Amber Epps
HollyHood is a seasoned hip hop artist, educator, interdisciplinary visual, and healing and spiritual arts practitioner based in Pittsburgh. Described by a fan as “a cross between Missy Elliott and Cardi B,” her work blends modern hip hop with an old school sensibility, what she defines as adult contemporary hip hop. Her lyrics, which she began writing in sixth grade detention, are deeply personal, emotionally resonant, and often combine gritty realism with moments of humor and lightness.
Known in the Pittsburgh music scene as the “Mom of Pittsburgh Hip Hop,” HollyHood has earned a reputation for her longevity, lyrical skill, and community impact. She has opened for legendary acts such as Rakim, KRS-One, GZA, Warren G, Sugarhill Gang, and Ja Rule. In 2021, she co-wrote, co-directed, and co-starred in Quest and the Girl with the Yellow Jacket, a hip-hopera commissioned by the New Hazlett Theater as part of their Community Supported Art performance series.
HollyHood holds five academic degrees, including two doctorates, and is often referred to as “Dr. Hood”. Her work has been featured at numerous festivals and conferences, including the Three Rivers Arts Festival, Deutschtown Music Festival, the Carnegie Museum of Art Film Festival, and CD Baby’s DIY Musician Conference in Austin, Texas. Her most recent single, Snapple, is available on all streaming platforms, with its promotional campaign featured on a billboard in Times Square. www.hollyhood156.com
