Sometimes, in order to get a message across, you need to put it in music. That’s what Buffalo hip-hop lyricist Jeff Grossi, aka MC ZiLL, is doing in order to address the issues of state education. MC ZiLL has hit the road with his film crew, to produce a video that draws attention to the controversial topics of receivership, Common Core, etc.
“The video helps us to promote the issues that the collective (teachers, students, parents and community members) is facing, with the continuing attempts to dismantle public education in Buffalo, across our state and throughout our country,” says Grossi. “As promised, I continue to fight and raise awareness about our mission.”
The mission that Grossi is referring to is part of his hope to revolutionize public education through education activism. The song – “Still Teaching” – is a follow up to the artist’s initial anti-Common Core anthem – “We’re Teaching“. Instead of simply writing his sentiments down on paper, Grossi feels that the message is able to transcend broader audiences by delivering it through a musical medium.
MC ZiLL is portrayed in the video as an education crime fighter. The rapper feels that the root of the public education problem stems with a range of issues that include standardized testing, Common Core initiatives and, in general, NYS Governor Cuomo.