July 6th: Today’s Feature

July

Kingslee James McLean Daley, known by his stage name Akala, is a multifaceted individual hailing from Kentish Town, London. Not only is he a talented rapper, but he is also a journalist, author, activist, and poet. His diverse skill set has garnered him recognition and accolades over the years, including being named the Best Hip Hop Act at the MOBO Awards in 2006 and being featured on the prestigious Powerlist of the 100 most influential Black British individuals in the UK, with his most recent inclusion in the 2021 edition.

Early Life & Education

Born in Crawley, West Sussex, in 1983 to a Scottish mother and Jamaican father, Akala's upbringing was shaped by his mixed heritage. Raised by his mother in Kentish Town, north London, he had a unique perspective on race and identity. Despite his mother's efforts to educate him about black history and introduce him to radical black thinkers, Akala still grappled with issues of race, particularly when he realised his mother was white. This realisation led to moments of embarrassment and self-reflection, highlighting the complexities of his background.

Akala's early exposure to the arts, particularly through his stepfather's work as a stage manager at the Hackney Empire theatre, played a significant role in shaping his interests and passions. Additionally, his enrolment in a pan-African Saturday school provided him with a strong foundation in black community-led education, fostering his intellectual curiosity and self-development from a young age. Akala credits the Caribbean pan-African community for supporting him through his educational journey and instilling in him a sense of cultural pride and intellectual growth.

Daley's educational journey began at age six when he was placed in a special needs group at his state primary school due to learning difficulties and English being his second language. Despite facing challenges, he later attended Acland Burghley School for his secondary education. At the age of 12, Daley witnessed a friend being attacked with a meat cleaver, which led him to carry a knife for a period of time. However, he managed to excel academically, achieving ten GCSEs and even taking his math exam a year early, and being included in the top 1% of GCSE students in the country with a perfect score in English.

During his teenage years, Daley shifted his focus to football, being scouted by both West Ham United and AFC Wimbledon. He eventually dropped out of college to pursue his passion for the sport, showcasing his dedication and talent. Despite not pursuing higher education, Daley has expressed admiration for those who attend university, acknowledging the value of academic achievement.

2003 - 2009: Early Years & Breakthrough

Daley adopted his stage name from Acala, a Buddhist term meaning "immovable", and embarked on his music career in 2003 through his own independent music label, Illa State Records. His debut mixtape, The War Mixtape, was released in 2004, marking the beginning of his journey in the music industry.

In 2006, he achieved a significant milestone with the release of his first album, It's Not a Rumour. This album was a turning point in his career, featuring the hit single "Shakespeare" which earned a spot on the BBC Radio 1 playlist. His talent and hard work were duly recognised when he received the MOBO Award for Best Hip Hop Act. Furthermore, in the same year, he dropped a mixtape titled A Little Darker under the moniker "Illa State", collaborating with Akala, his sister Ms. Dynamite, and various other artists.

Daley showcased his lyrical prowess during a live session on BBC Radio 1Xtra, where he was challenged to incorporate as many Shakespeare play titles as possible into a rap. In an impressive display of creativity, he crafted a minute-long rap featuring 27 different Shakespeare play titles in less than thirty minutes. This remarkable feat led to the creation of the single "Comedy Tragedy History", showcasing his unique style and innovative approach to music.

In recognition of his contributions to education, Daley has been awarded two honorary degrees. He received an honorary doctorate from Oxford Brookes University in June 2018, being recognised as a Doctor of Art. Additionally, in July of the same year, he was honoured with another degree from Brighton University, highlighting his commitment to making a difference in the field of education. Daley's journey serves as an inspiration, showcasing that determination and hard work can lead to remarkable achievements.

Book: Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire

In his book Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire, Daley delves into the intricate relationship between race, class, and imperialism. He presents a compelling argument that challenges the notion of meritocracy in Britain, shedding light on the systemic barriers that hinder the progress of marginalised communities.

Daley's narrative is not just a personal account of his own journey, but a broader critique of the global system of imperialism that perpetuates inequality and injustice. By emphasising the shared struggles of African communities worldwide, he underscores the need for a collective effort to dismantle oppressive structures and strive for liberation.

Through his socialist-oriented Pan-Africanist perspective, Daley advocates for a more equitable society that transcends race and class divisions. He confronts the myth of meritocracy and exposes the harsh realities faced by those who are marginalised due to structural racism and class oppression, urging readers to rethink their understanding of success and privilege.

Hip and Hop: You Can Do Anything

Daley's Akala character places a strong emphasis on community organising, which is at the heart of his identity. His primary focus is on nurturing and empowering a new generation of individuals who possess the qualities of free-thinkers, activists, and creatives. In line with this mission, Daley has authored a captivating children's book called "Hip and Hop: You Can Do Anything," which serves as an introduction to hip-hop for school kids. Through this book, he aims to inspire young minds and instil in them the belief that they can achieve anything they set their minds to.

Activism: The Hip-hop Shakespeare Company

Daley has an impressive track record of sharing his knowledge and expertise with various prestigious institutions around the world. He has delivered guest lectures at renowned universities such as East 15 Acting School, University of Essex, Manchester Metropolitan University, Sydney University, Sheffield Hallam University, Cardiff University, and the International Slavery Museum.

Additionally, he conducted a captivating workshop on songwriting at the esteemed School of Oriental and African Studies. Not only has Daley showcased his speaking prowess at academic institutions, but he has also had the privilege of addressing the esteemed audience at the Oxford Union. His contributions extend beyond academia, as he actively participates in campaigns to "decolonise" the curriculum, even delivering a thought-provoking talk at the University of Leicester.

Daley's passion for combating institutionalised racism is evident in his unwavering belief that awareness is key to overcoming the hurdles it presents. He firmly asserts that his analysis of institutionalised racism is not an excuse for failure, but rather a means to empower individuals to navigate and triumph over these obstacles. By acknowledging and understanding the challenges posed by institutionalised racism, Daley believes that individuals can better equip themselves to overcome them. His perspective highlights the importance of early awareness, as it allows individuals to develop the necessary skills and strategies to successfully navigate the complexities of a racially biased system.

In 2009, Daley founded The Hip-hop Shakespeare Company (THSC), a groundbreaking music theatre production company. This innovative venture aims to explore the intriguing parallels between the works of William Shakespeare and modern-day hip-hop artists. By bridging the gap between these seemingly disparate art forms, Daley and his company delve into the social, cultural, and linguistic connections that exist between them. THSC's mission is to challenge conventional notions of art and culture, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for both Shakespearean literature and contemporary hip-hop. Through their unique productions, Daley and his team strive to create a platform that celebrates the rich tapestry of human expression and creativity.