Mark Lee, a Buffalo-based artist and founder of the 1,000 Mile Tour, is a firm believer in being the change he wants to see in the world. He sees himself as a bridge between his community and the music culture. The idea for the tour came from multiple sources, with the pandemic serving as a reminder that life is short and should be lived to the fullest. As an advocate for live music, Mark wanted to incorporate this sound into his work with fellow artists. Live music in the Hip Hop culture is always popular as it opens doors to new venues, expands the fan base, and provides a professional and memorable experience.

    As an artist, Mark understands the importance of trusting the creative process, being original, and staying true to oneself. He realized that many talented artists in Buffalo were limited by constantly trying to prove themselves within the local scene. Mark decided to spread his wings and collaborate with like-minded individuals. Together with a few musicians and his DJ, they embarked on a mini tour. What started with just 5 or 6 people quickly grew to a committed group of 16 individuals who believed in the vision. They chose Florida as their destination to maximize their opportunities, as many neighboring cities and states still had restrictions at the time. 

The team worked tirelessly for several months, fundraising through showcases, merchandise sales, backyard events, and more. As unsigned artists, it was up to them to bring their vision to life, and they succeeded. Packed in a sprinter van, they traveled over 1,000 miles to Florida and flew out the musicians the next day. Within a week, they had the chance to perform in Tampa, Orlando, Atlanta, and Miami. The experience was unparalleled, and as artists, they finally felt alive. They lived, ate, prayed, and performed together, forming a strong brotherhood and sisterhood while showcasing the best talent Buffalo has to offer. Their goal is to inspire others to take their own leap of faith and pursue their passions. The 1,000 Mile Tour received recognition from Byron Brown and was honored at the 716 music awards for their courage and dedication. In a culture that can be divided, they exemplified the importance of coming together. The 1,000 Mile Tour is returning this summer, and they are excited to make it even more remarkable than before, continuing to inspire and uplift others along the way.