Cultivating Spaces for Authenticity in Hip-Hop with Eavesdrop | The Hip-Hop African Podcast

PodcastsCultural Diplomacy
Written By Dr. Msia Clark

Cape Town’s Eavesdrop discusses the complexities of navigating representation & authenticity; listen below!

In this interview, we had an important conversation with Eavesdrop about the importance of representation and authenticity. We talked honestly about sometimes feeling conflicted about how best to support younger artists, especially women. Strength and confidence are a prerequisite for being a hip-hop artist, and we reflect on how to support other women while encouraging them to rely on their own strength and confidence to excel.

Eavesdrop is a multi-hyphenate artist who is an MC, producer, director, and actor. She has been active in Cape Town’s hip-hop scene for almost two decades, and as a lyricist, she produces meaningful lyrics, expressing ideas that have depth.

Dr. Msia Clark

Dr. Msia Kibona Clark is an Associate Professor in the African Studies Department at Howard University. Her research explores themes such as hip-hop in Africa, African feminism‌ and the influence of social movements on cultural production. Msia has published several articles, book chapters‌ and reviews in academic journals and popular media outlets. Her book, “Hip-Hop in Africa: Prophets of the City and Dustyfoot Philosophers,” has been widely acclaimed and has gained recognition for its groundbreaking analysis of hip-hop in Africa. Her work not only sheds light on rich and diverse African hip-hop communities, but also addresses critical social issues. Her recent book, “African Women in Digital Spaces” explores the use of social media for advocacy by women across Africa and the diaspora. In addition to her academic pursuits, she has curated exhibitions on African culture and photography and is the host of “The Hip Hop African Podcast.”

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