LA Made Presents: Black Punk Now

Discover the inspiration and purpose that fueled the creation of Black Punk Now, James Spooner, and Chris L. Terry's latest book. Curated from the perspective of Black writers with connections to the world of punk, the collection mixes media as well as generations, creating a new reference point for music lovers, readers, and historians by capturing the present and looking toward the future. With strong visual elements integrated throughout, this smart, intimate collection is demonstrative of punk by being punk itself: underground, rebellious, aesthetic but not static-working to decenter whiteness by prioritizing other perspectives. The co-authors will lead a table reading followed by a moderated conversation with Tunde Adebimpe and Kash Abdulmalik. Don't miss this unique opportunity to gain insights into the book's inception and join in the discussion with our talented creators.
James Spooner is a graphic novelist, filmmaker, and tattoo artist best known for directing the seminal documentary Afro-Punk (2003) and co-creating the Afro-Punk Festival. His graphic memoir The High Desert, about being Black in small-town California and finding salvation in punk, came out in 2022.
Chris L. Terry is the author of the novels Black Card and Zero Fade. Born in 1979 to a Black father and white mother, Terry spent his late teens and early twenties touring as the vocalist for different Richmond, Virginia punk bands. He now lives and teaches in Los Angeles.
Tunde Adebimpe is a musician, actor, animator, director, and visual artist who also sings for the band TV on the Radio.
Kash Abdulmalik grew up in the golden age of hip-hop in the 1990s. Often one to jump in on a cipher or freestyle battle, it all changed for him one day in high school after hearing Minor Threat. He moved to Los Angeles and started the hardcore punk band Bad Reaction. Now a writer and actor, he is currently working on multiple projects in film and television involving black rock and roll, comedy, and horror, including a biopic on Screamin’ Jay Hawkins and other original works.

[@gis4506]

I read Black Punk Now! a couple months ago and it helped me get through a rlly hard time for reasons v akin to what the panelists find moving about DIY Punk (innovative, inspiring, empowering). As someone who couldn't make it to this panel, I am super appreciative that this program is available to the public in this way. I had a great time listening to the stage readings and conversations. Dope stuff ¡Viva Black Punk!
- a nerdy disabled Chicanx with a new commitment to their art

[@kurthl33t]

This was really cool, thanks for doing this!