RapFiendRadio

Tribute to Shemek Weddle

Shemek Weddle—artist, DJ, professor, and visionary;but titles never fully captured who he was. To me, he was my soul brother. A man whose creativity moved effortlessly between sound, motion, and meaning, and whose spirit lifted everyone fortunate enough to be in his orbit.

As a professor of animation at the University of Memphis, Shemek didn’t just teach technique_he taught possibility. He inspired students to see beyond the frame, to trust their voice, and to create with purpose. His artistry carried the rhythm of a DJ, the precision of an animator, and the heart of a true educator.

Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Shemek carried his roots with pride while planting seeds of creativity and love wherever he went. Yet beyond his professional brilliance, his greatest masterpiece was his life: an amazing man, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a deeply present human being. His family was his center, his joy, and his legacy.

Shemek leaves behind a beautiful family and a community forever changed by his light. His influence lives on through the art he created, the minds he shaped, the music he shared, and the love he gave so freely. Though he may no longer walk beside us, his spirit continues to move, animate, and resonate.

Rest in power, my brother. Your soul remains woven into our lives, and your creativity echoes on.

Tribute to Kaz Drumatik

Kaz Drumatik, a legendary producer from Lansing, Michigan, was more than a name in the music world—he was a force. His sound carried weight, originality, and soul, shaping records and influencing artists in ways that will be felt for generations. Kaz didn’t just make beats; he built worlds through rhythm and texture, leaving an unmistakable imprint on the culture.

His life was taken far too soon, and the loss is profound. Lansing lost one of its brightest creative voices, and the music community lost a producer whose talent was matched by his passion and dedication. Kaz’s work spoke for him: raw, powerful, and unapologetically real.

Beyond the studio, he was someone who represented where he came from, carrying his city with pride and giving it a sound that traveled far beyond Michigan. His legacy lives on through the music he created, the artists he elevated, and the inspiration he left behind.

Rest in power, Kaz Drumatik. Your beats still knock, your name still rings, and your spirit lives on in every track, every speaker, and every soul you touched.