Success in the music world is most often achieved by artists who create their own opportunities. The hip-hop monthly event All Smiles began in this sense, with local staple Rich Jones approaching Tonic Room five years ago to create a consistent platform for his group Second City Citizens who are now on hiatus. By taking charge of their own destiny, the group had a successful run of headlining shows while also giving their friends a place to perform in front of a friendly crowd.

After SCC decided to take a break, Rich Jones took the reins and evolved into the role of promoter. Anyone who knows Rich knows that he is constantly on the move. You can find him at comedy events, new DIY spaces, opening for national acts, or headlining his own shows, sometimes all in the same night. Through all of this, he realized that he had a unique perspective on the city’s talent and was in a position to create a showcase that brings together newcomers and veterans on the same stage. While Jones may occasionally pop up for a song, it’s not the point. He is looking to take artists that are making exciting music and give fans the opportunity to catch them in an intimate setting before they take on bigger stages.

All Smiles is the kind of event that any music fan should keep their eyes on. Last month featured Classick Studios’ latest addition Ben Burden as the headliner, who put on an inspired show that blew the audience away. This month’s iteration brings together dynamic MCs and singers that are sure to have breakout years in 2017. Check out the lineup below and see where they stand on the eternal debate of tacos vs. pizza.

Elton Aura

What was your favorite project of 2016?

Telefone

Tacos or pizza?

Tacos

What’s something that makes you and your friends ‘all smiles’?

Backyard BBQ's & making dope ass music together

Tasha

What was your favorite project of 2016?

Sweet Asl by Burns Twins x KAINA x Bedows 

Tacos or pizza?

Tacos, definitely. 

What’s something that makes you and your friends ‘all smiles’?

Black joy! 

MFn Melo

What was your favorite project of 2016?

A close  three-way tie of my idol NoName, my brother Saba and my women crush everyday Solange.

Tacos or pizza? 

If you would've asked me this in highschool  it would've been pizza hands down. But tacos are too delicious as a man.  

What’s something that makes you and your friends ‘all smiles’?

Each other. But in a very manly way though, haha.

AJ Peace

What was your favorite project of 2016?

Malibu, 99.9%, Lemonade 

Tacos or pizza?

Dang! I have my days where I want both but if I had to pick one to live with for the rest of my life. PIZZA!  

What’s something that makes you and your friends ‘all smiles’?

LIFE. Being alive and being able to enjoy life together