About The Baltimore Scene & The Baltimore Crown Awards

The Baltimore Scene, established in 2006, is a grassroots community movement that has had the huge pleasure of connecting, honoring, celebrating, developing and promoting Baltimore's multi-generational arts, activism and entrepreneurial scene through hundreds of events, initiatives and movements over the last 18 years. We look forward to being in service to this beautiful city for countless more! In addition to spreading love, joy and community building, our mission is to make Baltimore synoymous with the genius and beauty here. When attempting to describe our work, we find that our beautiful community does it better that we could. Below are some of their messages we have received. Thank you so much Baltimore for allowing us to be of service. - hugs

“Last night was the best event that I have ever been to. I met so many legends! The energy in that room and the unity was breathtaking. Yesterday, you showed the world that Baltimore can come together”-----Voice of Baltimore

"I flew into Baltimore from San Francisco after performing and made it a priority to make it to the Baltimore Crown Awards! I had a great time ! It was a great event with nothing but love from great artists, influencers, dancers, and creatives, all from my city. It felt so good seeing so many people in one building together. Thank you Chin-Yer putting together such a great event that shines a lot light on different artists and recognizes them for their talent they’ve put in”------Timothy Fletcher

“The crown awards is our family reunion and our culminating event all at once. Chin-Yer powers the city with a force of love that is immeasurable and undefined but felt across space and time. At this point she just needs the convention center cuz baby! Baltimore showed OUT! -Grace Love of Poets for Dinner

“Thank you so much Chin-Yer for bringing us all together. This event was epic and the love is real”- Lor Xay Xay

“The Crown Awards! Chin-Yer you put on a hell of a show - I brought three strangers to show how we get down and they were amazed. It was like the Grammy’s in person”---Tif Saleem

“The Baltimore Crown Awards is one of my favorite events...in the entire country. Good to see everyone under one roof."- Shadeed of Indieplanet.com



"Chin-yer,Hey dear! WOW--what a packed house; standing room only! Congrats on a successful event, dear. I didn't know it was like THAT. Lol. You've obviously put a lot of work into building and promoting. Props!" -Ken Brown/Analysis-poet/curator of Mother Earth Poetry Vibe

"Just wanna say thank you so much Chin-Yer for giving the younger generation a chance to be noticed as well. Last night was a great turn out and you definitely brought the entire city together!" -Lil Tae- Worldstar Hip Hop Signed MC
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"You are magnificent! You honor community & leadership in a way that is untouchable and is truly touching" - -Mama Kibibi Ajanku -Community elder, Baltimore Legend, professional artist, and teaching artist

"Still really feeling a buzz from Saturday's Baltimore Crown Awards. Just wanted to say thank you for throwing an event that not only gave credit to the many hard working artists in the city, but also was an event that showed how much love we can show for each other. We're always recognized for our violence and hatred towards one another. I don't know that side. I know a city that supports dopeness and hard work. Let's keep going y'all" Eze Jackson \

> "Love, Love Love! Congratulations to you on such a well-attended, community centric and vibrationally high event. The people of Baltimore are blessed with your light" -Khadijah Zakia

“Hey Queen, I just wanted you to know you did a phenomenal job with the crown awards yesterday! The vibe, the networking and the atmosphere was unmatched. Nothing like coming together to support your own all the way around the board. Everyone was dripped in purple for the city. Shout out to Chin-Yer for an amazing event and shout out to Larry for being a great host. Keep shining the light you have inside”

Lotta Love

“Thanks for having something like this for the city! VIBES WERE UNMATCHED”

2Raww

"Congratsssssss on another beautiful event. The city, Yes the entire city needs the love that you provide to it. You are a light for so many different areas and we thank you for being such and for creating a place where talent can thrive, learn, grow, and be who they are destined to be, for creating a stage that allows flowers to be given and appreciated in real time. I'm not just saying that just because I'm the winner of podcast of the year (2 years straight) might I add lol but I'm saying this because it's true. You have a gift of creating love with no strings attached, and for that we will always love you!!!!- keep up the great work for THE CITY" Ty Hill of Cards Face Up Podcast

“Not only have you been guiding many young people to write and present themselves artistically, along with your singing and making music, you have consistently offered village venues for creatives and conscious entrepreneurs. You are a true way-shower, gifted with Beauty. Baltimore is blessed and you are one of the reasons. Your projects are so worthy of support” Mama Maria Broom- Baltimore Legend, community elder, professional actress, art instructor

"To see Baltimore come together like that last night was truly amazing. There's people I haven't seen in over 25 years still laying down the culture. The Crown Awards really put things in perspective and it's really bringing shine to the Baltimore Hip Hop Culture. The love from last night was out of this world. This is our time Baltimore, Let's keep the fire lit!"" -Booda Monk- Legendary Graffiti Artist

"Soooo about last Saturday night, Raspeckt and Salute to our Baltimore Scene Queen, Chin-Yer, you did it again. Congratulations! All of Baltimore's Stars were out shining super bright Saturday night. This was so dope!" Shawna Divine

"I love this event because it's one of the few places you can see artists, activists, and musicians young and old all together to celebrate one another" -Galanda Annette

"I loved getting to catch up with so many wonderful people at the Baltimore Crown Awards last night. Chin-Yer, you are amazing. Thank you for offering this convening for us to all listen, laugh, and celebrate each other every year." -Wendel Patrick

“In terms of overall spectrum and not leaving a stone unturned, THE BALTIMORE CROWN AWARDS covered every base. I witnessed such love & unity amongst peers from different genres of music, artistic expression, generations, radio personalities ( local & internet), & business owners ( profit & non profit) that I felt a strong sense of hope for the future. & honor to see what is was & is coming” This award show prides itself on authenticity where nominees & winners were artists, business owners, photographers, & radio personalities were genuinely picked by peers who acknowledged their importance to the scene…I felt a overwhelming sense of gratitude & appreciation to Chin-Yer for the idea & inspiration to put this “family reunion” together.. & to her credit . The award show could only be done by her because it’s a reflection of Chin…the business side, radio, poetry, photography, hip hop, r & b, ……Chin-Yer is involved in all aspects of the awards categories in some respect. Even the best dance group category ( don’t sleep on her dancing skills)- overall I just want to say simply…thanks for this contribution to our community in Baltimore & the DMV/ Baltimore music scene.” -Brian Hoyt

"Bless Chin-yer Wright for the Baltimore Crown Awards, it was lit to see my peers in the same room with the veterans. Thank you for being a bridge between worlds and sections of the art world. We tend to get cliquish and last night was just love, inclusivity, and family. Thank you Thank you Thank you a million times." -Alanah Nicole

"Yes! This is Excellent. Very nice show all around. Was my 1st time! I'm more impressed with Baltimore because of coming" -Nae Garcia

"Chin-yer Wright, Thank You!! You are truly an amazing spirit. What you do for Baltimore is a blessing. We appreciate you." -Jae The Lyoness

"All of those beautiful creators and artisans. Salute Sistar Chin-yer for bringing the dopest artists and supporters in the Baltimore Scene together looking fly as hell and showcasing gifts and talents for a worthy cause. Literacy!" -Shawna Cheatham

"Peace to all! First and foremost much respect to Chin-yer for giving me the opportunity to showcase my talent last night in the Beat Challenge and to all coordinators who help create a platform for artists to come out and display their craft. Secondly, much respect to all the producers, lyricists, designers, managers,and legends who have and continue to keep our creativity and musical vibrations alive in the past and currently! Last night was my 1st Crown Awards and the energy and skill set that was in the building was remarkable! We have too much talent out here for us to be put in the limelight the way that we are. Although we have everyday issues that all urban communities deal with across the map, it's not what we go thru but how we make it out of it! Collectively, we can make it happen and we should. I look forward to listening, learning, and collaborating with some of you in the near future! And last but not least, we often hear Baltimore is like crabs in a barrel, but the barrel is only as valuable as the goods that are in it, think about that and everyone have a productive week Peace!" -Born Spectact

"Chin-yer, it was amazing! Thank you so much for all your dedication, your vision, your heart....for real. It was a real spark for a lot of people. It was beautiful to see the productivity of Baltimore, the love, the talent...The creator is here...Definitely..Time to shine! Stay bright, Ms. Beacon of light...In the words of the great, late, Tupac Shakur..'You are appreciated..Love!" -Gaia: Poet Slam Champ/lyricist/producer

"Very impressed by what I see going on down here at the Baltimore Crown Awards" #BALTIMOREHIPHOP #REALNESS -Michael Smith

Thank you Chin-yer for your thoughtfulness and love you shared honoring Wombwork...and to have the award given by the family of brother OOH was more than awesome. This is the kind of real love that helps to fuel us to continue on our journey in helping to heal our community. May the most high continue to bless you Chin-yer, in ways you can't imagine. One Love" -Mama Rashida of Womb Work

"Wombwork is so grateful for the acknowledgement last evening. What a wonderful event. If we had a thousand tongues, we couldn't thank you all enough. May the creative revolutionary spirit of OOH Derrick Jones live forever" -Mama Kay of Wombwork

"I had a great day yesterday! Celebrating the solar return of one of my big sisters as well as attending the Baltimore Scene crown awards! Shout out to Chin-Yer Thebaltimorescene for her diligence in supporting baltimore artist! Had a chance to meet a lot of up and coming artist doing their thang! It was also great to see all of the artist who have been on the scene for a very long time! Mentorship keeps the art scene flowing in a healthy manner, where the work of those who set the path are never forgotten,the up and coming artists know your name your work, as well their responsibility to continue the legacy set forth by the great ones of old... #mentorship #supportindieartist" -Navasha Daya-

"Good morning, I just wanna thank you for the ball. I couldn't come but I was excited to buy a ticket to support your vision. I love your spirit, and it was a much needed time for the community to love up on each other and be fly as Fu*&. Thank you for giving that to Baltimore" -Erricka Bridgeford

"Well Chin-yer Wright (The Baltimore Scene) really made last night dope! The Baltimore Ball was one for the books. Great to see everyone from all the venues that helped to birth and nurture my artistry." -Black Root

"Thanks Chin-yer for putting together an amazing night!!! and for such a good cause!!" Alexis Joyce

I'm super proud of you. Baltimore Crown has become an institution. You put in hella work building up the scene and you hold it down as an amazing mom." -James Collins Creator of Fertile Ground/Co-Creator of Organic Soul Tuesdays

"The Baltimore Ball was great!! It was so nice seeing everybody all dressed up. We were looking good y'all. We should've taken a big group pic. The poetry was amazing. It was my first time seeing the youth that rep Baltimore so well all over the country and I was so proud. All the musical artists were great. umm can I get those beats please? The night had so many highlights. Chin-yer, thank you! I'm already looking forward to the next one!" -Kutia Jawara

"Had a blast at the Baltimore Ball! Big up to Chin-yer Wright! So proud of you girl" Anonamas Grooves

The Baltimore Ball was super lit. I laughed, cried, sang, danced, talked to and hugged lots of friends. It was really a great way to round out 2019. Thank you Chin-yer Wright. I love you and everything you do for this city. You're appreciated!" -Zaki

"Shout out to Chin-yer for organizing the Baltimore Ball. The event was a huge success. There were great poets, great singers, great producers, a great band and a great DJ united for a great cause-books for Baltimore youth. Brothers and sisters donated to promote literacy and education. The event epitomized Black excellence. It represented the beauty of Baltimore. Positive stories like this deserve far more attention." -Anson Asaka

"Had such an amazing time last night at The Baltimore Ball! ! Best night out in a long time. I loved seeing everyone all dressed up and fancy. Everyone looked incredible! And seeing so many familiar faces felt nostalgic. Big up Chin-yer Wright for putting this together. I need this type of energy in my life every month but I'll settle for every year lol" #BaltimoreBall -Nubia Moon

"It's been awhile since I dressed up and have a good gotdamn time! What's even better? Having fun for a good cause! Chin-yer Wright did the city right! We needed The #BaltimoreBall. Thank you for putting it all together.!' -Lakia McDaniel

"Last night was fun. Everybody looked great and amazing. Chin-yer do another." -Golden Angel

"The Baltimore Ball was definitely lit up last night. Appreciated the performances, vendors and all the guests who came out in the rain last night. Salute to Chin-yer for organizing and executing a wonderful event to benefit the children of a great school in Baltimore with books. As the comedian pointed us all out with some good fun, we did show up looking pretty damn good last night." Ricky Mannen

"I want to go the Crown Awards AGAIN tonight lol. I had a ball" Stan Stunna Street Legal Radio

"Chin-yer thank you for all you do for our arts community. We love and appreciate you." Karen Crawley-Buckholtz

"Oh my God! That Prince Tribute was EVERYTHING st the #BaltimoreCrownAwards" -Dionne Halsey

"This weekend was EVERYTHING that my heart needed!!! Thank you to Chin-yer Wright and Ogun for all the work that you do. Thank you to the Band Hippie Control!! Thanks Harvey Dent and Adam the sound man for holding us down. Thank you to Omnia Azar for the goal support. You are awesome and I am a fan!! Congratulations to every nominee and winner." CynDiva Harcum

"Great time at the Crown Awards!!!! Big up to Chin-yer Wright, Beautiful Event!" DJ Mark Nadir

"Yo the Crown is Littt!!" -Finesse The Great

"A building full of The Baltimore Scene in almost every genre of art. #CrownAwards" Marc Avon Evans

"I'm blown that I missed the Crown Awards last night. Big Congrats to all who won and a huge thanks to Chin-yer Wright for bringing the city together every year." Eze Jackson

"Every year the Crown Awards gets better and better, Chin-yer thank you for throwing an amazing venue." Derick Ebert

"Shout out to Chin-yer Wright for organizing another amazing event. The energy in the place was amazing." Courtney Wheeler

"I had a really good time. All of the live acts were awesome. Chin-Yer you are AMAZING and you looked stunning." Devon Marie

"Tonight was a beautiful event. Thank you for devoting your energy and time to the Baltimore Scene" -Ogun

"Scrolling through all the love in the pics from last night's Baltimore Crown Awards. Congrats to all the winners and those nominated and a huge thank you to Chin-yer and her team for making sure that Bmore artists are recognized for their amazing work! In the words of Rufus "I'm so glad I live in Baltimore"

"Chin-yer, you did it again. The Baltimore Crown Awards is always the epitome of excellence" Tamika Thaniel

"The Baltimore Crown Awards was awesome last night. Congrats to all the winners. I'm so proud to be from Baltimore. We have some talented people here. Much love to Chin-Yer. I hope your phone is off today and you are getting some rest because I have no idea how you pull that off with such grace every year" -Eze Jackson

"When an event "The Baltimore Crown Awards" plants the seed of love, fun and family for the week though!! Honestly, you should go next year. It's hard to describe. "Heard nothing but great things about the Crown Awards Last night. Congrats on another successful event. Sorry I missed it. Thank you for your continued service to the art community" -Wordslave

"Tonight was beautiful. I love this city. Congrats to all winners #BMOREFOREVER #OOHFOREVER and Chin-yer wins calmest promoter of the year award" -Kariz Marcel (producer)

"I just wanted to congratulate and thank everyone that attended the Baltimore Crown Awards last night. To those who couldn't make it, the event was a huge success for Baltimore. The Showcase was full of excitement, featuring some of Baltimore's best talent. Special thanks to Chin-yer for putting on for this city. Baltimore needs more positive events like this to inspire creativity in our youth. The Baltimore Crown Awards show recognizes the talent in our community. To me, everyone that participated and was nominated is a winner. Do your part to support local artists, businesses, and entrepreneurs. Peace!" Chuck Dee (Organizer/Owner of Monarch T's)

"I just want to give a huge shout out to Chin-yer for doing such an awesome job of highlighting all this talent in the beautiful city of ours at her annual Baltimore Crown Awards Show. I'm telling you she highlighted every scene making magic in this city, from vocalist and emcee to designer and bloggers and everything in between. I was in love with all the love in the building. It made my heart proud to still have OOH in the building. Shout out goes to Ogun for setting the tone from the beginning of the show, and for DJ Harvey Dent for keeping OOH's music in the mix. This was special. Congratulations to everyone nominated and everyone who won. You guys make us all proud! Yeah, today was a good day" -Sista Tracy (poet)

"Those Baltimore cyphers were SOOOO live last night!! at The Baltimore Crown Awards. Way better than BET" -Janae Tru (blogger)

"Had so much fun at the Baltimore Crown awards last night. It was definitely an amazing, totally positive experience shared by a room full of beautifully talented people! Congratulations to Chin-yer, our host Ogun (who by the way was fire in the cypher, ALL the winners and nominees, and to all who made this awesome event possible! Already looking forward to next year!" Sonja Davis-Lawrence (CEO at Sonika Imaging)

"I will continue tomorrow but WHOA that Baltimore Crown Award Cypher! Oh my gracious. That was classic. Woo! Loved it! and the Hero came out of retirement to end it. Yo, I'm about to dream about Hip Hop in 5..4..3..2..1. Baltimore Music is alive and very well. Chin-yer, another successful award show sis" Ms. Tris Beats (Producer)

"Big Shout out to Chin-yer for putting on another phenomenal event" Anita Foster (film maker/radio personality/community activist)

“I look forward to The Crown Awards every year! There are not many events that capture a family vibe, but yet are still entertaining and filled with such high energy throughout the night. I’m guaranteed to see people that I haven’t seen in years, as well as an abundance of key players to the Baltimore Music scene. I think the awards are a great way to acknowledge the hard work of the artists in our city, as well as give them something to feel proud of. I remember winning past awards and showing my mother and family members, and really feeling a sense of dignity about it. My mother’s reaction in particular really made me realize that I spend so much time away from my family because of music, and it made her feel happy that at least I was being acknowledged for those investments.

“The Crown Awards is my family reunion. It’s kind of like Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner when you see all your cousins, nephews, aunts and uncles that you haven’t seen all year long. It’s like you forget that you’re even at The 5 Seasons. It feels more like a neighborhood cook out or block party with a great DJ, host, live music, drinks and great people. I have struggled recently with being bored with the Baltimore Music Scene, in part because I am getting older, but more over it seems that no one really puts time into creating an experience. Anybody can give an event but can you create an actual experience that leaves the consumer or fan feeling like they have invested their time and money into something worthwhile. The Crown gives me something to be proud of as well as something to look forward to. I salute Chin-Yer and counter parts for being able to maintain this event for 7 years. People seldom realize the work, organization, energy and time that it really takes to pull off not only an awards show but a successful event period.”

Shout out to all those who still care! Salute to all those who put in countless hours of work to offer platforms for artists to showcase their talents whether MCing, poetry, producing, dancing, photography, DJing and so on. Our city is truly filled with talent but we sometimes seem to forget about the ones behind the scenes giving us all a place to seen and heard. I can’t until this time next year and I look forward to all of the other great events that “The Baltimore Scene” has in the works.” Ogun Beats Not Bullets WRITTEN BY SHAHEED ELEAZAR

“The Baltimore Crown Awards provides legitimacy for the collective efforts of the Baltimore Arts community. One of the best things about the event is that it provides recognition for those who work very hard behind-the-scenes to organize events, independent media, photographers and more. There are many aspects besides the artists that make up a successful arts community and the Crown does a great job acknowledging that each year.

The venue is packed with many notable homegrown talents in what felt like a family reunion. The event features great performances from various genres such as spoken word, R&B, dance, and hip hop, as well as heartfelt praise and acknowledgement for winners of awards this year. Overall, the event is a great success and a reminder of what talent exists within the greater Baltimore community.”

"Had an amazing time tonight... BALTIMORE has some of the greatest talent here and I wish everyone much SUCCESS! Shout out to Ms. Chin Yer for putting on an phenomenal event" -Anita D. Foster: Founder of Hip Hop For The Homeless

"Had an awesome time at the awards S/O to Chin-Yer..,,,cant wait till next year!! -Finesse The Best

"The Baltimore Crown Awards was off the chain! Shout out to Chin-Yer Thebaltimorescenefor inviting me and putting together a great show. Congrats to all the nominees and winners of the awards. Baltimore Stand Up!" -Taavon Smith of unificationsolutions.tv

"Just left the Annual Baltimore Crown Awards!! Did a ton of networking and number exchanging!! Super excited to make crazy moves to close out the year and even bigger ones next year!!! I'm still in awe!! Chin-Yer Thebaltimorescene really put on a great event!!! Thanks to everyone who came to show love!!!" -Rob Sevon-vocalist

"Last night was very impressive Chin-yer" -Tafari Behind the Scenes Magazine

"Thanking my beautiful sister Chin-Yer for an awesome night. Can't say enough about these Crown Awards. It was like homecoming." -Sevon Johnson

"In regards to the Baltimore Crown Awards...just want to say THANK YOU Chin-yer. This event is sooooo necessary...soo many people I don't get to see often were literally "all" there. Bryan Hoyt

"Thank you Chin-yer for a great awards show, my first time attending. Nominated (Promoter of the Year) Presenter (Best Underground Release) and Thank you for those words of encouragement said to me in the back. Thank you and congratulations to everyone either nominated or performed. Big shout out to the funny dude, Larry Lancaster. He kept the crowd in laugh mode." -Buck Jones Party Promoter

"It was good seeing everybody last night...saw a few people I haven't seen in a minute...Chin-Yer Thebaltimorescene you did a great job putting this together as usual...again congrats to all the winners and nominees..." Krizz of Middle Man Designs

"Thank you for letting me speak about France and Polar Bear Plunge 2014! 50.00 was raised last night because of you and will be added to the account today!!! Baltimore yall re-opened my eyes about my hometown yesterday... not cause of the donations but the unity that was in the building and the love ... Chin-Yer did a great job and I can wait till next year cause I WILL be there! Peace Bless!" -Jinxxx"

"Last night was a great night! Thank you for all your work. You looked beautiful by the way!" -Temple-poet

"Thank you Chin-Yer, that was dope! " Fame: Creator of undatheradar.com

"On the real, I really enjoyed myself at The Crown Awards last night. Chin-Yer Thebaltimorescene you did a wonderful job at putting everything together Sista. I also want to congratulate ALL award winners as well as nominees in every category, win or lose it shows that people are paying attention to you and appreciate what you do, so don't view it as a loss, only a motivating factor to make you push harder. Definitely a big big salute is in order for all of the Baltimore Legends that received recognition as well. I had a great time. Even got a couple of S.O.N. shout outs on the Mic. #ShiningOverNegativity" -Baltimore Son

"I applaud you on your vision, your execution, and your delivery for the awesome talent in Baltimore" -Mastermixx

"Chin, you are truly an amazing person! We are all better people for having known you in our lives. Can't say that about everyone, including myself... I don't really know if words can describe what you are to me, hip-hop and the city of Baltimore. God bless you!"- Frank Lewis

"GREAT EVENT CHIN-YER. I'M SO PROUD OF YOU BELOVED SISTER. CONGRATULATIONS ON ANOTHER GREAT EVENT. YOUR LOVE AND ENDORSEMENT OF THE SCENE IS MOST APPRECIATED BY ALL OF US" -Sean Toure

"You worked very hard girl and provided a great platform for all who were awarded! Congratulations on a successful event! I am very proud of you" -Navasha Daya

"The Baltimore Crown Awards were a lot of fun tonight! Great job Chin Yer! Congratulation to Marc Evans for his Baltimore Legend Award. It was an honor to present that award to you. Thank both of you for what you do for Baltimore and have done for me."- -Jahiti

"Had a great time last night at The Baltimore Crown Awards! S/O to Chin Yer for putting on a great event for the 6th time in a row!!!! Anybody who is anybody was definitely in the building!"- -Cream

"I think I speak on all of us when I say this so I just wanna publicly put dis out there.....Baltimore loves you Chin-yer. Thank you for everything you do n have done thus far. We appreciate it" -Savage the Beast

"The Baltimore Crown Awards was everything last night..& It only happens once a year..Chin-Yer put her all into this one.Congrats to all the Awards Winners.. The live band Cypher was Dope. Navasha Daya was an amazing Blessing. Jahiti.Ama Chandra. DJ Harvey Dent for controlling the vibe and Playing my Song #Sober. It felt so Good!!!Can't wait till next year ♥ #Art.Baltimore.Love.Community♥" -Whitney Chase

"Shout Outs to Chin Yer and the entire squad over there at the Baltimore Crown Awards. It was a great success and I truly appreciate you guys thinking of me. I had a GREAT TIME!!! Big up to all those who won last night! It means a lot to me to be awarded by my Bmore Family." -C Clear

"I was blown away by Shadeed Eleazer's presentation of my award! I have been on stage hundreds of times and have had the honor of winning a few awards but I never never literally gotten shook-en up and felt like I would cry until I heard everything he had to say! Big shout out to Baltimore Scene and Chin-Yer for the incredible event (and its years of success). And huge shout out for Mr. Shadeed for being the only person ever who was ever able to make me shake on stage and almost cry in front of a crowd! lol" -Amotion

"Chin yer it was a pleasure working with you. I just read on Rain Pryors page the phrase belief with intention. That's how I live my life and that's how I saw your vision play out last night. All those different elements giving great energy last night. I was honored to be a part. It's only going to get bigger and better. Cause artists in Baltimore are doing bigger better things. Will bring even more attention to an already well ran good energy event. THAT is belief, with intent." -Ama Chandra

"Shout out to Chin-Yer and the Baltimore Crown. I had a good time last night and got a lot of networking done! If you missed it....smh just make sure you make it next year!" -Hazzy aka Hazardous Truth

"The Baltimore Crown Awards (2012) was everything last night..& It only happens once a year..Chin-Yer put her all into this one.Congrats to all the Awards Winners.. The live band Cypher was Dope. Navasha Daya was an amazing Blessing. Jahiti.Ama Chandra. DJ Harvey Dent for controlling the vibe and Playing my Song #Sober. It felt so Good!!!Can't wait till next year ♥ #Art.Baltimore.Love.Community♥" -Whitney Chase

"Hands down, the most people I've ever seen at a hip hop event before 9PM lol! Thanks again for everything. You created another night for everyone in the scene to remember" -DJ REMEDY (Crown Awards 2011)

"Shout out to Chin-yer and The Baltimore Crown Awards for all the love. It feels good to be appreciated" -Walter M. Jones-Host of Warm Wednesdays



"Thank you for having this and all your other awesome events babe.Tay Tay loves you and appreciates all of your hard work" Tay Tay of Tayland Promotions.

"This was an event that really showed how much the artistic community can come out and support each other. I had such a wonderful time last night. Big up to The Baltimore Scene. Chin-yer, you outdid yourself on this one. I'm proud of you. Keep up the good work -Permiss of Politic with Permiss

"Last night was definitely a beautiful event to be a part of.It gave new artists and producers like myself a real opportunity to showcase our talent. Chin-yer keep doing what you do. You'll always have support from me and the homegrown inc, family" -Boon

"GREAT EVENT AT THE CROWN FAM. THE CITY APPRECIATES YOU AND SO DO I. DON'T STOP WHAT U DOING-BLESS!!!" -General Beatz

"I think that this event was the best event I have been to in a long time! It is so great to see all crafts of art there. I really enjoy the poetry/spoken word! ... To me, it is lyrics without the music" -Lisa of Baltimore Paparazzi

"Great Job tonight. It was wonderful to hear how much people love you.I enjoyed meeting new people, the music, and applauding the winners" -Karen Crawly-Bucholtz Poet, Sponsor of "Poets for Dinner", and creator of The Healing Space

"Great Event!! Congrats! Wasn't feeling well when I got there... left feeling 100% better" -DJ Spontaneous

"It [The Baltimore Crown] was a great atmosphere. I just want everyone to know, as far as The Baltimore Scene goes....what you see is what you get. We, are the scene, and we need to realize that it is up to us, and us alone, to formulate a plan to make the city/world notice us. Thanks to Chin-yer for putting everything together and for the opportunity to take part in that and thanks to everyone for supporting me out there. That made me feel right at home. Let's get it Baltimore" -Nobi-Graphic Designer & Producer

"Hey Sis! Last night was my first time attending the crown awards! Even though I got there late and had to leave early, I enjoyed myself last night! Thank you for all that you do to support the movement" Deborah Johnson

"AS I LOOK AT THE AWARD PERMISS AND I WON FOR POLITIC WITH PERMISS! I AM SO GRATEFUL. ON BEHALF OF MYSELF AND PERMISS, WE WAY THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST BALTIMORE MEDIA OF THE THE YEAR FOR THE 2010 4TH ANNUAL BALTIMORE CROWN S/O TO CHIN-YER. YOU ARE MY HERO #REAL TALK" -Singleton Newman.

"EVEN THO I MISSED TONIGHT'S EVENT, WHICH IS QUITE POSSIBLY THE MOST IMPORTANT AND ANTICIPATED EVENT IN BALTIMORE EVERY YEAR. I DO WANT TO ACKNOWLEDGE AND APPLAUD YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME OUT TO PUT TOGETHER A NIGHT FOR EVERYONE GRINDING IT OUT, TRYING TO MAKE IT. THANKS" -Mike Traum

"You are a pillar of this city in so many meaningful ways and we all appreciate you" Wendel Patrick “The Baltimore Crown Awards proved to be that dynamic universe showcasing the best of the city’s heart, talent, and audacity!! Salute to Chin-yer and team, Derrick Chase and all of the honorees and our community for showing up as bright lights shining like Black diamonds. We see you, in sincere gratitude, loving your swag, indomitable talents/gifts and commitment to shifting the atmospheric vibrations of the last Great Black city!! #BlackRenaissanceBaltimore #Wedoingthis -Teneicia Brown

“The vibes in the building were amazing. You had so many different people in the building but all love. Not many can do that. Job well done!” -Robin Agresott

"Man, it was so dope seeing beautiful black people together in one peaceful space. So inspiring and so needed!" Karmah Corlione "This woman here, maaaaan y'all lucky to have here" -Danny Pacl "Thank you Chin-Yer for a great event!" Val of Hug Don't Shoot "Amazing night" -Mia Miata “Chin-yer, beautiful event highlighting the culture that makes us special. Thank you for your special contributions and making Baltimore Special” Neeko B of Bmore Thank Dance "Big ups to The Baltimore Scene and Chin-Yer for throwing a magnificent event" Femi The Drifish

Chin-yer, to have a unity of people that show up and show out for you and others intribe of work and creativity is more than most people can imagine. It’s not always ya Day 1’s, it’s ones that will come out any day because they see and feel the vision. I'm at a loss for words. Thank you to Jahitie for that authentic and raw intoduction and the Derrick OOH Jones Service Award and not just that ..for your years of continued support and energy. I love you bro. Chin-Yer, I give thanks for this opportunity of this platform. I love this mission” Michael Cornish of Dads United Organization

Last night was a movie, a whole family reunion and your girl won Renaissance Woman of the Year!! Thank you Crown Awards. Thank you Chin-Yer for bringing all of these beautiful folks together” Tracie Jiggets

Director, actress, photographer (and a gang of other stuff which is the reason she won Renaissance Woman of the Year lol) “Special thanks to the Baltimore Crown awards and Chin-Yer Wright, we are very grateful for all the love and hard work you guys did for us and the rest of the city” Don Trunk of Dream 1st Studios

“Chin-Yer, you are a blessing to the Baltimore Music Scene and we can’t thank you enough for your dedication to the amazing annual program” Kariz Marcel of Blakwater Studios

“Thank you so much Baltimore Crown Awards and Chin-Yer Wright for putting together an awesome award show recognizing all of the amazing talent Baltimore has to offer!! Thank you for giving Baltimore their flowers. It was soooo good to meet your beautiful soul. Thank you for all that you do. Please let me know how I can support you and your movement!” -Honour Drew

Congratulations to all of the Baltimore Crown Award winners/nominees. It was and always is an honor to be nominated what a night to see old friends and colleagues of the Baltimore Music Scene. Big up Chin-yer for putting together another AWESOME event. Baltimore Crown Awards got a brother motivated again. THANK YOU” Thank you Baltimore Crown Awards and The Baltimore Scene for giving me my flowers while I’m still here to smel em by honoring me with a Derrick OOH Jones Service Award

Special shout out to Chin-yer for bringing Baltimore’s Best together for a beautiful night” Shelly Staylo Stephens

For years I been behind the scenes watching and helping Olufunmike Woods put on amazing events. I’ve always known of Chin-Yer and the magic she does , but have only seen it up close in recent years. What they do is dizzying. Soothing the most savage Bmore beasts, sitting at tanles that were not designed to make them comforatnle and never compromising. Dealing with the wild ass Bmore creative egos (y’all know you crazy), making sure everyone eat (literally and figuratively), pioneering, supporting, making space and time bend to their wil in order to create a path for the next generations. Alladat And nursing babies (Not just their kids neither) Raising a whole fucking universe inside a city And still making sure everyone got water and snacks and shit. Niggas need to bring flowers expeditiously -Zabrina Harris

"We were able to celebrate artists, activists, and influencers throughout Baltimore in an amazing display of community and love at the Baltimore Crown Awards last night. The brain child of our own Chin-Yer. It reflected the joy, love, passion, and sense of communal love that she embodies every day. I just want to think Chin-Yer for coming up with this incredible event to celebrate the amazing pool of talent here in Baltimore City. She didn't wait on the sidelines for someone to recognize and validate us, she just jumped in and started doing the work." Saleem Heggins of Saleem and The Music Lovers

"Last night at the Crown Awards, I hugged so many people I havent. seen in ages yet I didn't feel moved to take pictures until the end of the night. I had heart centered real conversations though. Those went down in my heart for real for real. As usual, it was an epic celecration and reunion #baltimorelight @baltimorecityoflight #baltimorecrownawards" -Ama Chandra

"Love, Love Love! Congratulations to you on such a well-attended, community centric and vibrationally high event. The people of Baltimore are blessed with your light" -Khadijah Zakia

"Shoutout to Chin-Yer for giving people their props when they can actually enjoy the them" D'Ionna Conaway

"Soooo about last Saturday night, Raspeckt and Ralute to our baltimore scene queen, Chin-Yer, you did it again. Congratulations! All of Baltimore's Stars were out shining super bright Saturday night. This was so dope." Shawna Divine

"It was so good to meet your beautiful soul!!! Thank you for all you do!!! Please let me know how I can support you and your movement!!! Thanks again beautiful" Honour Drew "Chin-Yer has me in awe and amazement. I'm truly thankful for that woman bruh-mother, auntie, and big sis to all" Zaki "I love what you have done by recognizing the culture being built in Baltimore!" -Ozzy of The Actors Academy of Baltimore "Good Afternoon Beautiful, I just wanted to say thank you for putting together the crown awards and giving people their flowers!" Miss Kam "This was my first time attending. I met some new folks and enjoyed seeing old friends in teh Baltimore & DMV scene. Kudos to all you do Chin-yer" Gigi The Poet

------------------------------------------------------Other Events-------------------------------------------------------- THE BALTIMORE SCENE TOWN HALL MEETING "Excellent show yesterday, Chin-Yeah! A sign of success is that you had a diverse group gravitating toward workable, beneficial discussions and solutions for the unique marriage of art and entrepreneurship." -George Howell

S/O to Chin-Yer for inviting me as a guest to the new Baltimore Scene show, I learned a lot and feel challenged to do more. Always promoting growth.. Thank you -Mia Loving

Good Discussion, Thanks Chin-Yer for creating the forum -Tif Saleem

"Learned a great deal on the Town Hall meeting with Chin-Yer. Looking forward to seeing where we go from here." Adeke Rose

"Thank you for facilitating this, it provided a lot of insight." Jordan Parrish

THE BALTIMORE SCENE RADIO SHOW

"The show was truly ENLIGHTENING... and the best thing that I liked about it was that ..... it was very TRUTHFUL without BIAS.... so many perspectives on Hip Hop from people who've actually seen hip hop AROUND THE WORLD." C-NILE

"It was good mix of panelists for the topic. Good job" Jaye Hunnie

"Giving Thanks for Chin-Yer Thebaltimorescene and what she does for the Baltimore Music Scene and Community as a whole. Today's Radio Show was awesome and it was definitely nice to be able to take part in such wonderful dialogue about the Scene. Really enjoyed building with everyone and hearing the different perspectives. Respect. Much Luv ‪#‎UnityInTheCommunity‬" Baltimore Son

"Great Show Chin!" G Major

"Great show. Some of the best tips I've heard." Poet Deep

"Great Info" Omega Soul

"Chin-yer Great job on hosting such an informative and interactive show and for having so many people engaged" Maria Collins

WORD WAR POETRY SLAMS "Word War is the best poetry event in Baltimore. I'm sure that everybody would agree" Kenneth Morrison CEO/Director of Dewmore Baltimore Art/Activism Organization

"The way Word War is set up, how it is put together, how the judges score and the criteria judges use, it takes all of the arbitrary things out of slams that poets always complain about and makes it what it is supposed to be about--- who has the best poem. Who wrote the best. Judges don't care about the audience response or only your emotional topic or only about your emotions in performance. It's not random. They care how well you wrote about your topic or experience. If you're really honest with yourself about your writing, you can't be mad at how you do at Word War. The only person you can be mad at is yourself" Slangston Hughes (Word War 9)

"I just want to say, thank you for having me...and I want in on any event that you cook up lol" Star Giovanni (Word War 8)

"I had a great time-so happy I came out. Haven't been so inspired in a while. It definitely made me want to perform again. The poets did a great job." -B. Sharise Moore (Word War 8)

"It was a fantastic night. The poets, host Gail Danley and the judges were amazing. I left inspired and spent the night writing for the first time in months. Beautiful job Schin-yer. It was a blessing to be there." Karen Crawley-Buckholtz (Word War 8)

"I had so much fun last night!! " Simply Sherri (Word War 8)

"Excellent event, Chin-Yer, congratulations to all the amazing, deep poets. The winning poem from Kenneth Something about patriarchy gave all of us something to think about and work on. Wonderful night, including the vendors." -Will Hug (Word War 8)

"Awesome Event!! Such talented poets!! Loved every minute" -Tiffani Brown

"Tonight was an amazing night. So so many great poets and poems. The audience gave me all the love my writing deserved. The judges were thoroughly fair. I came close, but tonight wasn't my night. I'm happy that I'm not the least bit bitter about it. I think I performed VERY well, but I was legitimately outperformed, and I am completely content with that. I now have the opportunity to learn and become even better and I'm sooooooooooooo happy for and proud of my brother for Jacob Mayberry (Black Chakra) for winning!!! Michael Martin Jr. (Word War 7)

"Word War 7 was crazy! It was my first time and I didn't win but it was an awesome awesome experience that I can't wait to do again next year. The talent there was beyond dope and I definitely learned alot. Much luv to Chin-yer for putting together a great competition" Poet Renae (Word War 7)

"Last Night was amazing! Thanks for the opportunity and for all that you do!" Ayanna Gallant-host of Bus, Boys, and Poets (Word War 7)

"I had a great time and loved the energy" Melanie Cook (Word War 7)

"Thank you so much sister. Your will and drive to throw this competition each year has allowed me to fulfill my dreams" Black Chakra (Word War 7)

"You always give official events & we will continue to support over here at the Kartel headquarters" Barcardy (Word War 7)

"So much fun, so many dope poets, so many laughs; I was thoroughly entertained. Before last night I had never even attended a SLAM let alone participate in one. I have heard so many horror stories; but last night was encouraging. I will definitely be back for more. The hostess Rebecca Dupas keep things moving. The judges LOVE the poet TwoDeep Carter Tula Mae, Shaka and others were truly engaged. In the final rounds I was so caught up in the energy of some of the poets I forgot it was suppose to be a war at all and it just felt like family. Like each person was either me or some member of my family on stage. Bravo to all bold enough to bare their soul on a stage and offer their babies up for judgement." Ra Sheem (Word War 6)

"I had a Ball!!! Thank you for having me" -William Wilson of Pit Fights MC Battle League (Word War 6)

"Had fun as usual. Good looking out on the love and putting on a great show Chin-Yer" Godchild (Word War 6)

"Had a blast last night hosting ‪#‎WordWarVI‬. Thanks for the invite Chin-Yer!" Rebecca Dupas

"Thanks for the opportunity regardless of my low score I had a good time being this was my first poetry slam" Patricia Johnson (Word War 6)

Last night was awesome..I competed in my first ever poetry slam and wow..just wow...I have to thank Chin-Yer for the opportunity and for pushing me to do it even tho I'm still wondering how she talked me into it lol... Rebecca Dupas was quite entertaining and held it down as always as the host lol she was too fun. Judge Michelle Antoinette and the others were fair and honest and damn sure made us get that work lol... and Precious Love Givens was a great scorekeeper and kept it professional (even when i tried to bribe her lol sike nah..)... and I felt honored to share a stage with some of my true poetry role models including Slangston Hughes, Jacob Mayberry, Nakia Brown, Alex Alexander, and now added to that list Allison Olender and a whole bunch of others..It's an experience I won't soon forget and I will always treasure.. ok back to sleep good night all.. heart emoticon till next slam.. Now I can go back to my kids and really lead by example when it comes to this art form." Poet Vicki (Word War 6)

"Shouts out to everyone who spit tonight! Especially Jacob Mayberry who I am quite a fan of. As well as Allison Olender who killed it tonight! Slangston Hughes rocked. And we even now... we got break this tie! Lol. Shouts out to Natalie Illum for leaving it all on stage and the big brother Godchild The-omen. Thank you Chin-Yer for the opportunity." Roscoe Burnems (Word War 6)

"So blessed to have been a witness!! The future is here" -Gaia (Word War 3)

"That was the best event I have been to in Bmore this year! Even though I a'int win, I stayed for the whole event (real artist). Shout out to everyone who competed and judged and came to support the event. This is what I love." P Tactics (Word War 2)

"Just wanna say that I had an incredible time at word war on Friday. Thanks for the opportunity to compete. Give my congrats to the winner. I have respect for the Bmore Poetry Scene. You'll see me around again" Ms. Wise (Word War)

"I HAD A GREAT TIME LAST NIGHT. THANKS FOR THROWING SUCH A GREAT EVENT" -Trace Blam (Word War)

"That was the best event I have been to in Bmore this year! Even though I a'int win, I stayed for the whole event (real artist). Shout out to everyone who competed and judged and came to support the event. This is what I love." P Tactics (Word War 2)

"It was great! Glad to see Sir back on the scene-everyone was amazing" -Kanikki-organizer of National Underground Spoken Word and Poetry Awards (Word War 2)

"THAT WAS AWESOME LAST NIGHT! THANKS FOR PUTTING THAT TOGETHER. LET BMORE KNOW WHEN YOU GONNA DO A WORD WAR 2" -White Chocolate (Word War 1)

"So blessed to have been a witness!! The future is here" -Gaia (Word War 3)

THE MASTERS MC BATTLES "Being a man of few words all I'm going to say is that The Master's definitely set the bar for competitions as a whole. Hip Hop is not dead" J5 Bmorehh.com

"The Masters was dope! Chin-yer for President" A Class

"Wow, did I have a great time last night! That was one of the best battles I have ever seen in person [The Masters]" -Jahiti of Brown F.I.S.H.

"That was one of the best hip hop events, I've been to and I've judged a lot of Battles [The Masters]" -Labtekwon

"FROM HERE ON, WHEN BALTIMORE MENTIONS MC COMPETITIONS, 'THE MASTERS' WILL BE TOP OF THE LIST. THIS IS MOST DEF NOT YA MOMMAS MC COMPETITION! 'I LOVE THE BALTIMORE SCENE AND YOU SHOULD TO" -Shaka Pitts-Pit fights CEO "DOPE ASS SHOW!!"

"THE MASTERS WAS DOPE. I REALLY ENJOYED MYSELF. SHOUT OUT TO ALL THE MC'S WHO PERFORMED" -The Author

"THE MASTERS SHOULD BE THE NEW STANDARD FOR MC BATTLES. WE AS THE ARTISITIC COMMUNITY ARE WELL WITHIN OUR RIGHTS TO DEMAND MORE FROM THE ARTISTS THAT REPRESENT US. THESE TYPE OF ELIMINATIONS ARE GOOD OPPORTUNITIES TO SHOWCASE THE VERSATILITY OF THE ARTISTS THAT EITHER WE HAVE NEVER HEARD FROM OR ARE ALREADY FAMILIAR WITH. DIFFERENT SIDES TO THE OLD AND A FRESH BREATH FROM THE NEW. GLAD TO HAVE BEEN A PART OF IT" -Kane Mayfield

"The Masters was the shit last night. Y'all took what it is to be an emcee to another level. Performers were freestyling. Battle rappers were forced to perform and in the end, we had a great show. Congrats" Bunny of No Guts No Glory

"We came through the Masters battle last night at the 5 Seasons and we're really feeling what y'all are doing with the underground scene. It's definitely needed and we definitely want to continue to support and actually become a part of the movement and add on. Let's see how we can come together on some things. Peace" -Poverty's Thread

"I'm honored my buddies and I were included in the evening's events. Thanks again for connecting the underground and keeping hip hip alive" -Maskara of The Baltimore Breakers [The Masters]

"Wonderful event and very clever task as far as the battle rounds. I loved it. Thanks for allowing me to be in the heckler sections that me and good made up ourselves lls" [The Masters 2010] Ty Gudda

"I had a lot of fun...and I definitely will be entering the Masters next year" -Lenwood

"I HAD A LOT OF FUN PARTICIPATING AND SPECTATIN. I'M TRYIN TO BRING THE TITLE TO PG NEXT YEAR THO!!! ALL IN ALL GREAT EVENT CHIN!" -PG Skillet

"THE MASTERS WAS AWESOME THIS YEAR. ENTERTAINING, INTRIGUING, FUNNY, AND MUCH MORE. AGAIN, CHIN-YER YOU PUT ON A GREAT EVENT. SHOUT OUT TO EVERYONE THAT MADE IT SPECIAL FOR ME ONCE AGAIN. I HADN'T LAUGHED THAT HARD IN A LONG TIME" -Singleton Newman< "AWESOME NIGHT-A LOT OF TALENT IN THE DMV"

-D Meitz

TRACK MEET PRODUCER BEAT BATTLES "JUST LETTING YOU KNOW I REALLY ENJOYED MYSELF LAST NIGHT AT 'THE TRACK MEET!!!' AND ALSO I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT BATTLE. I'M GOING TO WRECK SHOP THE NEXT GO AROUND. PEACE!" -Boone

ENERGY "YOUR ENERGY EVENT WAS HOTTTTT!!! KEEP ME POSTED ON WHAT OTHER EVENTS YOU DO... I WOULD LOVE TO COME AND SUPPORT YOU WHENEVER I CAN!!!" -Cream