East African hip-hop takes center stage at the 2024 Minnesota State Fair

The sound of summer meets the spirit of Sahan this Friday at the Minnesota State Fair. Sahan Journal will host a Sahan Community Live event at the Minnesota Public Radio Stage, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. You’ll find us at the corner of Judson and Nelson.

Sahan will host rap artist Fanaka Nation and his band this Friday. Elk River native Fanaka Ndege, who goes by the stage name Fanaka Nation, comes from a pioneering Kenyan music family in Minnesota. That is to say, he’s not your typical hip-hop artist ,

Writing for Sahan Journal in April, Myah Goff said, “Fanaka infuses the genre with East African influences, characterized by the delicate plinks of the mbira, the primal pulse of drums, Swahili lyrics, and the sampling of East African classics. It’s a sound and look that’s part homage, part innovation — a tribute to Minneapolis’ musical roots.”

Fanaka sees his music as a vehicle for liberation. “I hope people feel happy, because I feel happy when I perform,” he says.

Friday’s stage show will also give fairgoers an opportunity to meet the spirit of Sahan: our staff. Sahan reporters will chat about their work and why it matters, while sharing some of their favorite memories. You’ll get a peek of what it’s like to work in Sahan’s newsroom.

Plus, we’ll have Minnesota trivia, prizes, and giveaways. Free Sahan swag for everyone!

You won’t want to miss it. We hope to see you there.

Stay tuned! We’ll be on MPR’s Stage again next Thursday, August 29, 3:30-4:30 p.m. More information is coming soon.

When: Friday, August 23, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Where: MPR’s Stage at the corner of Judson and Nelson.

Cost: The show is free. You must pay for general admission to the fair.

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