Teyana Taylor Performs at Hip-Hop for Philly Natl. HIV Testing Day

On June 27, recording artist and actress Teyana Taylor will headline Philadelphia FIGHT's third annual "Hip Hop for Philly" free concert. The free concert, presented in partnership with Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and over 15 community-based organizations, will be held from 7-11 p.m. at the Trocadero Theater.

Tickets can be obtained only by young people aged 13-24 who receive a free HIV test at any participating agency or one of the Hip Hop for Philly free HIV testing events throughout Philadelphia.

"Hip hop music plays a huge role in influencing our youth," said Kimberly Chiaramonte, Supervisor of Philadelphia FIGHT's Counseling and Testing Program. "That is why we are so excited to have Teyana Taylor as the headliner for our third annual Hip Hop for Philly."

Teyana Taylor recently released her highly anticipated first studio album, "VII" which features hit singles, "Maybe" featuring Pusha T and Yo Gotti, and "Do Not Disturb" featuring Chris Brown. The first lady of Kanye West's G.O.O.D. Music ensemble has been featured on West's own "Dark Fantasy," in addition to penning hits for Chris Brown among others.

She also toured with August Alsina in 2014 to sold out venues across the country. Teyana is also an accomplished actress, having appeared in "Stomp the Yard 2: Homecoming" and Tyler Perry's "Madea's Big Happy Family."

The Hip Hop for Philly concert will also feature local artists. Dance troupe Project Positive will kick off the event and rapper E-Hos will perform. Hip Hop for Philly's goals are to provide youth with inspiring role models, encourage them to know their HIV status, and educate themselves and their community about safe and healthy behavior. Last year, more than 1,200 youth received HIV tests.

"Philadelphia's rate of infection is 3.5 times that of the national average and those under 30 are at the highest risk," said Chiaramonte. "This is the reason why one of our main goals for this event is to break down the stereotypes and educate young people who should get tested. I am positive this year will be a success both for the show and for the health of Philly youth."

Hip Hop for Philly on National HIV Testing Day is part of AIDS Education Month, a series of events, conferences and workshops held annually in June to increase AIDS awareness and exchange the most up-to-date, advanced HIV information. Educational presentations in various communities throughout the city, special events for target populations, and major outreach to encourage all Philadelphians to get tested for HIV also take place during AIDS Education Month.

Over 10,000 individuals are directly reached by Philadelphia FIGHT's efforts every June. To register for any AEM event or for more information, call 215-985-4448 x 200 or visit www.aidseducationmonth.org.

All AIDS Education Month events are free. Concert tickets are non-transferable, limited to one person, and available only while supplies last.