The Southbank Centre celebrates hip-hop this summer with a dynamic programme of concerts, debates, workshops and parties spanning the four pillars of hip-hop – b-boying, MCing, DJing and graffiti.
Intelligent Movement builds on the excitement and hunger the UK has for hip-hop, inviting a mix of UK and international artists to contribute to a weekend of events that will take place across the site. Expect battles on The Clore Ballroom, DJs on the terraces and iconic pioneers of hip-hop leading masterclasses, performing on stage and contributing to debates.
The event which runs from July 14th to the 17th, kicks off with an in depth history of hip-hop from British rapper Akala. This innovative 40-minute presentation hosted by the respected UK hip-hop artist and MOBO Award-winner Akala examines hip-hop music and the art of rapping within the context of oral musical traditions – from jazz and reggae all the way back to the Griots of the medieval Malian empire.
The presentation also features a special performance by Akala alongside the talented multi-instrumentalist, composer and singer Sona Jobarteh, who is a member of one of the five principal kora-playing (Griot) families from West Africa and is the first female kora player from this prestigious musical family.
image source
![[competition] Signed copy of AKS 'The Bus Stop' EP](https://www.thenublk.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/akscomp_slider.jpg)