News: Afrika Bambaataa Co-Signs New Indian Artist

the1shanti is a pioneer of sorts in his own right for being the first New York rapper of Indian descent to bring hip hop to India. The young rapper cites Afrika Bambaataa's fearlessly innovative and torch bearing spirit as one of the main influences in his career.

the1shanti is gearing up to release a new album, entitled India Bambaataa, which Afrika Bambaataa has given his blessing in use of the title.

"You have our blessings (Afrika Bambaataa and The Universal Zulu Nation) as long as you use your name in the good of your people and the good of yourself," Bambaataa told the young rapper. "You have our blessings as long as you make whatever funky music you make to rock/funk the world. You have our blessings as long as you use your mind, body and soul to use your music as a tool to fight for justice for our Indian brothers and sisters who have a lot of problems in India and need a person like you, who is starting to get international status, to speak out about our Indian heritage and not let no one in the world forget your roots and your people's roots."

the1shanti took a trip to India and it changed his life. He released his larger responsibility as an artist to educate Indians about the true nature of hip-hop as an art form. Beyond his passion for hip-hop, the1shanti realized in embracing his Indian roots that it was his responsibility to hold himself to a higher standard as an artist.

"Hip-hop is the most influential force of our generation," said the young artist. "Bambaataa's blessing lets me know I'm playing an important role in pushing the boundaries of how far hip hop can grow."

With Afrika Bambaataa's backing, the1shanti is pushing full steam ahead in the November release of his debut album, India Bambaataa, on Flatbush Junction Recordings.

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