Chris Burger, a pioneering figure in the Bay Area Hip-Hop scene, recently sat down with Hard Knock Radio’s Davey D to discuss his latest work, including the 4th installment of his Luv Phenomena album series called CBDG Flow Back 2. Known for blending social consciousness with musical innovation, Burger shared his thoughts on creativity, spirituality, and the community-focused roots of his music.
A Legacy of Resistance and Imagination
Burger has always been ahead of his time. From his early involvement with local groups like Alphabet Soup, to his groundbreaking solo projects, he has consistently fused love, resistance, and Afrofuturism. “We are spiritual beings having a human experience,” he said during the interview, reflecting on how his journey through struggles and triumphs influences his music.
His new project, CBDG Flow Back 2, emphasizes this blend of reflection and resistance. Burger discussed his personal evolution in the industry, including the importance of staying true to his artistic vision despite industry pressures. “We’re always going to resist,” he emphasized, “because we know who we are.”
Creating Afrofuturism
One of the standout moments in their conversation was the creation of Afrofuturism, a track that Burger collaborated on with Davey D. “When you have certain tracks, they write themselves,” Burger explained, describing his creative process as one of “downloading from the ether.” He cited inspirations from ancient African cultures, such as the Dogon and the Sirius B star system, which are central to his understanding of Afrofuturism.
“Resistance is not just about opposing systems, it’s about creating our own path forward,” Burger said, aligning his work with the themes of Afrofuturism—looking ahead and imagining new realities for the future.
The Love Phenomena Series
The Luv Phenomena series, which began in 2018, serves as a testament to Burger’s commitment to community and healing through music. The albums, which center around the theme of love as resistance, are not bound by the traditional cycles of the music industry. “I wanted to create something that could be universally understood,” Burger said. His focus on love is both personal and collective, addressing social issues while offering a sonic space for reflection and healing.
The latest installment, CBDG Flow Back 2, continues this theme, with songs like “Resistance” and “Casual Company” offering listeners both moments of introspection and calls to action. “Resistance is what it takes to get us to casual company,” he explained, speaking on how personal growth and external struggles intertwine in his music.
The Power of Live Music
Throughout his career, Burger has remained deeply connected to live performances. He and his collaborators, including musicians from groups like Timex Social Club and Alphabet Soup, have always embraced the communal aspect of music-making. Burger shared stories from his time with the Mofessionals and other bands, recalling how those experiences shaped his understanding of music as a collective, energetic exchange.
“Live sets are where the magic happens,” he said, reflecting on how performing in front of an audience is a powerful, spiritual experience. He also emphasized how the live band setup is becoming increasingly important in Hip-Hop, a genre once dominated by electronic beats and solo performers. “There’s something alive in that interaction that you can’t replicate in a studio.”
Resistance, Legacy, and the Future
As the conversation drew to a close, Burger expressed his hope for the future of Hip-Hop, especially within the context of ongoing struggles for justice and equality. He recalled how early activists in the Bay Area, like Natty Prep, fought to secure radio airtime for Black and Brown voices. This fight for visibility and representation remains at the heart of Burger’s work, even as he continues to innovate in his own artistic practice.
“We’ve got to remember where we came from,” Burger said, nodding to the pioneers who fought for the space that today’s artists now occupy. As he moves forward with CBDG Flow Back 2 and the rest of the Love Phenomenon series, he remains committed to bridging the gap between music, activism, and community.
Listeners can connect with Chris Burger’s work at LuvPhenomena.com, where the artist is offering his music for free, ensuring that his messages of love and resistance reach as many people as possible. With upcoming performances scheduled for 2024, including shows at BAMhouse and World One Festival, Chris Burger continues to inspire and uplift, using his platform to call for change and unity.
Chris Burger is more than just a Hip-Hop artist; he’s a spiritual guide, a community leader, and a visionary.
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