Category (AC): Donor Spotlights

The Universal Hip Hop Museum is built by, and built for, pioneers. We call people who were at the foundation of Hip Hop pioneers. We also attach this moniker to people who share and donate items they feel are valuable, meaningful, and powerful, and who want their legacy to be attached to the UHHM. We feature, interview, and spotlight these pioneers, philanthropists, artists, and producers to thank them for their generosity and share why they’ve donated.

James A. Peterson: Brushing with Fame, Making Greatness

James A. Peterson visual artist UHHM donor

“Growing up a small poor white kid in a multi-ethnic neighborhood in Milwaukee, I am glad that Hip Hop found me, and I found it. It made me feel cool and tough and hip. I don’t know if I was any of those, but thankfully the music helped me exude those things to a degree. I am unbelievably honored to be able to share gifts and collaborate creatively with some of the people who have had the biggest influence ever on Hip Hop music and culture. Then, to have those interactions and collaborations be installed in a museum dedicated to the music I have loved the most in my life brings me unspeakable joy.”

Richard Montes: Passing the Mic with Intention and Impact

Richard Montes writer director producer Pass The Mic film UHHM donor

“My work as a filmmaker aims to document, preserve, and tell stories that highlight my communities’ histories. Having the “Pass the Mic!” Collection at the Universal Hip Hop Museum contributes towards the well-being and unity of Brown, Indigenous, Black, and immigrant communities.”

Michael Benabib: Synchronized with and Supportive of Hip Hop since 1985

“I feel like Hip Hop picked me. It presented itself to me on the street. This movement picked me because of the way I experienced it on the streets of New York. It was such a dynamic force in 1985-1986. I was compelled to start taking these photos. Because it was happening. It was viral. It was coming out of the speakers. Kangol hats. It solved the problem that every artist has: where are you going to point your camera? I was in the right place at the right time. And I ran with it.” – Michael Benabib

GF Anon: Striving, Pushing, and Exemplifying the Culture

GF Anon Hip Hop Artist Author UHHM Donor

“This donation helped me realize that I have a voice in the culture, and that everything that I’ve been creating throughout the years isn’t falling on deaf ears. Growing up with depression and self-doubt, Hip Hop provided an outlet and a safe haven to fully express myself. Hip Hop saved a lot of people’s lives, including mine. I will continue to strive and push the culture in the right direction.” – GF Anon