Hip Hop in Africa and the African Diaspora with Toni Blackman | Hip Hop African Podcast

This episode is a sit-down conversation with Toni Blackman. Toni is an artist, hip-hop activist, writer, and cultural ambassador. She holds the distinction of being the first hip-hop ambassador to the U.S. State Department, and her work has had a significant impact on the global perception of hip-hop.


 
 

She has decades of experience in the U.S. and throughout Africa. She is one of the most well-traveled and experienced hip-hop artists out there and her work has earned her recognition and respect in hip-hop communities around the world.

We met up at the King Fahd Hotel in Dakar, Senegal this past December to talk about her work and to get her thoughts on hip-hop culture globally and the implications of changes in the industry for hip-hop artists. She talks about the idea of “conscious capitalism” and artists balancing art, business, and social impact.

She also talks about the relationships between hip-hop artists in the Diaspora and hip-hop artists in Africa and offers advice for both. As an artist and activist dedicated to promoting the positive impact of hip-hop and mindfulness, she is recognized for her innovative work and contributions to hip-hop culture. She inspires and engages audiences through her art, education, and social entrepreneurship. Toni Blackman has left an indelible mark on the world of music and cultural diplomacy.

You can find Toni on all major social media platforms, including Instagram, Twitter, and her website.


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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