Inspiration for the socially conscious, Gil Scott-Heron is a modern day griot. The truth rooted in his literature and recordings continue
to resonate with audiences, which is telling just how little political and cultural elements have changed over thirty years.

Poet, writer, singer, Gil Scott-Heron first met keyboardist, composer, Brian Jackson in 1969, where they were both students at Lincoln University. "...his ideas aided the transformation of Scott-Heron from a talented-but-difficult-to-listen-to poet into a musical messenger". Jackson's instrumental work is so appreciated by Scott-Heron who alternately refers to him as "our musical architect" and "my partner". The marriage between Scott-Heron's uncompromising lyrics and Jackson's reflective, often bittersweet melodies has been an extensive one. Scott-Heron was the first artist signed to Arista in 1975 and Jackson's importance was recognized by being co-listed as leader on all LPs during his tenure with Gil and the Midnight Band. Their collaborative offering stunningly captured in 7 albums; they are justly credited for sculpting a lasting image for the "information society".

With an eclectic group of musicians - Rob Gordon, (Bass aka Secretary of Entertainment), Ed Brady (Guitar to die for), Tony Duncanson (Percussion) who have shared the stage with Gil for years and introducing Steve Williams (Drummer for David Byrne, Sade) - who make use of nearly every tradition in Black American music, they continue to deliver critical conscious messages, whiplash word manipulations, urgent soulful rhythms and sensuous solidarity in a single set.

Saul Williams started as an influential poet, and an award-winning screenwriter/actor (Slam) but went on to gain acclaim as an off-base MC.His 2001 solo debut Amethyst Rock Star was produced by American Recordings Rick Rubin and it gained Saul enough attention to grant him a coveted invite to the 2001 Detroit Electronic Music Fest as well as many headlining slots around Europe. Saul opens first set, closes for second.