Mixtape Trappers Gifted Over 150 Toys to Milwaukee Children
Two days before Christmas, Mixtape Trappers and The Playmaker held their first annual Mixtape Trappers Toy Giveaway for Milwaukee children. Mixtape Trappers Founder Jerry “DJ Jerry” Coleman said he was only expecting around 100 children to show up, yet 30 minutes before the event’s start there was already a line around the building.
The toy drive was held at Mixtape Trappers office at Beauty Coven, 2665 N. 35th St.
“We’re in the heart of the ghetto right here,” Coleman said about Mixtape Trappers’ location and a reason of why he gave back.
Jerry Coleman, Chicken P and other performers took pictures with the families. (Picture by Justin Gordon)
Coleman assumed people would only show up for certain performances but was happy to see how much the city truly supports him and his vision. The event featured performances from 3hirtyk, Dre Pedroo, Spanish Rice, Chicken P, Baby Trey and other guests.
“It was a crazy turn out,” said Coleman. “It made me feel good.”
Thanks to donations, over 150 toys were gifted to Milwaukee children. The event was aimed at children 13 and under with the options of barbie dolls, action figures, nerf guns and more to pick from, plus Mixtape Trappers merchandise. Coleman has an 11-year-old daughter who he has a hard time shopping for, which is another reason he wanted to put together the event. He figured he can’t be the only parent struggling with this issue.
Although this is Coleman’s first community event through his brand, this isn’t his first time giving back. Coleman’s great grandfather, along with his family, instilled in him early the importance of helping others.
Coleman has plans of hosting other community events with one revolving around the increase of deadly car crashes in Milwaukee. According to Coleman, he’s lost people due to these accidents and he’s ready to put real action forward to decrease the numbers.
“I’m tired of that shit,” he said.
Coleman is still in the brainstorming process, but looks forward to working on making it a reality in 2020.
Over 150 toys were gifted to Milwaukee children. (Picture by Justin Gordon)
In 2009, Coleman started a Mixtape Trappers Collation when mixtapes were at an all-time high. By 2016, Coleman transformed Mixtape Trappers into a podcast where he gives a platform to underground artists.
“My goal is to get to the top with this music,” said Coleman.
Coleman said he’s constantly researching and looking for the best artists. The fear of failing pushes Coleman to never stop the grind.
“I hate failing, but I love proving people wrong,” Coleman said.
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