how it all started
Who we are
In the heart of South Minneapolis, The Legacy Building isn’t just a space—it’s a revolution in creativity, culture, and connection. Founded by Emmanuel and Fancy Lanier-Duncan, this hub pulses with the spirit of liberation and empowerment, offering a home where Black artists and communities thrive without limits.
The story began, like many great ones do, with a moment of serendipity. In December 2021, Emmanuel was out for coffee when a “For Rent” sign caught his eye. Frustrated by the limitations of their basement studio and driven by a vision for something greater, he and Fancy took a leap of faith.
With no roadmap but unshakable belief, they stepped into the unknown, determined to create a space where Black creatives could feel safe, seen, and celebrated.
What they’ve built is nothing short of extraordinary. The Legacy Building has become a modular playground for the creative mind, offering everything from rehearsal rooms and recording studios to event spaces and art exhibitions. “It’s built by creatives, for creatives,” Emmanuel says. “We wanted a place where no one felt boxed in—where possibilities are endless.”
This isn’t just a building. It’s a revolution, led by two creatives who dared to dream big and bring their community with them.
Fancy and Emmanuel’s journey is deeply personal, a tapestry of creativity woven from the roots of their upbringing. Emmanuel speaks of his late sister with reverence; she wasn’t just a sibling but his first mentor in rap, igniting his love for music and storytelling. For Fancy, her mother was one of her first mentors, instilling the value of creativity and self-expression early on. Together, their paths were shaped by a deep love for creativity and a drive to turn every moment into something meaningful—a drive that now fuels their shared vision.
But their work doesn’t stop at music. For over a decade, they’ve built CRWN Media into a powerhouse in the creative industry, offering video, photo, audio, and design services that reflect their passion for storytelling and their commitment to reshaping narratives. Their projects span everything from capturing the resilience of marginalized communities to helping clients bring their visions to life with precision and heart.
In 2022, their dedication to community took a new form with the creation of the Soul of the Southside Festival. What began as a celebration of The Legacy Building’s grand opening has grown into a cultural cornerstone, attracting over 10,000 attendees to honor Black creativity, connection, and liberation. The festival is more than an event—it’s an extension of their mission to empower and uplift through the transformative power of art and culture.
“Our work is about liberation,” Fancy explains. “It’s about being free to create, express, and share—not just for ourselves, but for others.”
What sets The Legacy Building apart is its authenticity. Every inch of the space reflects Emmanuel and Fancy’s values: freedom, creativity, and the power of community. Step inside, and you’ll hear the hum of collaboration, the laughter of community gatherings, and the rhythms of innovation echoing through its walls.
As parents to three children—including a vibrant 4-year-old—they bring the same dedication to their family as they do to their community. Their vision for the future is bold: to deepen collaborations, expand access to resources, and solidify The Legacy Building as a cultural beacon that inspires future generations.
“We see ourselves as leaders,” Emmanuel says. “Not just for today, but for the future. If enough people are inspired, imagine the beauty that could come from it.”
When you step into The Legacy Building, you’re stepping into a vision—a space where dreams are amplified, stories are shared, and a lasting legacy is being built. This isn’t just a building. It’s a revolution, led by two creatives who dared to dream big and bring their community with them.
iLLism (Emmanuel and Fancy) Performing at The MN State Fair in 2024
iLLism (Emmanuel and Fancy) Performing at Green Room In Uptown MPLS, 2023.