Akala
Akala
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Akala's full name is Chenzira Akala, but he is commonly known by his stage name, Akala. He is also a member of the influential hip-hop group, The Cypher.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on October 21, 1983, in London, England, Akala is an active artist to this day.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Akala is British of Nigerian descent, making him a proud representative of both cultures. He is a rapper, singer, songwriter, poet, historian, and educator.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in the East End of London, Akala was exposed to a diverse range of cultural influences from an early age. His parents, who were both students at the time, encouraged his interest in music and literature. Akala's love for hip-hop began when he was just 10 years old, listening to artists like The Notorious B.I.G. and Tupac Shakur.
As a teenager, Akala became involved with the UK's underground hip-hop scene, performing in cyphers (impromptu rap battles) and writing his own lyrics. He attended the University of East London, where he studied History and graduated with honors.
Major Accomplishments
Akala's breakthrough came when he formed The Cypher, a collective of MCs that pushed the boundaries of British hip-hop. Their innovative style blended elements of jazz, soul, and traditional African music, setting them apart from mainstream rap. Akala's solo career took off soon after, with his debut album "Pedagogy of the Oppressed" (2010) receiving critical acclaim.
His subsequent albums, such as "Double Think" (2012), have solidified his position as a leading figure in UK hip-hop. Akala has collaborated with artists like Soweto Kinch and has been praised for his thought-provoking lyrics, which tackle complex issues like racism, social justice, and personal identity.
Notable Works or Actions
In addition to his music, Akala is known for his intellectual pursuits. He holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of London and has taught History at the university level. His work as an educator and lecturer has allowed him to share his expertise on topics ranging from African history to modern politics.
Akala's dedication to social justice is evident through his involvement with organizations like the anti-racist campaign group, Show Racism the Red Card. He has also been a vocal critic of systemic racism within the music industry and beyond.
Impact and Legacy
As one of the most influential figures in UK hip-hop, Akala continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike. His innovative style has paved the way for other innovators like Kano and Lady Leshurr. Akala's commitment to education and social activism has made him a respected figure beyond his musical achievements.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Akala's profound impact on British culture and society is due in part to his unique blend of artistry, intellectualism, and social consciousness. As a rapper, historian, and educator, he embodies the intersectional spirit that defines contemporary Britain. His thought-provoking lyrics and unwavering dedication to justice have made him an enduring figure in UK hip-hop and beyond.
Throughout his career, Akala has demonstrated an unrelenting passion for creativity, knowledge, and social change. As a result, he remains widely quoted and remembered as a true original and a beacon of hope for those seeking positive transformation through art and activism.
Quotes by Akala
Akala's insights on:
The concept of whiteness goes hand in hand with the concept of white supremacy – hence why the progress against white supremacy that has been made so far feels, to some white people, like an attack on their identity.
Are we really trying to encourage and normalise black academic excellence in the UK? Or would we prefer the extra cost of imprisonment and crime that comes further down the line after neglect, just so one can still feel superior?
I also feel this same unquantifiable phenomenon in the Caribbean; there is a cultural and spiritual freedom that people have growing up in a place that they feel belongs to them and they belong to, however severe the material challenges in that place may be.
While Britain has preserved the HMS Victory as a tribute to Nelson, as well as other ships from key periods of British history, not a single slave ship survives.- You have to stand in awe of the intellectual obedience it takes to still cheer for empire after the revelation that the government hid or burned a good portion of the evidence of what that empire actually consisted of, but such is the use to which we put our free thinking.
Real-life racism makes you paranoid, even in children it creates the dilemma of not knowing if someone is just being horrible in the ‘normal’ way, as people so often are, or if you are being ‘blacked off’ - as me and my friends call it.
But when a given group is used to having all of the political power, and virtually unlimited privilege to define and name the world, any power sharing, any obligation to hear the opinions of formerly ‘subject races’ - who would have once been called uppity niggers and lynched accordingly - can feel like oppression.
Good people are not racist, only bad people are. This neat binary is a great way of avoiding any real discussion at all. But without the structural violence of unequal treatment before the law and in education, and a history of racial exploitation by states, simple acts of personal prejudice would have significantly less meaning.
The officer's question already let me know that in his eyes I was dirt; that is, matter out of place.
Is state education designed to encourage more Darwins and Newtons, or to create middle-management civil servants and workers? What tensions are brought into being when a child’s natural proclivity to question everything in their own unique way comes into contact with a one-size-fits-all mode of education?