Today we’re launching Underground, presented by Yahoo! News, a new initiative that explores America’s fringe cultures with reporting brought to life with original songs and music. Beginning today, April 1, you can visit underground.yahoo.com to check out videos, photos, slideshows, and blog posts about the world of the weird, the strangely compelling, the land of “who are these people?” Ever heard of “drifting,” “krumping,” or “rocketeering”? “Filkers” and “furries” (see the video below)? Tempted by what goes on at a sci-fi convention? Underground takes quirky to new heights, giving you the chance to duck into cultures and ideas well beyond the beaten path. Some might even leave you asking, “WTF?”

Our host, creator and fearless leader into these unexplored worlds is veteran journalist, Broadway gypsy, and Renaissance man Brad Miskell. Brad embeds himself in fringe cultures so he can share the most outlandish stories of people pursuing their passions. He scours big cities and back waters alike to bring us some incredible tales. With an eye for the unusual and an ear to the ground, Brad shapes stories with a witty and light-hearted compassion for his subjects. In addition to filming, editing, and reporting every Underground segment, Brad also composes original musical pieces with his stories, which is why we call him the “rock-n-raconteur.”

The coolest part about Underground is that we’re looking to you, dear reader, to help us feed the beast. We’ll be scouring the planet and we want your goods — send us your awesome photos and videos as they relate to the subcultures we’re covering. Or contribute media about your own strangely compelling passions. After all, today we’re covering Trekkies, tomorrow could be your Aunt Myrtle’s lawnmower racing and speed-metal club. And if it’s not for you, that’s fine — we call it Underground for a reason.

Go ahead, let your freak flag fly.

Cyrus Krohn
Director of Production
Yahoo! News & Information