About this Event
Hear the Real Story: A Night of Hip Hop Storytelling with NippLife
Before the platinum records and stadium tours, there was the grind. There was the movement. There was the birth of a cultural phenomenon.
On Thursday, November 6th, step into the electric early days of Hip Hop as legendary figure NippLife shares his personal, firsthand experiences. This isn't a history lesson from a book—it's a raw, authentic look at the moments, people, and places that birthed one of the world's most powerful art forms.
Join us at The Shop at Matter from 5 PM to 7 PM for a powerful evening of stories, insights, and a deep dive into the very roots of Hip Hop culture. If you love the music, you need to hear this story.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Aurora-based rapper and producer NippLife, whose real name is Joe Nipper, is also known as "Colorado's hip-hop historian". Originally from Harlem and the Bronx, he was a first-generation hip-hop artist before moving to Colorado in the late 1980s.
Key details about NippLife:
Hip-hop roots: Born in 1964, Nipper grew up immersed in New York's early hip-hop scene in the 1970s and 1980s. At age 15, he freestyled for Kool Herc and developed his skills with DJ Mark the 45 King, who taught him how to "ride the beat".
Freestyle artist: A defining feature of NippLife's style is his mastery of the "one-take freestyle". Having written only one rhyme in his life, he creates music by improvising lyrics "off the top" while recording.
Relocation to Colorado: In 1988, he left New York and eventually settled in Aurora, Colorado, where he became a prominent figure in the local hip-hop scene. He is credited with bringing East Coast hip-hop influences to the state.
Recent music: In recent years, NippLife has maintained a prolific output. His albums include:
VIcE (2025)
Creativity is Infinite Project (2025)
Ready Before Time (2025)
Music Inspired from the They Call Me Lou Documentary (2024)
Advocacy: Through his music, Nipper speaks out on personal hardships, social issues, and advocates for hip-hop to return to more positive and uplifting themes.
He continues to perform in Colorado.
ACCESIBILITY
Parking: Metered street parking is available (parallel parking) on Market St. Paid lots are available within a few blocks. The closest one is on 21st and Market St.
Entrance Access: Our front door is at street level and manually operated, accessible for wheelchairs and mobility aids. The rest of the block has sidewalks raised by five steps; however, the bike lane offers a step-free route down the block with minimal car traffic.
Restrooms: All-gender restrooms. Just like at home.
Communication: All staff on site speak English. There will be one Spanish speaking staff member. We welcome communication via translation apps (Google Translate is available). While we do not use ASL, we’re happy to communicate through apps or other tools that work for you.
Alcohol Policy: No alcohol will be served or permitted at this event.
Masks: Masks are encouraged and supplied.
Questions or Requests: Please contact us at [email protected] with any accessibility needs or questions.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Shop at MATTER, 2114 Market Street, Denver, United States
USD 0.00
