Ideas worth spreading

The music of a war child

1,032,436 views | Emmanuel Jal • TEDGlobal 2009

For five years, young Emmanuel Jal fought as a child soldier in the Sudan. Rescued by an aid worker, he's become an international hip-hop star and an activist for kids in war zones. In words and lyrics, he tells the story of his amazing life.

For five years, young Emmanuel Jal fought as a child soldier in the Sudan. Rescued by an aid worker, he's become an international hip-hop star and an activist for kids in war zones. In words and lyrics, he tells the story of his amazing life.

This talk was presented at an official TED conference. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

About the speaker

Emmanuel Jal

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Emmanuel Jal's hypnotic voice rises from hellish origins as a beacon of hope for those caught in seemingly endless cycles of war and despair.

This talk was presented at an official TED conference. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.