Hip Hop Congress

By: Alexander Fruchter
Published: Jan. 20, 2007 - Chicago, IL
http://soundslam.com/articles/news/news.php?news=070120_bamsch

Afrika Bambaataa is the leader of the Universal Zulu Nation, a multi-talented artist, and one of the founders of Hip Hop culture. On Thursday January 18th, Bambaataa spoke to Elementary students on Chicago’s Southside. His message included a history of Hip Hop, the power of knowledge and understanding, and his outlook on the future of Hip Hop.

Bambaataa spoke for about 45 minutes, and was preceded by entertainment from the Hip Hop Congress of Chicago, and the Stick and Move Dance Crew. The students were treated to freestyles, b-boy showcases, as well as music from DJ Man-O-Wax. The Hip Hop Congress members also explained what they were doing, and invited students to participate.

During his meeting with 3-8th grade students at Henderson Elementary, Bamabaata was calm and caring as he answered questions about his life, his inspirations, and his views on the current state of Hip Hop. He discussed his transformation from the leader of the Black Spades to the father of Hip Hop culture, and informed students of the five elements of Hip Hop. He also challenged students to think about the language they hear, and use in everyday life, and accept from Hip Hop artists. Bambaataa also paid his respects to James Brown, and cited the Godfather of Soul as one of his main influences. He also said that he respects current Hip Hop artists who are not afraid to think outside the box, get into character, and stretch the boundaries. Busta Rhymes, Ludacris, Missy Elliot, and Mystikal were a few of the artists that Bambattaa used to illustrate his point.

The meeting was sponsored by the school’s Youth Guidance team of KJ Walker, and John Covington, and also featured Chicago Zulu Nation member, Lord Cashius D. Before leaving the school, Bambaata signed their copy of the Hip Hop Declaration of Peace, and took pictures with the students.