10 Years in the Making
"We're not asking for inclusion. We're building our own stage."
For over a decade, The Durite Network has been documenting Austin's overlooked R&B and hip-hop scene. Through shows like "The Topic Is," "Real Muzik TV," and "Lady Joy Forever Show," we've interviewed hundreds of artists, heard their struggles, and witnessed their talent being systematically excluded from Austin's major platforms.
The limited visibility of our productions isn't a failure—it's evidence of the same barriers our artists face every day. Without institutional support or marketing budgets, Black cultural content in Austin remains invisible. Rhythm & Rise Live changes that narrative.
Kevin Stewart launches The Durite Network with "The Topic Is," creating a platform for Austin artists ignored by mainstream media.
17-hour live broadcast proves we can execute large-scale productions. 30+ artists showcased, 15 Black-owned businesses promoted.
200+ episodes produced across multiple shows: "The Topic Is," "#NoFilter," "Men Talk Live," "Real Muzik TV," "QPR," "The Locker Room," "Frontline Manor."
June 20-21: Rhythm & Rise Live launches Austin's premier R&B and hip-hop festival on Juneteenth weekend.
71+ R&B and hip-hop artists finally receive professional compensation ($400-600), broadcast-quality production, and the recognition they deserve.
Austin's Black community sees their culture centered for 24 continuous hours, whether attending in person or streaming from home.
Create sustainable, recurring platform that grows from streaming showcase to multi-day festival rivaling Austin's established events.
200+ episodes. 8 original shows. Zero institutional support.
This is the foundation that built Rhythm & Rise Live.
Founder & Executive Producer
10+ years documenting Austin's overlooked music scene. Creator of 8 shows, 200+ episodes.
Stage Manager
Ensuring seamless transitions across 24 hours of live programming.
Talent Coordinator
Decade-long presence in Austin's underground scene. Known for discovering emerging talent.
Marketing Coordinator
Young artist who's created viral campaigns. Expert at reaching diverse audiences.
Austin calls itself the "Live Music Capital of the World," yet:
"This grant becomes the primer to start the pump, allowing Black culture to pour out of Austin with the force it's always possessed but never could display."
Year One starts June 20, 2026. Be part of history.