Photo cred: Samantha Petersen

As I looked out from the sixth floor of a warehouse at the large red “1st” sign above First National Bank, the room began to fill with people anticipating the premier of The Mustard Seed. Ty'Shaun Williams (better known as Why Khaliq) accompanied by Tezzy Geb and Cam Smith, were set to push play on a night of independent music and film. In his arms, Why’s daughter was brightly glowing in excitement to see her father's film debut as the lights dimmed and opening scene began. While the film was the main event, this evening was about more than music. Those who know Why Khaliq's movements are familiar with #whywednesday and his consistency to release his art on Wednesdays. However, art was not the aspect that took precedence on this night, it was solely about the community coming together. For an evening, people from different crafts, backgrounds, and lives gathered to be entertained by Why Khaliq in a different form. I could spend a few pages discussing and breaking this film down, but my words won't do it justice. So for the rest of the Twin Cities community, await the public release of this film and jump on any opportunity to see The Mustard Seed. The film itself was a heavy mix of music and visualization that told a story near and dear to Ty'Shaun's heart. With the opening scene depicting a dream world that eventually comes full circle, the true star of the scene is the song that echoes in the background. This is a theme throughout the half hour saga. While short stunts of cinematography move the story forward, this film is based in music. Staying true to the heart of hip-hop storytelling, The Mustard Seed shows just how influential hip-hop music is to the stories in our lives and vice versa. The short may not be available to the public yet, but at 7th Street Entry, next door to the historic First Avenue, you can hear the music of the film and much more as Why Khaliq presents: The Night of The Mustard Seed with DJ Mac Tims and special guests Audiyo Element, J Plaza, Lost In The Wild and Been Reza on January 18th.

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