Klyph Notes

Klyph Notes Ep. 185: Braille – Handcrafted Raps & Gospel Banquet

On this episode of Klyph Notes, I'm joined by an artist whose work has deeply impacted me—not only as a fan, but as someone who's watched his journey unfold across decades. Braille is back with Handcrafted Raps, his first solo project in over 14 years, and we dive into what inspired his return to the mic.

We talk about my personal connection to his music—through his solo career, his work with Lightheaded, and other collaborations that helped shape the sound of Northwest underground hip-hop. Braille shares why this new release was the right moment to re-enter the booth, and what Handcrafted Raps represents in this chapter of his life.

But we also explore his evolution beyond the music industry. Braille opens up about his transition from artist to ministry, and how that path led to the founding of Gospel Banquet, a label and platform focused on spiritually grounded creative work.

This one is layered with gratitude, reflection, and inspiration. Whether you've followed Braille since Lifefirst or are just tuning in, this conversation shines light on what it means to grow in purpose and still stay rooted in the rhythm.

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Toronto emcee D'NME joins Klyph Notes fresh off his performance at "From PDX & Beyond" during PDX Hip Hop Week. In town alongside Dough From Da Go, D'NME shares what it means to bring his brand of high-level lyricism from Canada to the Northwest, how collaboration and consistency have helped shape his independent grind, and the importance of building bridges between hip hop communities across borders.

From international stages to underground respect, D'NME opens up about his journey, influences, and staying authentic in a game that often rewards trends over talent.

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On this episode of Klyph Notes, I sit down with entrepreneur and community leader David Jefferson, the force behind the Stackin Kickz brand and retail space. But our conversation goes well beyond sneakers and streetwear.

David opens up about his journey as a mentor, his focus on uplifting youth in the community, and how his spiritual and mental clarity shapes both his business and personal mission. From the challenges of entrepreneurship to the importance of being a steady presence in people's lives, this episode is a reminder that leadership starts within.

Tap in to hear how Stackin Kickz is just the surface of a deeper movement rooted in purpose, mindset, and giving back.

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In this episode of Klyph Notes, we're joined by the multi-talented Danny Ocean and Shaydo, the hosts of They Gave Us A Show on XRAY FM. These two are also behind The After Hours Show and have been instrumental in bringing fresh perspectives to Portland's music and radio scene. When they're not breaking down pop culture or providing in-depth commentary on music, they're making waves on the airwaves, keeping things fresh and exciting for listeners.

Danny and Shaydo talk about their work at XRAY FM and their involvement with SPIN 503, a platform dedicated to covering the Portland music scene. From their humble beginnings to hosting multiple podcasts, they share insights into how they juggle it all and what it takes to create compelling radio content that resonates with listeners.

We dive into their approach to curating shows, how they stay connected with the local music community, and their behind-the-scenes stories of hosting They Gave Us A Show and The After Hours Show. It's a conversation packed with laughs, stories, and valuable lessons for anyone interested in the world of radio, podcasting, and music culture.

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On this episode of Klyph Notes, I sit down with Alexander Wright, better known as Casso Dinero. While music has always been part of his journey, Casso has built a powerful lane through design—shaping the visual identity of movements, artists, and platforms.

From work with Rolling Loud, Skyzoo, and Rapper Big Pooh, to crafting the look of community pillars like The Thesisand The Numberz, Casso's fingerprints can be found throughout hip-hop culture. He's also been behind much of the design that's fueled my own projects, bringing a consistent and authentic aesthetic to the work.

In this conversation, we talk about his approach to design as storytelling, the balance of art and business, and how vision and execution meet to create lasting impact.

Tap in for an inside look at the creative force of a designer shaping culture from the ground up.