Ain’t No Party Like a Birthday Party

Stacy D. Smith, aka Reach, is an MC worth celebrating. Despite a short-lived career in music, Smith is among the elder royalty of the city’s hip-hop scene. The Kansas City, Missouri, native has for years rocked local microphones with lyrics that alternate personal tales with streetwise political observations. His talent and perseverance have earned Smith notable honors. In 2005, Toyota named him the winner of its national rap talent search, the Scion Next Up contest. The rapper spent time on the popular Vans Warped Tour in 2007 and 2008. And, most recently, Smith left last year’s Pitch Music Awards as the winner of the hip-hop category. Smith, it turns out, also appreciates a good party. Along with buddies MilkDrop, Give Me Sound and DJ Ataxic, Smith presents the Second-Annual Reach Birthday Bash at Mike’s Tavern (5424 Troost, 816-444-3399). Tickets for the 21-and-older show cost $5. Doors open at 7 p.m.

Sat., Feb. 21, 7 p.m., 2009