Nationwide — On a one-way ticket to Africa, Chad Harper left Brooklyn, NY in the fall of 2016. He settled in Kenya where he connected with Kunta Official Beats, a music engineer and producer from Nairobi, Kenya. Kunta became the premier production partner for Harper’s music humanitarian enterprise Hip Hop Saves Lives (HHSL).Harper’s and Kunta’s work caught the attention of a recent Grammy-nominated artist Muzi, one-half of Jabali Afrika who was nominated for “Best Children’s Song” at the 2022 Grammys. Harper had recently come from Sierra Leone where he worked with two disabled rappers (50Don and Prophet) who are survivors of polio. The song “Ability” was recorded speaking out on the plight of the disabled community. Muzi reached out to initiate a collaboration.
Harper suggested he add some additional vocals to their “Ability” track which Muzi is now set to submit the song to the Grammys under “Best Social Change Song” for 2025.
This is the most exciting release HHSL has had to date scheduled in July to honor “Disability Pride Month”. “Ability” is the lead single from an album Muzi, Kunta, and Harper are recording featuring music artists with disabilities from around the world. Harper says the plight of the physically disabled across Africa is shocking but also notes it’s an issue most countries desperately need to better address. Harper has a slightly limited left leg which inspired him to initiate the project. He is also featured on the song as well as Swadu, a celebrity rapper from Sierra Leone who lent her voice to add attention to the project.
HHSL uses hip-hop music to educate, uplift, and inspire youngsters. They have been recording music with youth since 2012 starting in NYC. Harper has traveled to over 30 countries doing music workshops.
HHSL is now building the momentum for their late August submission to the Grammys 2025 and will be sharing updates from the new album and what Harper has dubbed their “Grammy Run” via their Instagram account (@HipHopSavesLives) and website at HipHopSavesLivesTV.com
Harper has high hopes stating that while only 3 disabled artists have won an Oscar, the Grammys has been much better at inclusion.
Contact Chad Harper at hiphopsaveslives@gmail.com or WhatsApp +1-551-274-9897