Dr. Che "Rhymefest" Smith
Member
District 10A
Dr. Che "Rhymefest" Smith is a Grammy and Academy Award-winning writer, recording artist, educator, humanitarian and elected member of the Chicago Board of Education. As a strategic partner with Golden State Entertainment, a division of the Golden State Warriors, he leverages culture and arts for positive community impact. His latest project, James & Nikki: A Conversation, reimagines the 1971 dialogue between James Baldwin and Nikki Giovanni with contemporary beats and rhymes.
Dr. Smith has held fellowships at Dartmouth College and the University of Chicago, where he led seminars on using "Cultural Currency" for social and political justice.
His music career includes co-writing Kanye West's Grammy-winning "Jesus Walks" and “Glory” for the film “Selma," which earned a Grammy, Golden Globe and an Academy Award. He was also the subject of the acclaimed documentary “In My Father's House,” chronicling his journey to reconnect with his estranged father.
As co-founder of the nonprofit Art of Culture, he championed the healing power of art and nature through initiatives in the U.S.,Tanzania and Senegal. He is also an advocate for global justice through his work with the Abolition Institute to combat modern slavery.
"True Power Is the Power, To Empower." - Rhymefest
