Orishas

A pioneering Cuban hip hop group brings its genre-blending sound to the James L. Knight Center for a live concert rooted in rhythm, lyricism and cultural identity.

Orishas perform on Saturday, May 9. Founded in Havana in 1999, the group is widely recognized for fusing hip hop with traditional Cuban and Afro-Caribbean rhythms, creating a sound that connects contemporary urban music with deep cultural references.

Now based in Europe, Orishas have played a central role in bringing Cuban hip hop to international audiences, with performances and tours across Europe, Latin America and the United States. Their work often draws on themes of heritage, migration and social identity, reflected both in their lyrics and in the group’s name, which references deities from African-derived religions in the Americas. The concert offers an opportunity to experience one of Cuba’s most influential rap groups in a live setting.