Malcolm London

Malcolm London's Chicago home base greatly informs his work as an activist, educator, poet, and gruff-voiced rapper. The artist's first rhymes were penned at the age of 12, but he didn't use writing as a serious outlet until a few years later. Among his first recordings were appearances on releases from fellow SaveMoney members Caleb James, Nico Segal, and Dally Auston. Around this time, Cornel West referred to London as "the Gil Scott-Heron of his generation." Since early 2015, London has co-organized and co-hosted monthly public sessions called OpenMike, conceived with Chance the Rapper. In October 2016, London issued Opia, featuring appearances from notable locals such as Jamila Woods, Vic Mensa, and Donnie Trumpet. ~ Andy Kellman