards for Best Hip Hop Artist. He was among the most requested artists on Christian Net in 2018 and 2019. DPB’s approach to music is not just about entertainment; it’s about transformation, profoundly impacting listeners’ lives.

DPB’s journey is a testament to the power of music as a vehicle for positive change. His commitment to spreading hope, joy, and faith through his artistry resonates with audiences worldwide, solidifying his place as a pivotal figure in positive rap and Christian music. Welcome to the world of DPB Muzik Inc., where music meets ministry in a powerful, transformative way.

Published by: Nelly Chavez

Chicago: No Longer a Small Town Name

The Chicago Journal Staff on July 15, 2024

Chicago’s vibrant cultural tapestry shimmered with even greater intensity during the Diaspora Kings and Queens African Exchange event, a celebration that honors the rich heritage and enduring spirit of the Global African Diaspora. Among the illustrious performers was Thomas Ware, whose soulful melodies and rhythmic beats captivated the audience, echoing the event’s theme of “Restoring the Royalty.”

The Exchange event, held from June 22nd through June 24th, was a confluence of culture, music, and unity. It was a platform where the diaspora’s past and present intertwined, creating a space for reflection, recognition, and rejoicing. Thomas Ware’s performance stood out as a beacon of artistic expression, embodying the event’s mission to bridge the gap between Continental Africa and its diaspora.

Ware’s music, a blend of traditional African sounds and contemporary influences, resonated with the attendees, many of whom found a piece of their ancestral homeland in his tunes. His performance was not just entertainment; it was a narrative woven into the fabric of the African experience, a story told through chords and choruses.

The event also featured a panel discussion on the impact of colonialism and slavery on the mental health of global blacks, with speakers like Dr. Umar Ifatunde providing insights into the historical and cultural connections that shape the community’s collective psyche.

As the event unfolded, the air was thick with the spirit of Juneteenth, a reminder of the journey traveled and the paths yet to be explored. The crowning of African Diaspora Kings and Queens by Ghanaian royalty was a poignant moment, symbolizing the unbroken link between Africa and its children scattered across the globe.

Thomas Ware’s performance at the Diaspora Kings and Queens African Exchange event was more than just a musical act; it was a tribute to the enduring legacy of Africa and its people. It was a reminder that music is a universal language, one that transcends borders and unites hearts. And in the heart of Chicago, Ware’s music did just that—unite, uplift, and inspire.

Thomas Ware’s Chicago Adventure: A Guest Appearance on “Boutique Baddies”

Thomas Ware, the musician, celebrated for his soulful sounds and dedication to mental health advocacy, and made a notable visit to Chicago. His trip was highlighted by a special guest appearance on the popular reality show “Boutique Baddies,” where he infused the program with his unique blend of entertainment and heartfelt inspiration.

“Boutique Baddies,” known for showcasing the vibrant and diverse facets of Chicago’s entertainment landscape, embraced Ware as a guest, introducing a distinct musical element to its usual fare. The episode with Ware was a harmonious mix of frank dialogue, shared laughter, and spontaneous performances, highlighting his multifaceted talents as both an artist and a public figure.

On the show, Ware opened up about his musical voyage, his fervent commitment to mental health causes, and the deep-seated narratives within his most moving compositions. He underscored the significance of music as a therapeutic medium and its remarkable ability to forge connections among individuals from all walks of life.

The episode’s standout moment was undoubtedly Ware’s acoustic session, during which he delivered renditions of his popular tracks in their most unadorned and poignant form. His performance was not merely a delight for the senses but also a soothing experience for the soul, striking a chord with the show’s viewers and extending its reach.

Ware’s stint on “Boutique Baddies” transcended the bounds of a mere TV appearance; it served as a platform for him to disseminate his optimistic message of healing through the universal language of music. As he departed from Chicago, he left a lasting impression with his melodic legacy and a powerful reminder that life’s rhythms offer both meaning and a sense of shared humanity.

Thomas Ware’s sojourn in Chicago and his participation in “Boutique Baddies” constituted a memorable episode in his continuous endeavor to harness music as a catalyst for positive change, affirming the influential role of the arts in nurturing community bonds and mutual understanding.

Published by: Holy Minoza