Overview

Last week, an exploration of Cerritos highlighted its past, present, and future. This week, the focus shifts to the city’s hip hop history, particularly how its unique environment has fostered a vibrant mobile DJ culture and a community of artists and writers. The piece will delve into the contributions of notable figures from Cerritos and the significance of its diverse community.

Key details

  • The article discusses the hip hop history in Cerritos and its role as a springboard for mobile DJ culture.
  • Cerritos is noted for its ethnic diversity, which contributes to a strong sense of community.
  • Two prominent DJ crews from Cerritos are the Beat Junkies and Cerritos All Stars.
  • DJ Rhettmatic and KJ Butta are key members of the Beat Junkies and have shared insights about the local hip hop scene.
  • Hetty Chang, a reporter for NBC 4, is among the notable individuals who grew up in Cerritos.
  • Chang attributes Cerritos' success to its good schools, diverse population, and strong community spirit.
  • Chang's childhood experience of an airplane crash in the late 1980s influenced her decision to pursue journalism.
  • The Beat Junkies officially formed in Cerritos in 1992, although their roots trace back earlier.
  • DJ Rhettmatic's family was one of the first Filipino families to settle in Cerritos.
  • The Beat Junkies initially DJed at local venues, including the Don Juan Mexican Restaurant.
  • Rhettmatic emphasizes the acceptance of diverse backgrounds among friends growing up in Cerritos.
  • The article will highlight more artists and writers from Cerritos towards the conclusion.

Context

The hip hop scene in Cerritos is deeply intertwined with the city's multicultural fabric, which has fostered a creative environment for artists and DJs alike. The contributions of local figures like the Beat Junkies and Hetty Chang illustrate the impact of this community on broader cultural narratives.

What happens next

The article promises to further explore the rise of the mobile DJ scene in Cerritos, particularly focusing on the Beat Junkies and their journey, as well as spotlighting additional artists and writers who have emerged from this vibrant community.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific contributions of other artists and writers from Cerritos are not yet confirmed. Additionally, the full scope of the impact of the hip hop culture on the community remains to be detailed.