Hello, city

Whenever I write, I ask myself why the hell anyone should care what I think.

It occurs to me now that that very thought process is one reason unto itself.


Every single time I sit down to pen my weekly Block Clocker column for the Montreal Mirror, I start by asking myself that question. It isn't self-doubt, or self-awareness, but rather a rationale that I think distinguishes the degree of respect I actually have for anyone reading.

I write about hip hop and I love the shit. I cover the local scene and I believe in it. But I am a reporter first and foremost, so when I am by occassion greeted with snide remarks and mistrust, I get it, but I also keep in mind that I am lucky. I get to stand on the sidelines and watch. This is a relatively small city and it is hard not become close to the people I cover at times, but I am not embedded nor do I wish to be.

People (and not tons, but I'm sayin', enough to have made me think) have told me I am either too close to the scene, or not close enough. That is actually really encouraging feedback because it means that people aren't 100% sure where I stand. I like that. You aren't supposed to be.

With this blog I wish to continue and expand my coverage of hip hop, the city, and the people in it, and also give myself a chance to talk about what happens between us and in between us. This is not a hip hop blog, strictly. It is not an arts blog, strictly. It is not a news blog, strictly. It is just another voice, which is what I am, and what we all are.

I'll just give you reason to listen mine, whether you like it or not. Promise.