Rapping to make a difference

Brimming with talent, four enthusiastic teenage rappers from Shillong, gear up to be a part of Hip-Hop Homeland’s web series, which was launched on December 14, 2016 with an anthem song. With their focus on North-east India, Hip-Hop Homeland has dedicated itself to the underground rap scene in the country. Transcending class and culture, they have received an overwhelming response at events conducted in Mumbai, and have now shifted gaze to Shillong. The Symphonic Movement, is one among the many, yet a very impressive team, to be featured along with other artists on the 101 India’s YouTube Channel.

The group consists of Meailin Shanpru, Ibamelari Kharsohnoh, Adonihosea Kharbithai, George, and Iarilang Shanpru all between age groups 13-21. Led by Praiselyson Lyngskor, the group raps about society and everyday life struggles. Praiselyson says, “Our music talks of daily life’s stress, but ends with a solution. This gives it a positive connotation, instilling hope to those who listen.”

With a passion for music as a teenager, Praiselyson was introduced to hip-hop through a friend. After going through a rough patch in his life, Praiselyson researched on artists who rap for a cause. “I found myself composing and writing my own songs, after which, one day I heard Iari rapping in my house, he was the first kid I recruited. After him, the rest followed and the Symphonic Movement was born.”

Hip Hop Homeland, in their North-east series will feature artists and crews like Khasi Bloodz, Cryptographik Street Poets and B-boy Kim. They will also bring to you an interesting union of rap and Baul music composed by popular rapper Feyago. However, the highlight of the series is the 13-year-old rapper Iarilang (Iari), from Symphony Movement who is possibly the youngest artist rapping about social issues in India.

For 13-year-old Iari, listening to Chris Brown was a huge influence. “It all started when I first heard the single With You, after which each and every hip-hop song interested me. Soon after which, Praiselyson gave me his lyrics to rap with,” he says. His excitement could not be contained when the 101 India team met him at his house to know about his passion for rapping. He says, “When my mother saw the cameras being brought in, she was thrilled about the idea of a video being made with me in it. As long as I study, my parents are always supportive of my passion.”