We are delighted to confirm an additional keynote for the upcoming European Hip Hop Studies Conferenceː Emile YX? Joining H. Samy Alim and Joan Morgan on the “In the Hour of Chaos” keynote panel, the South African Hip Hop pioneer and anti-apartheid activist will share his thoughts on Hip Hop activism.

Emile YX? is a pioneering force in South African Hip Hop, beginning as a b-boy in 1982 and going on to found Black Noise Hip Hop Group and Heal the Hood Project. For over four decades, his work has fused culture, education, and activism, from launching landmark events and mentoring 200+ artists to releasing 25+ albums and writing 14 books. Inducted into the South African Hip Hop Hall of Fame, Emile YX? continues to build global bridges between art, scholarship, and community.