Minneapolis hip hop has continued to progress from artists like Slug of Atmosphere and Brother Ali, to the younger artists like deM atlaS and Allan Kingdom. Progression is important in all aspects of life but its rare that it can be measured so clearly. Last year as I was just moving to St Paul and beginning my work with Twin Cities artists I covered my show, Summer Set Music Festival 2016. With headlining acts like Atmosphere, Chance the Rapper, Logic and Torey Lanez, the weekend was filled with some of the best in the game. While these acts were undeniable show stoppers, the weekend introduced me to St Paul local, Why Khaliq, that would become a must see act for me.

After Friday night brought Steve Aoki and Chance the Rapper, Saturday would bring just as much power. J Plaza, my introduction to Twin Cities local music and exceptional talent in his own regard, took the stage at the Saloon, but it was his guest spot Why Khaliq that left a lasting impression on me and the Summer Set collective. This year he will return to the festival in the fields of Somerset, WI, but he will be playing the Mainstage this time.

As I have grown in the past year, it has been equally incredible to watch some of the artists I have covered begin to flourish in the own respects. Why Khaliq in the past year  has seen his brand of #WhyWednesday sky rocket. From playing Prof Outdoors 3 to the creation of his first short film (The Mustard Seed) to his soon to be released studio album named the same, Why Khaliq has continued to progress and that progression is shown as he moves from the Saloon to the main stage at Summer Set Music Festival.

Why Khaliq at Prof Outdoors 2016