Description:

The incredible journey of the hip-hop group the Bataka Squad, who use hip-hop to spread awareness of their country's troubles, and to offer positive alternatives for the youth. Narrator Michael Franti, of Spearhead, guides us through an incredible journey from the riot-torn streets of Uganda to remote villages in the countryside and finally to the concrete jungle of the United States.

Babaluku and Saba Saba are the two remaining members of the Bataka Squad, Uganda’s first major hip hop group to rap in their native language, Luganda. We follow as Silas returns to his homeland to set up a charity foundation for young people living in Uganda’s ghettos, while Krazy concentrates on spreading their message to the international hip hop community. On the way we meet a host of other socially conscious hip hop artists from all over the world who use the microphone as a platform for change.

The voice of a new generation and heroes of their community, they are active, enthusiastic, and energetic young people more concerned about global change than the amount of change in their pockets. Their music teaches struggle with optimism and remaining positive against seemingly insufferable odds presenting a refreshing contrast to American commercialized "bling bling" gangster rap. Q&A.

In association with the Hip Hop Association.
Community Collaborators: hiphopradio.net; Poetess Media

About the Director:

Brett Mazurek started directing skateboarding and snowboarding videos in the late 90’s, quickly developing his signature urban style. Already established as a prominent DJ it was a natural transition to Hip-Hop music videos and concert series. He worked with acts including WuTang Clan, Onyx, De La Soul, KRS-One and Cypress Hill. Brett has most recently directed the first episode of the Rising Sun Reggae DVD Magazine, featuring Jah Mason, Michael Franti and Luciano, as well as a new web reality series, “Virtuality”, starring YouTube’s indie rock superstar Terra Naomi. His raw guerrilla style and natural ability to adapt to any situation allows him to capture intimate human moments, allowing the viewer to escape in his cinematic vision.