the DMV Hip-Hop Scene At Kendesimedia.com

The Heartbeat of U Street: How Andre Long Shaped the DMV Hip-Hop Scene

Written By KENDESI MOHAMMED 

There was a time when U Turn on U Street was more than just a venue—it was a sanctuary for the dreamers, the hustlers, and the storytellers of the DMV hip-hop scene. Nestled in Washington, DC’s vibrant Shaw district, this modest space gave voice to countless artists yearning for their moment to shine. It wasn’t just about the music; it was about the culture, the energy, and the dreams that lived in every beat and every lyric. At the center of this movement stood Andre Long, better known as DRE All Day In The Paint, a relentless visionary who saw the potential in the DMV long before others did.

Andre wasn’t just a host; he was the heartbeat of U Turn. His weekly open mic events brought together aspiring emcees, singers, and producers, creating a space where raw talent could collide with opportunity. For the artists who climbed those steps to perform, it wasn’t about fame or fortune—it was about being seen, heard, and validated in a world that often demanded so much yet gave so little in return.

When U Turn closed its doors and transformed into Solly’s at 1942 11th Street NW, Andre didn’t flinch. The city was changing, as it always does, but his mission remained steadfast. He took the movement to Legends Nightclub and later to DC Stars, ensuring that the flame of DMV hip-hop continued to burn brightly. Each new venue was a new chapter in a story that was still being written—one about resilience, community, and the undying love for the art.

Andre’s dedication extended beyond hosting open mic nights. He became a mentor and motivator, pushing young dreamers to aim higher and think bigger. Perhaps his crowning achievement was the creation of the DMV Entertainment Awards, an event that recognized the incredible talent thriving in the District, Maryland, and Virginia. For many, this was the first time their work had been celebrated on such a scale, and it gave them the courage to keep pushing forward.

The legacy of U Turn and Andre Long is deeply intertwined with the story of Washington, DC itself—a city that is as dynamic and multifaceted as the people who call it home. Gentrification has swept through U Street, reshaping its landscape, but for those who remember the magic of those open mic nights, the spirit of U Turn lives on. It exists in the music, the memories, and the artists who dared to dream in that space.

For those like myself who have been documenting the DMV artist movement since 2006, the evolution of the city is bittersweet. I’ve met over a million people here, and my work has reached more than 5 million, but the truth is that every individual I’ve encountered shares one common desire: to do something meaningful with their lives. Whether it’s through music, art, or community work, the heartbeat of DC is its people—and their passion is what keeps this city alive.

Andre Long understood this better than anyone. His work wasn’t just about building events or hosting shows—it was about building a community. He led the movement with unwavering determination, inspiring young artists to believe in themselves and their potential. He showed them that with the right mix of hard work, marketing skills, and good management, their dreams weren’t just possible—they were inevitable.

U Turn may now be Solly’s, but the stories that began there continue to ripple through the DMV and beyond. It’s a reminder that while venues and cities may change, the power of art and community remains eternal. In the words of one aspiring artist who found their voice on that iconic stage, “Andre didn’t just give us a platform—he gave us a purpose.” And that purpose lives on, in every beat, every lyric, and every dream that refuses to fade.