Behind the Tap: Shabazz's Brew Journey at Vine Street
Meet Shabazz, a valued member of the Vine Street Brewing community. In this exclusive Q&A session, Shabazz shares insights into their unique journey with beer, activism, and hidden gems around Kansas City. Let's dive into their story and discover what makes them shine as a Beer Star at Vine Street Brewing Co.
Q&A with Shabazz:
Q: What song or album perfectly pairs with your favorite Vine Street brew, and why?
A: "I really enjoy the lo-fi instrumentals that Kemet plays throughout the brewery. I have nothing against all the live performers, but the music without words really allows for individual interpretation and imagination. I like freestyling to beats, so it comes in handy when pouring beer. Especially when pouring The Life of The Party. I really get to feeling like I am the life of the party, lol."
Q: If you could serve any historical figure a beer at Vine Street, who would it be and what beer would you choose for them? Why?
A: "I would choose to serve some of the KC OGs like my Great-Grandfather, Arthur Filmore Bronson. He owned the Paseo Cab Company from 1916-1966. It was on Vine Street, 1514 East 18th Street. I think he would be so proud!!"
Q: When you're not sharing your passion for beer with the world, what's your go-to hobby or activity that people might be surprised to learn about you?
A: Activism. I am pretty vocal and open about my involvement with local organizations like Decarcerate KC, KC Defender, KC Tenants; etc. Folks could assume I am not the black radical that I am, but I would hope not. They also may not know how much I love to fish. My family owns an international bass fishing federation that was started by my maternal grandmother, my uncle, and my father back in 1995. It's called the IFBBA.
Q: What's your favorite thing about Vine Street?
A: My favorite thing about Vine Street is the rich culture and history of Black People making moves in that area. Not so much the entrepreneurship aspect, but just black people having a space to be themselves within this city. How black folks made it through the Pendergast era and so forth.
Q: Can you share your favorite local spot that feels like a hidden gem to you?
A: Lookout Point is a favorite local spot of mine. So many memories with so many people have taken place there. The younger gens don't even know!
Q: Everyone remembers their first craft beer experience. What was yours and how did it set you on the path to becoming a beer star at Vine Street?
A: My first beer experience was, I guess, taking a sip of my dad's beer when I was very young, lol. I didn't have permission, but he and some friends were chillin' at our house after work, and once they got up to leave, I snuck a sip. It was so gross!!! But I never shied away from beer from then on. I was like the only one in my crew that liked Bud Light, lol. I never really thought I'd ever be a Beer Star, though. I think the ancestors had more to do with this connection than me.
Stay tuned for more stories "Behind the Tap" as we continue introducing the faces that bring Vine Street Brewing Co. to life!