August 19, 2016
Illa State Ltd
To celebrate 10 years since the release of Akala's critically acclaimed debut album It's Not A Rumour, Illa State Records, Akala's very own independent home record label, are proud to announce they will be releasing a triple vinyl of selected tracks from each of his six albums chosen especially by his supporters. This special edition album will be also available for download in digital format. Ten Years of Akala gives one pause for thought - here is an artist that had it in him to keep his fierce independence when it was not fashionable, has performed in over 30 countries, released 6 albums, two books, presented the seminal Life of Rhyme for Channel 4, founded The Hip-Hop Shakespeare Company and has been a tireless voice for education and social justice in the UK and all over the world. Akala does so much it can be easy to forget that first and foremost he is an amazing musician. This anniversary release reminds us of that and the growth of a talent that has toured the UK and globally, all whilst being largely ignored by mainstream radio for the past decade. Last year alone, Akala headlined four sold out shows in London (two at the Jazz Cafe, Rich Mix and Village Underground) addressed the Oxford Union and released part 2 of Knowledge is Power. His live show is 90 minutes of relentless tracks, backed by intense and stunning visuals, live drums, a DJ and with no need for a 'hype man'. 2016's upcoming tour in October promises to be his biggest yet, with a London show at Koko, UK, US, European and Australian dates also to be announced. Fresh from an East Africa mini tour (Addis, Khartoum & Juba) Akala is ready to take on the world again in 2016. With part 4 of his legendary 'Fire In The Booth' eagerly anticipated for later this year, an appearance on BBC2 & the RSC's Shakespeare 400th birthday celebrations collaborating with Nitin Sawney and a reggae documentary on BBC4 to be broadcast in October, 2016 will continue to be a year of solid progress and groundbreaking, pathmaking vision from this artistic polymath.