Antonio A&R Richardson Uses Hip-Hop to Unite at Rondo Days

For Antonio "A&R" Richardson, Rondo Days has always been a big deal. Growing up in Saint Paul, it was the best day of summer because everyone one came together and had a great time. Richardson is incredibly honored and excited to take part in this year's event as a performer on July 20th.

The Rondo Day Festival, taking place July 12-21, celebrates the best and brightest of Minnesota's African-American stories, achievements and culture. It reunites a dispersed people, welcomes new neighbors and encourages everyone to be mindful of the extent to which neighborhoods nourish the soul. Richardson wasn't alive when the Rondo neighborhood was divided, but has always felt the effects of the division within his community. "The presence of the bridge and how one side of the bridge treated the other was divisive, but on that one day of the summer there was never problems, it was all love," says Richardson about the importance of Rondo days. He hopes to help restore that sense of harmony for the 30th anniversary of the festival.

Richardson first performed at Rondo Days almost 10 years ago, and is thankful for that early opportunity and support from the community he was raised in. Today, he has experienced a lot of success as a hip-hop artist, actor and producer; and is looking forward to bringing a very special performance to the community he loves.

Since his first Rondo Days performance, Richardson has had the chance to travel the world, working with some very well respected directors, screenwriters, musical directors and talent. His work has introduced him to different cultures and lifestyles, the influence of which can be heard in his music. As an artist, he is constantly pushing himself to improve, and is unwilling to compromise his talent and vision, demanding the best from himself. Richardson has dedicated his hip-hop career to making music that is fresh and different from the status quo, and is eager to share it with his St. Paul family.

Richardson will be opening for the Grammy nominated, Twin Cities natives and fellow Central High School graduates, Mint Condition, on July 20, 2013 at the at the Rondo Education Center's Field.

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