In the last twenty years, Mr. Rozzi has become a household name in the 336 area. A hip hop artist known for his self reflection and powerfully positive anthems such as ‘I Love Miself’ and ‘Good Day Remix’ is set to perform during the opening night concert of the third annual Mightier Than The Sword Awards at Sunset Film Festival in Asheboro, North Carolina on August 7th, 2026 and also a theatrical premiere of his video, ‘New Year, New Ideas’ during the screening blocks.
He won’t be coming alone though, he is bringing long time collaborator, Hiromenbipp who is known for his rugged, unapologetic authentic hip hop delivery and stage presence, and has toured with Mr. Rozzi during the past year, most recently with the iconic R.A. The Rugged Man. Rozzi is also bringing the powerful and soulful J. The Artist with him, who also has is own set in the night.
Next up in this genre-blending concert is another household name in the 336 area, yet in the bluegrass demographic, Donna Hughes, who has strong writing credits, most known being with Allison Kraus and has a knack for captivating an entire auditorium with her voice and instrument playing.
Sean Haitz is traveling from Los Angeles as part of the film festival production team, but also fresh off his album release with the Cosmic Jetties. Haitz is known for his ability to pick up and play at the drop of a dime, while sounding like he’s practiced for weeks.
Barry Yow is somewhat of an Asheboro hero, balancing life behind the bar at the city’s beloved Flying Pig, then performing some of your favorite cover songs at venues all throughout the city after he clocks out, with never a disappointed listener.
Kal Tek is flying in from Tampa, Florida to perform two theme songs from films that have been a part of the film festival in the past three years, bringing a true southern hip hop feel to the audience.
Chad Wayne will be brining in Jazz BG with him to perform a few songs to move the crowd.
Event director and programmer Ty Brueilly said, “My heart has always been in hip hop, that’s where it started for me, and I’ve known Mr. Rozzi for two decades. He’s a perfect fit to help start off our film festival, because he is also an actor, and one of the first artists in our area that I knew of that crossed that realm into acting, I’m glad he’s bringing Hiromenbipp with him, that’s a fascinating blend. Plus I really wanted some sounds from home too, like Donna and Barry, then bringing some outside influences like Sean and Kal Tek, it helped round out something very unique and eclectic, it’s going to be a great night. Then brining in J. The Artist, who has been on one of my albums with one of my favorite songs of mine back in 2009, it makes sense…and Chad Wayne with Jazz BG, that was the added flare we need.”
The opening night concert will be hosted by the one and only Cheryl ‘The Pearl’ and is put together by Ty Brueilly, Sunset Theatre, City Of Asheboro with the help of Tremayne Goff, Happy Fright Films, Cosmic Jetties & MNRA Music Group. Tickets, information and schedule for the film festival here www.filmandfashionbybrueilly.com/mttsawards