Intelligence Squared George the Poet on Music, Memory, and the War on Blackness Art & Culture (Part Two)
Mar 12, 2025
George Mpanga, known as George the Poet, is a powerful voice in poetry and social commentary, acclaimed for his exploration of race and inequality in the UK. In this engaging discussion, he reflects on the impact of cultural environments on identity, sharing his journey from Uganda to Cambridge. He candidly addresses the challenges of artistic expression in a commercialized music industry, the legacy of Tupac, and the implications of neoliberalism on creativity. George also dives into the intricacies of balancing activism with commercial success in the arts.
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Cambridge Experience
- George the Poet discusses his experience of going to Cambridge University after growing up in a predominantly Black community.
- He felt like a fish out of water due to the lack of cultural common ground, leading him to become a recluse and focus on writing poetry.
Staying Connected to Roots
- George the Poet emphasizes the importance of staying connected to one's roots.
- He observes that career progression can lead to a drift away from the Black working class unless a conscious effort is made.
Non-Gangster Rap Theory
- George the Poet discusses his theory about the viability of non-gangster rap.
- He uses reggae and funky house as examples of commercially successful, non-gangster genres.
