Reflections on Bambaataa

by Rachel Wacker

How many times do we go through life without having our say, or making our mark? The chapter we read this week in Can’t Stop Won’t Stop introduced many, like me, to Afrika Bambaataa a man who would change the lives of multitudes. As so many lost their way, he created the footprints in the path of the Zulu Nation. I really appreciated the explanation of the Zulus, “right knowledge, right wisdom, right’ overstanding’ and right sound reasoning” and with these principles people were less likely to fall prey to ingenious approaches.
Afrika Bambaataa like many came from humble beginnings, but unlike so many he was sensitive to how he could make a difference. Succumbing to the world of gangs at a young age, he demonstrated a unique approach to communication, one that transcended the boundaries and demanded respect. The transitions of the Zulu Nation have made it a well-known organization in the emergence of hip hop. Just like the true origins of hip hop, the beginnings of the Zulu Nation have been lost in the pathways of history. Those doing an in depth study of areas such as hip hop unearth the true beginnings of profound people and ideas.
The article “Manifestations of Afrocentricity in Rap Music” was an in depth, well-articulated compilation of pertinent information regarding rap music. Some of the terminology was new to me, and in all of the characteristics relating to nommo allows for individuals, such as me, to grasp a better understanding of vital aspects of the genre. I walk away from this article reaffirming my belief that rap music is a means of definition, understanding, and advancement of the African American rhetoric.
Each week I am astounded at the tremendous depths we discover as we examine the transcendence of a once criticized, overwhelmingly popular genre of music. In the words of Afrika Bambaataa and his organization we are to do our best to survive in life, be tolerant of others, to know and teach truth all the while respecting others and striving for peace and contentment in yourself and with others. These are principles that each of us no matter our faith or race should strive to achieve on a daily basis.