The Code of the Cypher™ is what enables Cypher Univercity to seed cyphers around the world. Much like a Code of Honor that one might find with the Knights of the Round Table, our code brings us together and holds us accountable for the way we carry ourselves. The Code is comprised of the following components:
1) Respect
Honor your fellow artist.
The cypher movement begins and ends with respect. Our cyphers are a place for musicians and lyricists to sharpen their skills, and for observers to experience a beautiful, organic performance.
2. Project
Speak up. Be heard.
Say it with your chest. Many of our cyphers occur in open air amphitheaters, and a voice must carry to be heard by the audience.
3. Keep The Peace
Honor the zones of free expression where cyphers are held.
Respect the locations where you host your cypher. Honor the rules and regulations of each free expression zone, and respect your fellow artists and attendees.
4. Fuck The Camera
Respect the authenticity of a raw performance.
Many people come to a cypher to experience a live, organic hip hop performance. A large part of that performance is the audience interaction that occurs. Don't cut the audience out of the cypher by rapping to someones cellphone or a camera lens.
5. Be Original
Be true to yourself. Share what you know.
There are already enough Jay Z's, Drake's, and MF Doom's out there making music. You are unrepeatable, and the only experience you know is your own. Speak from your authentic zone.