November 2017: a few years prior to the formal launch of the podcast “Welcome To The Music,” co-host Karim Kanji organized an exclusive, invite-only recording of his 100th episode at the renowned studio formerly known as Pacific Junction Hotel. The distinguished guest for this special occasion was none other than the eminent figure in Canadian hip hop, Maestro Fresh Wes.

In light of Wes Williams, also known as Maestro Fresh Wes, being named the recipient of the Governor General’s Award for Performing Arts, we revisit this noteworthy conversation. 

The episode commenced with Wes Williams and Karim Kanji indulging in reflections on their early encounters with music and the hip-hop culture. Wes recounted anecdotes about his father’s music collection, acknowledging the influence of his grade four teacher and a close friend on his musical inclinations. He further elaborated on the profound impact of Michie Mee and Stevie B on his artistic journey, highlighting the instrumental role played by Electric Circus in securing his inaugural record deal.

The dialogue then transitioned into a discussion about the significance of utilizing music as a platform for social commentary. Wes underscored the imperative for artists to inspire and uplift through their musical endeavors. Both Wes and Karim fervently delved into topics surrounding the mistreatment of Indigenous peoples, racial injustice in Canada, systemic racism, and the lack of acknowledgment for black achievements. Their critique extended to the celebration of Thanksgiving and the disparities in media representation, emphasizing the pressing need for unity and empowerment within the black community.

The conversation also delved into personal experiences, including individual audition anecdotes and Maestro Fresh Wes’s reflections on fatherhood and political satire within rap music. The audience actively participated in discussions about music and influences, posing inquiries about Living Colour and exploring the fusion of rap with other musical styles. This segment concluded with audience members sharing personal stories and directing questions to Maestro Fresh Wes, covering a range of topics including his impact on the Toronto hip-hop scene, aspirations in music, film, and literature, and his approach to engaging and inspiring young audiences.

This special live recording provided a comprehensive and captivating exploration of the evolution of hip-hop culture in Canada, the imperative of using music as a vehicle for social commentary, and the personal experiences and influences that have shaped Wes’s artistic journey.