A TRIBE CALLED QUEST & A NONPROFIT: WE CAN KICK IT
TRIBE’S SONG, “CAN I KICK IT?” AS AN ANTHEM FOR A FANTASTIC NON-PROFIT WE CAN KICK IT HELPING YOUNG ADULTS & CHILDREN WHO HAVE BEEN AFFECTED BY CANCER
Comparing a 90’s hip hop group and one of their songs to a nonprofit dedicated to kids and their families affected by cancer may seem odd at first glance. Yet, the stories and messages behind both are strikingly similar.
BEYOND JUST THE SIMILAR PHRASE AND MESSAGE OF “KICKING IT”
About the Group: A Tribe Called Quest
They Were True “Game Changers”
A Tribe Called Quest was one of the most influential and successful hip hop groups of the 1990s, releasing five albums during that decade that each went either gold or platinum. They had a string of hit singles such as “Can I Kick It?” and “Award Tour” which now define the era for hip-hop heads the world over.
The importance of the group for the generation of musicians that followed is incalculable. Talking to the Village Voice, Kierna Mayo, the former editor-in-chief of Ebony Magazine, claimed: “Those albums gave birth to ‘neo-everything’. That entire class of D’Angelo, Erykah Badu, Maxwell, and Lauryn Hill — and moving on to André 3000, Kanye West, and Talib Kweli — everything that is left of everything begins with Tribe.” (Emphasis Added)
https://www.grunge.com/273517/a-tribe-called-quest-the-reason-they-broke-up/?utm_campaign=clip
They Were Just Young Kids From Queens, New York With A Dream, Tryin’ To Make It. And Boy, They Made it!
The group formed in Queens, New York in 1985 when the members were just kids. Originally the members were rapper and main producer Q-Tip, rapper Phife Dawg, DJ and co-producer Ali Shaheed Muhammad, and rapper Jarobi White.
They quickly gained notoriety for their eclectic, and “progressive sound” that included a “streetwise edge.”
Eventually, they collaborated with some of the biggest stars in the music industry and entertainment world. Their dream became reality.
The Group Dealt With A Founding Member’s Serious and Chronic Illness
Rapper Phife Dawg was diagnosed with diabetes mellitus in 1990. He underwent a kidney transplant in 2008.
During the recording of one album, he was receiving dialysis treatment three times a week to keep his condition under control.
Then, he was on the list awaiting another transplant.
The group temporarily broke-up, but reunited in 2006 as a touring unit. According to the New York Times, the reunion was undertaken to pay for Phife Dawg’s mounting medical bills.
Sadly, Phife passed in March 2016 while the group was completing their first album in over 18 years. He was only 45 years old. Following his passing, the group disbanded after a final concert tour in the months that followed.
The Fight For Joy & Happiness Even When Facing A Serious Illness
Upon Phife’s passing, A Tribe Called Quest released a statement, which said in part:
“Our hearts are heavy. We are devastated. This is something we weren’t prepared for although we all know that life is fleeting. It was no secret about his health and his fight. But the fight for his joy and happiness gave him everything he needed. The fight to keep his family happy, his soul happy and those around him happy, gave him complete and unadulterated joy… until he heeded his fathers call.”
https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2016/03/23/471599058/phife-dawg-a-founding-member-of-a-tribe-called-quest-dies-at-45
That’s a truly beautiful sentiment, and very on-point with what those of us facing a serious illness should always keep in our minds and hearts:
When faced with a severe illness, the “fight for joy and happiness” is everything!
Phife is now considered one of the most important rappers of his generation, and the album that eventually emerged, We Got It from Here … Thank You 4 Your Service (completed in his absence) “has been universally praised as a brilliant and politically-charged final statement from the group.”
NPR’s Oliver Wang stated: “A Tribe Called Quest gave us the best of themselves a generation ago. They didn’t owe us this one last album. Yet here it is, a parting gift right when we needed it the most.”
Awards & Accolades
John Bush of AllMusic called the group “the most intelligent, artistic rap group during the 1990s.”
The Source gave the group’s debut album, a perfect rating of five ‘mics,’ marking the first time that the magazine awarded the rating. Then in 1994, they won “Group of the Year” at The Source Awards
In 2005, A Tribe Called Quest received the “Founders Award” at the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Awards, and two years later, the group was honored at the 4th VH1 Hip Hop Honors. In 2017, the group was awarded the Brit Award for “International Group for its Achievement as an “Excellent International Group.”
They were nominated for 4 Grammy Awards as well.
All of their albums were certified either gold or platinum.
Segue: Mini History About the 90’s and Music
*** For those who grew-up after the 90’s or those who just don’t know, The Source Magazine was huge at the time. So, for the group to have received a “perfect” rating for their debut album was an enormous achievement.
Additionally, The Source Awards ran from 1994 to 2004 and honored both hip hop and R&B performers. Thus, Tribe was recognized as “Group of the Year” at the initial Awards Show. Another massive accomplishment.
However, The Source Awards was mired in controversy after controversy. One infamous incident actually involved 2Pac rushing the stage and performing while Q-Tip was still on stage.
The Awards became infamous for the alleged “East Coast v. West Coast” hip hop feud. Not important for this Post, but an interesting read about the animosity between rappers, their labels’ producers, etc. is here:
When Music Videos Were Actually on MTV
Also, back in the 90’s MTV actually played music videos! It wasn’t obsessed with WT(white trash) ruining the reputation of my beloved Jersey Shore – P.S. That trash does NOT depict my Jersey Shore!
Anyway, MTV’s only real “competition” was VH1. However, it was known for showing “less edgy” music videos. If MTV was showing videos during, “Yo MTV Raps“, then VH1 was showing Michael Bolton videos.
As time went on though, VH1 began to progress, showing videos from all types of music genres.
Frankly, I don’t even know if the channel still exists.
A Brief Background on the Song: CAN I KICK IT?”
With that background, the infamous hit, “Can I Kick It?”” was recorded in 1989, when the band members were only 19!
I was 9 years-old in ‘89, so I was not listening to hip hop. But, considering the time period, I’m in awe they were so young when they made such an immensely influential song.
Not only am I in awe of how young they were, the track samples Lou Reed’s “Walk On The Wild Side.” Generation upon generation know Reed’s infamous song.
Hip Hop wasn’t even mainstream music at the time. Yet, to get the rights to that sample at only 19 years-old is pretty amazing.
They were some seriously motivated and talented kids!
However, because Reed permitted the “Walk On The Wild Side.” sample, Reed kept all the royalties for Tribe’s rap. I’ll keep my opinion about that to myself… https://www.songfacts.com/facts/a-tribe-called-quest/can-i-kick-it
MUSIC VIDEO: “CAN I KICK IT?“
(Partial) LYRICS
“Can I Kick It” by A Tribe Called Quest
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Well, I’m gone (Go on then!)Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Well, I’m gone (Go on then!)…..
Rock and roll to the beat of the funk fuzz
Wipe your feet really good on the rhythm rug
If you feel the urge to freak, do the jitterbug
Come and spread your arms if you really need a hug…..
Like a box of positives is a plus, love
As the Tribe flies high like a dove Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
……..
The lyrics may be simple, but they’re powerful and positive. In life, if you ever question yourself, “Can I do this? All you have to do is listen to the song and think, “Yes, I can!
Especially to those of us “fighting cancer and/or its side effects:
If you ever question yourself, “Can I do this? listen to this song and think, “Yes, I can!
Just A Funny Observation:
In the video, I actually think Q-Tip goes from a silk button-down shirt and Z. Cavaricci® khakis (if you’re an 80’s or 90’s baby, you’ll appreciate the reference!) to a street hoodie.
That’s quite a costume change!
WE CAN KICK IT: A NONPROFIT SUPPORTING KIDS WITH CANCER AND THEIR FAMILIES
WHAT MAKES WE CAN KICK IT SO UNIQUE i.e. “Game Changers“
I briefly discussed the organization in a Prior Post here:
Beyond what I wrote in my Prior Post, here is why this organization is so special and unique:
THE FOUNDERS: A YOUNG COUPLE LIVING IN QUEENS WITH A DREAM...
The charity was founded by Adrian Conoboy and his wife, Roz, who were both raised in the UK.
However, Adrian is a fellow lucky Irishman ☘️. I’m proud to call them both dear friends!
Although, they were originally living in Queens, now with their gorgeous lil one(as we’d say back in Ireland “the wee pet” or “tut”) they’ve moved onto the ‘burbs.
MISSION
We Can Kick It is a nonprofit organization dedicated to using the passion of soccer to inspire & empower children and their families affected by cancer. The organization provides free soccer programs, not just for the child/young adult going through cancer. Also, they allow their their family and siblings to join in too!
I’ve been involved with many cancer organizations that all do amazing work.
Yet, this nonprofit, is a game changer in my eyes (sports pun unintended).
I could ramble on and on. However, it’s best to hear from the founders, and some of the kids directly about what makes this group so truly special.
WATCH VIDEO: https://youtu.be/x0OsiKQK3fA
Adrian was definitely born with a passion for football (known as “soccer” in the States), and growing up in London, it “was just a part of the culture.”
Both Adrian and Roz understand that soccer/football is like a “universal language”. Yes, you cheer on your team, but it’s the love of the game that crosses over so many cultures and boundaries.
“It just brings people together“.
HOW THE FOUNDERS DEALT WITH A SERIOUS ILLNESS – BRAIN CANCER
Additionally, another unique aspect of the organization is that it was founded because of how cancer affected the couple’s lives.
In 2016, Adrian was diagnosed with brain cancer
Thus, both Adrian and Roz can relate directly with the children and families the organization serves.
This is incredibly important because as Adrian says, “I know just what it’s like to be in their {the children battling cancer} shoes”.
Cancer just changes your entire life
After his diagnosis, Adrian had to leave behind his career as a football coach. As he says about cancer:
“It changed my life forever.”
Yet, while he was in hospital, he was so moved seeing children coming in and out for their treatments. Thus, he decided to use his love of soccer/football to help others get through everything that cancer takes away.
Through their journey trying to navigate the rollercoaster that is the “cancer world, Adrian and Roz know that cancer doesn’t just go away.
Even after the surgeries, and painful treatments are over, you don’t just simply “move on”. Boy, I just cannot express how true that really is!
I wrote about my own experience here:
A Look Back On “The Things I Wish I Were Told When I Was Diagnosed With Cancer” – PART ONE -(Opens in a new browser tab) (PS I never got to write PART TWO).
The Dream to Inspire & Empower Others Through Soccer Becomes A Reality
Roz and Adrian together with their sponsors, were sincerely dedicated, motivated and talented. Thus, We Can Kick It went from merely a dream to a reality. Starting in NYC, they’re already helping families outside of the States. And they hope to continue expanding here in the U.S. but also in places like the U.K. and Ireland. 🇨🇮
Awards & Accolades
Adrian and Roz’s hard work has definitely been recognized in many ways.
AWARDS
The New York City Football Club, LLC (NYCFC) nominated Adrian for the Wells Fargo MLS Community MVP Award.
He won and he received a $25,000 charitable donation to We Can Kick It.
Adrian was nominated by the NYCFC community for his work in using soccer as a tool to help make a positive impact with, We Can Kick It.
A survivor of brain cancer, Adrian realized during his time in hospital that he wanted to help put a smile on sick kids faces by using his skills as a soccer coach and sharing his love for the game with those affected by the disease.
https://www.nycfc.com/post/2018/08/01/adrian-conoboy-voted-mls-community-mvp (Emphasis Added)
After being nominated by NYCFC, Adrian and his wife Roz hit the campaign trail, bringing the #WeCanKickIt cause on the road, making stops everywhere from a Third Rail Party, to NYCFC & Man City joint-training session at the Etihad City Football Academy New York, to appearances on the popular Soccer In The City and Blue City Radio podcasts.
The results of their effort was an avalanche of votes. An internet campaign broke out, garnering tweets from people like NYCFC ‘keeper Sean Johnson, football writer Gab Marcotti, and Emmy Award Winning TV Show Host Suze Orman.
Adrian was presented the Community MVP Award at halftime, down on the field of the 2018 MLS All-Star Game in Atlanta.
Can we kick it? The answer is a resounding ‘yes’!
https://www.nycfc.com/post/2018/08/01/adrian-conoboy-voted-mls-community-mvp
Fundraising
The 1st Annual Golden Globe Celebration raised close to $15,000!
That’s amazing for a “grassroots” nonprofit’s first major fundraiser. As someone who has worked/volunteered in fundraising since a Freshman in college, I can safely say, “WOW”!
In 2019, ICAP (a London-based financial firm) selected WCKI as one of the charities it would support on its annual Charity Day.
On the annual Charity Day ICAP gives one day’s revenue and commissions to charity and even to fund entire charitable projects.
ICAP’s Charity Day has helped over 2,600 causes worldwide raising over £150,000,00 to date since 1993.
With the money donated through this event, WCKI was able to provide their first soccer camps in 2020! Although modified from it’s original plan #becauseCOVID they were still able to connect to the kids and families 1on1 or virtually.
In spring of 2021, The Westfield, New Jersey Soccer Program (@WSA_NJ) organized a spring break fundraiser camp for WCKI.
Those donations will go towards more FREE soccer programs to kids affected by cancer.
The 2nd Annual Golden Globe Celebration, raised over $15,000! Even though it could not be live, like the 1st event, it was a fantastic success even though it was completely virtual.
I was a proud “Gold Level”Sponsor for the event.
MY FELLOW CANCER WARRIORS: KNOWING THAT THE FIGHT FOR HAPPINESS IS EVERYTHING
Like A Tribe Called Quest stated, when faced with a severe illness, the “fight for joy and happiness” is everything!
We Can Kick It brings that joy and happiness to the participants who are truly amazing kids. Also, the organization spreads that joy to the kids’ families.
CANCER DOESN’T JUST AFFECT THE PATIENT
I consider BOTH Adrian and Roz fellow brain cancer warriors.
Despite the hurdles cancer brought into their lives, Adrian and Roz turned their “pain into purpose” when they created We Can Kick It. The organization has now served over 100 children
Im proud I’ve got both Adrian and Roz battling beside me, supporting me and vice versa.
If you think about it, when your spouse gets diagnosed with cancer, it’s like you get it too. I’m sure it’s the same for the families of children and young adults dealing with cancer.
Sure, I am a 3-time brain cancer survivor! Amen Adrian’s scans have been stable.
We both know how hard it is facing cancer as an adult!
I could not imagine what children diagnosed with cancer go through. Yet, hopefully you watched the video I linked above. Despite suffering from cancer you can see and hear how strong these kids all are!
They are an inspiration to anyone who is dealing with life challenges.
The world could learn a LOT just by seeing the resilience and strength they exude.
As one young adult (now 18), Elijah says in the video:
“I’m a cancer survivor. It’s difficult but that doesn’t stop me”.
As Roz, says, “We Can Kick It allows these kids to just be kids if even for a few hours.” This is just as important for the families as it is for the children affected by childhood cancer.
IN HONOR OF BRAIN CANCER AWARENESS MONTH IS MAY, ALTHOUGH A FEW DAYS LATE, HERE’S TO ADRIAN, ROZ & ALL THE WCKI FAMILY!
THE WICKI FAMILY
When cancer affects children, it changes the “playing field “ (sports pun intended)
A child suffering through cancer brings-on even more challenges.
- You cannot give the same treatments to children as adults
- Obviously, children are still developing. Thus, that may impede treatment options
- Cancer “treatment” is very harsh on the body
- Childhood should never be anything but smiles!
- If treatment is outpatient, most likely the parents must arrange work, other children’s needs (if the patient has any siblings) and finances all based on the childhood cancer patient’s needs
KNOWING THAT THE FIGHT FOR HAPPINESS IS EVERYTHING
At the end of the day, the fight for joy and happiness, even when facing cancer, is everything! Thus, by “letting these kids just be kids even if for a few hours, is ultimately what makes We Can Kick It so incredibly special!
This organization is honestly a “game changer”. So, in the words of A Tribe Called Quest:
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)
Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!)(Yes, you can!)(Yes, you can!)
SUPPORT WE CAN KICK IT:
WEBSITE: http://www.wecankickit.org
TWITTER: @wecankick it
INSTAGRAM: @wecankickit
DONATE: wecankickit.org/pages/registration-page
