So we all know RZA is one of the greatest rappers of all time. But did you guys know he’s a total geek out gangsta? At another of RZA’s Hip-Hop Chess events, we ask him to tell us his thoughts about technology and the internet. And the Wu Tang leader schools Irina, telling her to GO OUTSIDE. That probably won’t work. Also at the chess party, Rakaa of Dilated Peoples reflects about the first time he “touched” the Internet and Irina reveals that in 1997 she used to hide out in chat rooms and spit rhymes, pretending she was a boy. Besides the internationally known rappers, we also hear from a local young musician who has never lived without the internet. He is 18-year-old V, and he loves to help his mother with Microsoft Word. Enjoy the joy! (Big thanks to Kevin Zupancic for his shooting and editing skills on this episode!)

Episode links: RZA, Wu-Tang Clan, Hip-Hop Chess Federation, Rakaa, Dilated Peoples, WuChess, John O’Connell High School (San Francisco)

It just about time for the Second Annual Chess Kings Invitational and Scholarship Exhibition Tournament brought to you by none other than the Bay Area’s own Hip Hop Chess Federation! That’s quite a mouthful, but say it again cuz it’s worth it. With help from friends like the Wu Tang Clan, HHCF has given out more than $10,000 in scholarships, and they only started last year. Irina met with HHCF founder Adisa Banjoko at O’Connell high school in San Francisco where kids are already practicing their skills on the chess boards, getting ready for the February event. Adisa reminisces about his days in the Bay Area’s hip hop scene when he hung out with legends like….wait for it….Tupak Shakur. The boss of online chess site Chess Park promises to teach Irina to play and two high school students talk about their chess strategies. See you on the 64!

Episode links: Chesspark, WuChess, 9queens, Hip Hop Chess Federation