Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum producer Tone P recently traveled to Chicago for a series of creative sessions with Chicago lyricist and activist Rhymefest at the historic Donda House, the childhood home of Kanye West, now serving as a cultural and creative hub for music and community.

During the sessions, the team created a powerful tribute record honoring civil rights leader Jesse Jackson. The song brings together Chicago voices including Common and D Lylez, with Reverend Jesse Jackson himself contributing vocals to the record.

At a previous studio session, Jackson stepped to the microphone and delivered a reimagined version of his historic “I Am” speech, giving the song a powerful intergenerational message rooted in the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement. The music for the record was produced by Tone P, blending soulful musical elements with cinematic hip-hop production designed to support the gravity and emotion of Jackson’s words.

While in Chicago, Tone P also created several new Go-Go inspired instrumentals, continuing his long-standing mission to expand the sound of Washington, D.C.’s official music into new spaces and collaborations across the country.

The sessions also sparked a larger vision. During their time together, Tone P and Rhymefest developed the concept for a future collaborative cultural album designed to bridge the identities of Chicago and Washington, D.C., two cities known for their deep cultural influence, political history, and distinct musical traditions.

Details of the project will be announced in the future, but the concept aims to celebrate the shared spirit of both cities while introducing a new sound rooted in cultural storytelling.

The Philosophy Behind the Collaboration

The work also reflects Tone P’s broader cultural philosophy behind his upcoming project “Black Privilege.” The idea reframes privilege not as something given, but something earned through culture, discipline, creativity, and ownership.

Bringing together voices from Chicago and Washington, D.C., two cities that have historically shaped Black culture, activism, and music represents that philosophy in action. From the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement to the innovation of modern music, the sessions at Donda House highlight how culture, collaboration, and creative independence can build a stronger future for the next generation.

More details about the Chicago and D.C. collaborative album concept will be announced soon.