A student checks cables on a drum set
Waayaha Cusub members and guest performers visited with students in Darlene St Clair’s and Beth Berila’s classes during the group’s residency with The Cedar Cultural Center.
Waayaha Cusub, a Somali hip-hop collective founded in Kenya in 2004 by lyricist and rapper Shiine Akhyaar Ali.
The group’s message challenges militants and extremist politics. Waayaha Cusub is recognized for its artistry as well as its activism. As leaders who speak out against war, violence and oppressive leadership, the artists have endured death threats and violent attacks.
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Group members spoke about trying to make social change using hip hop by producing songs that bring awareness about al-Shabaab,women’s rights and education.
The group was the first to perform and release hip hop music in Somalia and speak out against al-Shabaab. The group now uses technology to release its music.
Later in the day, group members held a panel discussion with members of the Somali Student Association for the campus community.
Next week members will work with Terry Vermillion’s world drumming class, work with groups throughout the community and do a live in-studio performance on KVSC 88.1 from 4-6 p.m. Oct. 31.
The group will end its St. Cloud residency with a performance at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 4 at the Paramount Theatre, 913 W. St. Germain St.Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 the day of the show and are available through the Paramount website. Admission for students with a St. Cloud State ID is $15 for a guaranteed ticket purchased in advance or free with ID the day of the show. All other college and high school students receive a 25 percent discount with ID.
The residency and performance is part of the 2016-17 Creative Art Series.
