New Orleans is in the throes of a consequential gubernatorial run-off election between incumbent Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards and Eddie Rispone. The outcome will determine whether the state will remain in the hands of a Democratic leader or a Republican challenger.
In a historic pre-election one-on-one conversation, Governor Edwards will speak with New Orleans rapper Dee-1, an event signifying the importance of hip-hop’s role in influencing much of the voter base. For anyone who’s been paying attention, hip-hop has become the world’s most predominant culture, expanding its reach well beyond music and into politics. In what is simply one small example, legendary Houston rapper Bradley “Scarface” Jordan of the Geto Boys has forced a run-off election in his hometown, thanks to his success in running for a City Council position. In the 2016 presidential election, Atlanta rapper Michael “Killer Mike” Render played a significant role in popularizing Senator Bernie Sanders as a candidate.
On Wednesday, November 13, Dee-1 will represent hip-hop and its interests as he discusses healthcare, education and criminal justice reform (among other political issues) with Governor Edwards, in Baton Rouge. The monumental event happens just three days before Edwards faces Rispone in November 16’s run-off election.
“I realize that this interview will make history by my being the very first Louisiana hip-hop artist to sit down one on one with our state’s governor to publicly discuss his stances on important political issues,’ says Dee-1. “It’s important that we have representation inside of politics so that our perspectives and life experiences are accounted for when politicians make decisions about our future.”
Dee-1, who graced the cover of OffBeat in March 2012, is currently enjoying his greatest charting success to date with his 2019 album, God and Girls. For more information, click here.
