Articles by: Janine Griffiths

Vision of Young Voices shows urban poets at their best

Vision of Young Voices shows urban poets at their best

When people think of poetry, they often think of the great William Shakespeare, Wordsworth or W.B Yeats or some other famous British poet. The truth is, as talented as these poets are, many of those who are not familiar with the written verse, think of it as a posh pastime for the middle and upper classes. Nothing could be farther[Read More…]

Music Feature: EXCLUSIVE: Akashic Times speaks to esteemed journalist and musician Kris Needs

Music Feature: EXCLUSIVE: Akashic Times speaks to esteemed journalist and musician Kris Needs

He’s probably one of the most famous journalists in the rock and punk movement, and has knocked heads with the likes of Bob Marley and Keith Richards and in this exclusive, Kris Needs talks about his upcoming projects in the UK and his perceptions about the changing face of music. He is better known for his book ‘Before They Make[Read More…]

Middle-Eastern dance show combats stereotypes in Leeds

A Middle-Eastern dance show aimed at combating stereotypes about Arabic art proved popular among Leeds residents last week. The show Funoon, attracted around 100 dance fans who bore witness to a fusion of different dance styles from across Africa and the Arabic world. The show was the brainchild of acclaimed dancer, Nawarra who formed a collaboration with top performers across[Read More…]

Hip-hop pioneer inspires youngsters in Leeds

Hip-hop pioneer inspires youngsters in Leeds

Youngsters in Leeds were treated to a series of urban music workshops over the last six weeks thanks to a special visit by Dyna Max, a US hip-hop artist and ambassador of Afrika Bambaataa’s Zulu Nation. He is also a member of Kool Herc’s hip-hop family the ‘Herculords’ and pioneer to the hip-hop culture in France. He has worked across[Read More…]

Smash-hit documentary shines spotlight on young Leeds writers

Smash-hit documentary shines spotlight on young Leeds writers

The premier of ‘We Are Poets’ in Leeds was truly a night to remember. Held at Leeds Town Hall in celebration of the talents and skills of a group of young writers in the city, the film was hosted by internationally recognised poet Benjamin Zephaniah and featured commentary from Saul Williams – another world-famous poet. We Are Poets is a[Read More…]