{"href":"https://api.simplecast.com/oembed?url=https%3A%2F%2Fquartertones.simplecast.com%2Fepisodes%2Fakala-sole-dxb-RBvzp5wX","width":444,"version":"1.0","type":"rich","title":"Decoding Empires: Akala on Hip Hop & South-South Solidarity","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_url":"https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/1ce0a58c-3e05-4d4b-a2e7-f3ffb869b215/f5738991-e57c-41b2-8197-4fc8d48be022/quartertones.jpg","thumbnail_height":300,"provider_url":"https://simplecast.com","provider_name":"Simplecast","html":"<iframe src=\"https://player.simplecast.com/6af3f81e-76f2-4e65-809d-7ead692d77ab\" height=\"200\" width=\"100%\" title=\"Decoding Empires: Akala on Hip Hop &amp; South-South Solidarity\" frameborder=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\"></iframe>","height":200,"description":"Rapper, writer, and thought leader Akala joins us on Quartertones live at Sole DXB to talk about his early career steps in London, the city's unique blends due to its history, and his drive to connect with diverse audiences. He shares insights into the impact of colonialism and the importance of embracing shared cultural heritage from Shakespeare to his Jamaican influences. We discuss the significance of South-South solidarity and the changing nature of global power dynamics. Akala reflects on the complexities of identity, privilege, and the evolving cultural landscape in Europe. "}