We had the good fortune of connecting with Maurice Hairston and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maurice, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I originate from Glenarden, Maryland, and my upbringing has significantly shaped my character. From early on, I learned the importance of loyalty, organization, and fostering a strong community spirit. However, I also observed the challenges of separation, violence, and broken families. These experiences motivated me to become a catalyst for positive change in my community. Through God, my music and advocacy work, I strive to amplify the voices and concerns of those less fortunate. Serving as a Councilman in my city enables me to further inspire, motivate, and implement impactful programs that benefit our residents.

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Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a radical artist, entrepreneur, father, and committed community servant. My drive to enhance our city and bring people together motivated me to become deeply involved in community activities—organizing events, supporting youth sports, and advocating for nonviolence. Putting God first, I am dedicated to uplifting everyone’s quality of life.

What sets me apart is my unyielding determination and love, guided by the heart of God, to realize harmony on earth as intended. I’m honored to lead and offer hope for a brighter future. Along the way, I’ve learned valuable lessons—sometimes, reaching people requires unconventional methods, and not everyone needs immediate assistance.

I’ve discovered that not every encounter directly impacts everyone’s spirit, but it may activate the one who needs to be reached. My journey to this point involved personal growth and deepening my faith in God, understanding that challenges often reveal our purpose. Despite adopting worldly ways that can dim our inner light, I overcome challenges by embracing them and appreciating the lessons they teach.

My Brand is (Highest Game) a Conscious brand!

(Highest) meaning GOD & performing at the Highest level in life at whatever you do.

(Game) is an acronym standing for: Giving Another Man Encouragement. When we say man, it’s not gender specific, it means humanity.

(The chess pieces) merging together symbolizes UNITY- all coming together in love and peace to achieve a common goal.

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Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Syence Lab Studios
Movies
National Harbor
Sports N Learning Complex
Monument
Eddie Vs
New Impressionz Show
Woodmoore Town center

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Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give a shoutout to God above all, as without Him, I am nothing. Thanks to my city for its culture and life lessons. Gary Edomonds taught me respect, togetherness, and loyalty. My Dad instilled in me hard work, drive, fearlessness, and freedom, helping me find my voice. James Herring, Celestine Wilson, and Carolyn Smallwood inspired me to pursue my calling as a Councilman. Delencia Hairston supported me during tough times, and Grandma Pat has always been by my side.

Big brother Judah showed me another side of myself as an artist and inspired everyone around him. My children, Amiel and Morgan, gave me vision and heart. OG Black believed in and supported me. My Glenarden Brothers and sisters are my superheroes and biggest support system.

My music journey began with my Badnewz brothers and Kev Lee, the engineer, who gave me my first shot. Thanks to my fans, family, and supporters from the DMV and beyond. Special thanks to show venues and features. Shoutout to Charles walking me through the word of God.

Gratitude to fellow council members, governing bodies, aunts, and women in my life for their influence. My mother taught me strength, and my siblings gave me something to lead at home. Thanks to my cousins, especially J.Tele, for their support. Shoutout to the lessons from pain and to Shoutout LA for welcoming me!

Website: https://Teamrdr.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reesedarealist/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maurice-hairston-8b08a9301/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ReeseDaRealist

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Reese-Hairston/pfbid02YDQ23ZYzaw4iERQN7rUM9ETRrEJTfysivNeMQoUMXQbR3nERgwdWWRfKn78YFM7Ll/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HighestGame

Other: https://linktr.ee/ReeseDaRealist

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Image Credits
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