PGAAMCC Welcomes New Cultural Ambassador Vance “Head-Roc” Levy
Article by Khadija Pounsel
“Our lives have value,” says Vance “Head-Roc” Levy on a hot and humid August day in North Brentwood, MD. The genre-crossing 20-year music veteran with his entrepreneurial approach (he executive produced all 6 of his solo albums) who continues to work with his critically acclaimed award-winning funk/rock/soul band GODISHEUS (gotta-see-us) has stepped into a new role − Cultural Ambassador for Prince George’s African American Museum and Cultural Center (PGAAMCC) in North Brentwood, MD.
Head-Roc speaks warmly of his ties to Prince George’s County: his family was a part of the exodus of African Americans who moved from Washington, DC to Prince George’s County in the early 1980s; he attended Prince George’s County schools, and has lived in Hillcrest Heights, Marlow Heights and Temple Hills. “I began to understand and connect the national significance of local Black history, anchored on our educational development, with much happening along the Route 1 Corridor. Included in that education is learning that PGAAMCC’s existence was championed by the late Honorable Gwendolyn Britt,” the mother of his fellow Infinite Loop member John Britt.
Inspired by the work of the late senator, “The Route 1 Corridor is where I’ve been led to be active in my arts and social engagement pursuits. I have been meditating on a way to become more involved along the Gateway Arts District,” says the Crossland High School graduate. “I even share the same barber with some proud and involved citizens of North Brentwood – often engaging them in discussions on how to create/attract more attention to the cultural corridor and business that will benefit the community.”
As PGAAMCC kicks off a 10th anniversary campaign, Vance is joining the momentum to launch a new cultural offering – Underground Railroad: Bazaar Under the Stars. The endeavor he is spearheading will bring a festive spirit of shopping, celebration and diaspora vibes, featuring a curated selection of vendors, food, and crafts in the museum’s outdoor pavilion (3rd Fridays throughout the fall 2019). The event name nods to Route 1 as a historic North/South route pathway and to the railroad that runs just behind the museum. Underground Railroad: Bazaar Under the Stars Designed to be a vibrant and lively destination where people can pick up a bite to eat, enjoy a bit of retail therapy, and jump start the weekend with neighbors, future friends and fellow County residents. Most importantly the event will feature a ‘community spotlight’, with neighborhood living legends and local icons, nominated by their community, being honored for their contributions. “I am optimistic and dedicated to the work necessary that will attract an increased and sustained interest in the cultural and artistic excellence of Black Americans with roots and of contribution to Prince George’s County, Maryland.”
For more information on upcoming PGAAMCC 10th anniversary