* Zion I & The Grouch has given Hawaii 24/7 two tickets to Friday’s show at Rockstarz. So follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and check back at 4 p.m. when we’ll post a trivia question on there. First right answer in the comments below wins the tickets!

Karin Stanton | Hawaii 24/7 Editor

West Coast hip-hop stalwarts Zion I & The Grouch make their Big Island debut 8 p.m. Friday, June 3 at Rockstarz in Kailua-Kona, with a portion of the proceeds going to Japan tsunami relief efforts.

For the entire Healing of the Nation Tour, Zion I & The Grouch have donated $3 of each ticket sold to a local charity. Hawaii will benefit from the ticketing fees collected, especially Universal Giving, specifically for its Japan Tsunami Disaster Fund.

“Touching people with our music is the main thing we can do,” The Grouch said, “but contributing in a monetary way is taking things to the next level.”

The Hawaii dates come at the end of the tour, but the trio, well known for tackling weighty topics, are still enthusiastic about their latest album.

“This album is intended to stimulate positive change in people’s lives,” Zumbi said. “Whether that be a smile during hard times, or a shift in perspective, the idea is that we help to facilitate a soulful healing session. This record is like a massage for the mind, body, and spirit.”

In a phone interview last week from their Lake Tahoe gig, MC Zumbi and DJ Amp Live talked about their music and their first trip to the Big Island.

“Our message is definitely love yourself, believe in yourself and represent yourself,” Zumbi said. “You have to live within your own heart and be that person you want to be. You can do whatever you want, just keep focused.”

Zumbi said his lyrics have a connection to Hawaiian music and culture.

“Hawaiian music is very melodious, pretty mellow stuff. Mine is a little more aggressive,” he said. “But the message is similar – loving ourselves, taking care of families. It should be universal.”

The group has played several dates in Hawaii during previous tours.

“Each island is a little bit different, but it’s always a good time and a party,” Zumbi said. “People seem really sincere and I always get life lessons out there. I think people are more sensitive.”

Amp said he always enjoys the island performances.

“We like that reggae flavor. It’s real good. We try to be positive and have fun at our shows,” he said. “Music is the universal language, so come watch the show, get ready to dance, have some fun and go away happy!”

The California natives said they are looking forward to visiting Kona.

“I’m eager to check it out,” Zumbi said. “I want to check out the black sand beaches. I hear it’s dope.”

Amp also plans on a little relaxation time.

“Overall, it’s a little bit more laid back in Hawaii so hopefully I’ll get to chill out,” he said. “I’ll go hit the beach. I definitely want to hit the water.”

“Heroes in the Healing of the Nation” features Freeway, Roy Ayers, Fashawn, Casual, Mystic, Eric Rachmany, Jacob Hemphill of Soja, Eligh, Marty James, Los Rakas, Codany Holiday, and the R.O.D Project, which is in stores now.

Tickets are $20 advance, $25 at the door. Ages 21 and older.

— Find out more:
www.ZioniAndTheGrouch.com

www.rockstarzhawaii.com