News

QUESTION and ANSWER with Dixmille Problemes

1. Why the name 10,000 Problemes?
Without acknowledging our problems, we would not speak of the solutions, and each day that God gives us we must answer our concerns with action.

2. Why did you choose RAP as your mode of self-expression?
Because rap allows me to deliver my message. In order to communicate with young people its necessary choose a music they love.

3. What ideologies drive 10,000 Problemes?
Liberty, solidarity and curing the ills of society.

4. What do you say to young people who risk their lives attempting illegal immigration?
They believe they can not succeed in Africa, but they are making a mistake: One can succeed anywhere, one must only believe. Crossing the ocean to go to Europe shows a lack of respect for their country. Today’s leaders must consider today’s youth because they will manage the Africa of tomorrow. But there are some programs in place like that of the CRREJ (Regional Resource Center for the Employment of Young Adults), which works to fight unemployment among young adults. This organization has supported my work with RAPANDAR and I believe they are doing remarkable work for the young adults of my area.

5. What do you think of Senegalese Rap?
Senegalese rap is a unique artistic wonder, but piracy in our country is an enormous problem. We also lack producers for our music as we must all find ways to produce ourselves.

6. What do you think of child labor?
The exploitation of child labor needs to stop. The freedom of youth is priceless. Some of my best friends are the children in my neighborhood.

7. How do you use your role as an artist to influence youth?
I’m trying to change their mentality and open their minds to good, away from the temptations of society like drugs, and violence.

8. What are your goals for the immediate future?
To do an international tour, and form European and American partnershipa.

9. What do you think about AIDS?
What surprises me the most is that there are still people here who believe it does not exist. And I’ve cried at times over people I’ve seen dying from the disease.

10. What do you think of the African woman?
African women are courageous.

11. What do you see as the future for St. Louis rap?
St. Louis needs institutions to support local rap artists, such as a recording studio. There is not one recording studio for young artists in the city, one must go to Dakar to promote their music.

12. What solutions do you propose to alleviate political corruption?
We must study the root the problem and remove the possibility of personal interest gains. We must learn to respect our established rules.

13. What are your hobbies?
Playing soccer and naturally, listening to music.

14. What is your favorite dish?
Rice and fish – the Senegalese national dish.

15. Who is your favorite artist?
Robert Nesta Marley

16. What is your favorite song?
Black and White is One Family

A final word…I would like to thank and welcome all my sponsors and partners from Europe and America. May our holy Lord help us succeed in this wonderful event.