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Talib Kweli, the influential rapper and activist hailing from Brooklyn, is set to bring his dynamic presence and thought-provoking lyrics to the stage at the Arsht Center on February 4 at 7:30 p.m. Born Talib Kweli Greene, his NYC roots infuse his music with a genuine connection to its cultural landscape.
Kweli will be the icing on the fifth annual Heritage Fest cake earlier that day – an afternoon of free activities for the whole family, including rap improv and musical theater choreography workshops, dance workshops featuring Afro-Venezuelan and Haitian Folkloric dancers, Egyptian Yoga and performances by Miami-based street dance crew Live in Color, music by The W’s featuring Johnny James a.k.a Dr. J, and DJ Cardi.
This fifth annual Heritage Fest focuses on African Americans and the Arts, spanning the many impacts Black Americans have had on visual arts, music, cultural movements and more. It will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Thomson Plaza for the Arts.
Once people argued about the staying power of hip-hop. Much to the delight of future rappers, little did my hometown friend Dirty Albert Williams know that, in 1979, when he borrowed Chic’s guitar lick from “Good Times,” it would be a gift to a near half century of rapping. The argument went like this: hip-hop is a fad; how can it compete with disco considering Chic, the Bee Gees “Stayin’ Alive,” Donna Summer’s “Last Dance,” and Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive”? LOL, the pollsters were wrong.
Talib Kweli emerged during the late ‘90s and early 2000s, a period rich with influential hip-hop artists. Some of his contemporaries include:
1. Jay-Z: Hip-hop royalty with whom Kweli collaborated on various occasions.
2. Mos Def (Yasiin Bey): Collaborated with Kweli before acting.
3. Common: Known for socially conscious lyrics, like Kweli.
4. The Roots: A Philadelphia-based group with a live approach and conscious themes. Jimmy Fallon’s house band.
5. Kanye West: Initially a producer for Kweli, Kanye became notorious in his own right.
6. Nas: Notable for his impactful storytelling and lyrical prowess.
7. Lauryn Hill: Known for her work with The Fugees, she had a significant impact on hip-hop and R&B. Local heroine of sorts.
One of Kweli’s standout tracks, “Get By,” not only showcases his lyrical prowess but also serves as a reflection of his personal journey. Kweli’s live show promises to be a captivating experience, bringing the soulful beats and insightful lyrics of “Get By” to life. The concert provides an opportunity for fans to witness firsthand the fusion of socially conscious narratives and cool musical vibes that define Kweli’s artistry.
As he continues to evolve and inspire, the Heritage Fest and stage at the Arsht are set to come alive with the powerful combination of Kweli’s background, his impactful message, his cool timeless essence, and our community heritage.
Heritage Fest is free. For Kweli tickets go to https://www.arshtcenter.org/tickets/2023-2024/live-at-knight/an-evening-with-talib-kweli/
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