How Tanzanian creatives celebrated 50 years of hip-hop
The pulsating beats of hip-hop reverberated through the walls of Alliance Francaise in Dar es Salaam on October 5, marking a momentous occasion: the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. Hosted by Mkuki N Nyota at their monthly event, ‘Kalam Salaam’, the celebration featured a riveting panel discussion, open mic performances, and a vibrant celebration of Tanzanian hip-hop culture.
The panel discussion, led by up-and-coming podcaster and poetess Lizana Kafiwa, featured esteemed personalities including Kibacha Singo (KBC), an influential figure in Tanzania's hip-hop scene since the 90s; Gego Master, a prolific author and hip-hop philosopher; and Steven Moruo (Moruoking), a beloved hip-hop analyst and radio host.
The discussion explored the profound impact of hip-hop on Tanzanian society, highlighting its intricate connections with culture and language. KBC, a luminary in the Tanzanian hip-hop community, emphasized how hip-hop had reshaped the auditory landscape, even influencing the sounds of "Bongo Flava."
Gego Master passionately elucidated the significance of rap and beatbox, emphasizing their roles as vital artistic expressions and potential avenues for wealth among aspiring artists.
However, amid the celebration, a controversial question loomed: Is hip-hop culture a force for good or is it a contributing factor to the demise of our culture?
The question was posed during the Q&A portion of the event, and the panelists defended their art form, pointing to the Hip-Hop Declaration of Peace, a historic document presented to the United Nations Organization on May 16th, 2001.
Signed by influential organizations such as the Temple Of Hip Hop, Ribbons International, Unesco, and endorsed by 300 hip-hop activists, pioneers, and UN delegates, the declaration stood as a testament to hip-hop's quest for recognition and acceptance in the global arena.
The debate underscored the ongoing struggle faced by hip-hop, particularly against a backdrop of contemporary rap lyrics often criticized for profanity, violence, and derogatory language.
The tension between the artistic freedom and societal responsibility of hip-hop artists still hangs in the balance, reflecting the broader discourse within the hip-hop community.
The night culminated in a crescendo of talent, with KBC and other attendees taking to the stage during the open mic segment.
Their performances electrified the audience, eliciting rounds of applause and jubilation, reminding everyone present of the enduring power of hip-hop to captivate, challenge, and inspire Tanzanians.
As the beats faded into the night, the echoes of this epic celebration lingered, leaving the audience with much to ponder about the complex, multifaceted world of hip-hop and its enduring influence on society.
The celebration was a testament to the transformative power of artistic expression.
The charged atmosphere of creativity and dialogue had sparked something profound within each attendee, and as the event drew to a close, it left an indelible mark, imprinting the hearts and minds of all present as attendees eagerly await the next installment of Kalam Salaam.
