New Orleans-based band the Soul Rebels is making waves in the hip-hop scene by collaborating with some of the industry’s most iconic and progressive artists. The band’s presence in hip-hop culture has been significant, and they continue to break new ground with their upcoming performances.

According to Marcus Hubbard, one of the band’s members, “hip-hop has always been a part of the Soul Rebels’ music.” The Rebels collaborated with hip-hop artists in the ’90s when the genre took off. Although it took time for people to adjust to the blending of jazz and hip-hop, the band now feels that respect and recognition are starting to pick up by working with hip-hop legends such as Black Star (Mos Def & Talib Kweli), who the band will open for on April 28 at Mahalia Jackson Theater.

The Soul Rebels have collaborated with countless legendary and progressive hip-hop artists, including Nas. The band’s most memorable collaborations have been with Rakim, whom they hold in high esteem for their contributions to the hip-hop culture and recently performed with at Tipitina’s.

Over time, The Soul Rebels’ style has evolved, and they have picked up the importance of bringing “flavor” and energy when collaborating and performing with hip-hop artists. The band’s involvement in hip-hop and the culture’s ever-growing popularity has aided their broader mission as a band, which has always been “to be a premiere artist on the main stage.” 

The band’s hip-hop culture involvement has positively impacted their fan base, particularly in New Orleans. The band has shown the local scene that they have many dimensions, and their fans should come to their shows with an open mind.

As the 50th anniversary of hip-hop approaches, The Soul Rebels plan to celebrate and honor this milestone by honoring hip-hop in all their shows, even at hardcore jazz venues. Lumar LeBlanc, another band member, said, “Hip-Hop is as important as any other art form, and it’s here to stay.”

The Soul Rebels continue to inspire the movement and culture of hip-hop, and their upcoming performance with Wu-Tang Clan this Jazz Fest this year is a testament to the band’s ability to adapt to any style while keeping their integrity as a group.