Hip-hop lives where Kansas City-style jazz was born -- on 19th and Vine. Every Tuesday and Thursday night a diverse crowd gathers to partake in the four elements of hip-hop (rapping, DJing, graffiti art, and break dancing). No signs prohibit patrons from entering while wearing urban clothing or sporting dreads or braids. Some of the area's best DJs spin real hip-hop, and the open-mic freestyle sessions offer lyricists a chance to battle with words as the crowd bops to their innovative offerings. --SE
