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Berlin-Bronx Connection–Expanding Worlds Through Hip Hop
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From its humble beginnings the south Bronx, Hip Hop has–in its 30 or so years of existence–touched almost every nation in the world. But kids in the Bronx have been historically stuck there. Until now.
Started by Olad Aden, The Berlin-Bronx Connection program brings Bronx youth to Berlin (and conversely Berlin youth to the Bronx). For many young Berliners, their travel to New York is a pilgrimage of sorts, experiencing the urban culture that created the art form they know and love. For the New Yorkers, however, Berlin is a sampling of a world they may never have known otherwise.
Both Berlin and the Bronx are, by all definitions, metropolitan, with a vibrant and rich culture that includes hip hop music. It is easy to become insulated in either world–easier still for youth hailing from impoverished backgrounds and low likelihood for travel beyond the end of the subway line. This program extends, at least temporarily, the opportunity for youth to absorb a culture so different from their own, but with a vein of similarity that pulsates–like a bass line–between them.
The children, facilitated by the coordinators and directors of Berlin-Bronx Connection, make music together–recording beats and verses, producing music videos, and taking part in a full fledged production process. Given free reign to speak their minds, the directors guide the youth to create music that is true to themselves and their struggles. And the result is fantastic.
Check out “Trading Bars” below.
UPDATE:
Check out the kids talk about the program after an event at the American Embassy in Berlin.
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