Time Spent

Some very cool things are happening in the world of local rappers right now. Former Richmonder, Matthew Thompson and Ronin Wood have created the video project Time Spent to promote (mostly) unsigned East Coast rappers with no music, fancy lights or camera cuts. From the creators, "We are breaking rap down to its roots. We have crafted 'Time Spent' as a raw and gritty display of rap and rap only. The rules are no beat, no music, no hook, no cuts. We shoot all the videos on VHS with on camera audio."

The site currently has six different artists featured, with many more in line (including a few RVA locals). In addition to promoting underground rap artists (for no profit), they seek to promote other local artists that contribute to their work. Currently their website features illustrations by artist Genesis Crespo and they plan to add information on a local screen print artist who will design Time Spent merchandise.


Time Spent with Greg Ward from Time Spent on Vimeo.

Both Matthew and Ronin currently reside in Baltimore, attending the Maryland Institute College of Art. Matthew is a film maker and photographer in his free time, as well as a creator of all kinds. Ronin is a graphic designer with a special interest in designing for rap artists.

Together, they have created something they hope will have an impact on how people view and digest rap music.

Christie Thompson