by JR Valrey
The only music group that has been able to break the English-only music barrier of street popularity in the Bay has been the Spanish speaking rap group Los Rakas. These Black Panamanian Oaklanders are just as comfortable performing at the Fifth Annual Afro Latinx Concert, which is Oct. 3 at the Ruth Williams Bayview Opera House, as they were performing at the Black Cultural Zone’s summer concert series, held in Arroyo Park in Deep East Oakland a few months ago.
The chemistry that the duo, made up of Raka Dun and Raka Rich, has making music with gives them tunes with thunderous Bay Area rap music beds, that they rap over in Spanish with a Bay Area cadence, which is why it sounds familiar to non-Spanish speaking local rap fans. Los Rakas has a near cult following, where at festivals in Northern Cali it is common to see nearly half a dozen people passing by, sporting their logo of the Raka face on t-shirts and hats. During a trip to Medellin, Colombia, that I took in early 2024, I had some non-Black hip hop heads lose their minds when I told them I was from the Bay Area, and they asked if I knew Los Rakas, and I replied “personally.”
The group is an international phenomenon, and with the rise of international Black musics like Amapiano, Afrobeat and Soca – the Bay needs to give this groundbreaking group its flowers at home, or another hood around the world will recognize their musical genius before we do.
I did this Q&A with Raka Dun, exclusively for the SF Bay View newspaper.
JR Valrey: What does Los Rakas mean?
Raka Dun: The name “Raka” originates from the Panamanian slang term “Rakataka,” which is often used derogatorily to describe someone from the ghetto. We chose this name for our group to assert that being from the hood does not define our character or potential. Our goal was to create a movement that reflects pride in our roots, and thankfully, we’ve succeeded.
JR Valrey: What has your experience been like being a Panamanian rap group from Oakland? What does it mean to embody both cultures?
Raka Dun: It’s an honor to represent both Panama and Oakland. Both places have significantly influenced global culture, and being recognized and embraced by these cities carries immense weight. Our backgrounds contribute to our unique sound and resilience, setting us apart in the music industry.
JR Valrey: I went to Colombia and found out that y’all are huge there. Why is it important for you to cater to an international audience?
Raka Dun: Since our teenage years, we have dreamt big and never wanted our music to be confined to just one city or country. We are grateful for the opportunity to travel and share our Bay Area culture globally, connecting with fans everywhere.
JR Valrey: What two countries, other than the U.S., do you enjoy performing in the most?**
Raka Dun: Mexico and Colombia stand out for us; the fans there are incredibly passionate and express their love openly.
JR Valrey: How would you describe your music?
Raka Dun: Our music is simply different.
JR Valrey: What do you have out now?
Raka Dun: We recently released two music videos filmed in Panama: “En la Esquina” and “Deja la envidia Pelao,” featuring a dope upcoming artist Don Pablo Mures. The message is: Say no to hate, focus on your journey, and never envy others. Make sure to check out both videos on our YouTube channel!
JR Valrey: You have a performance coming up at the Opera House on Oct. 3 for the Afro-Latinx show. What can people expect?
Raka Dun: Expect a lively and fun experience! We love to rock for the people, and it’s always a Raka party when we hit the stage. Pull up on us; it’s gonna be a vibe!
JR Valrey: How can people stay in touch with you?
Raka Dun: Visit our website at SoyRaka.com to stay updated and check out our merchandise. As an independent movement, we appreciate all the support from our fans — shout out to all the Rakas out there!
SF Bay View Editor-in-Chief JR Valrey is a veteran journalist. His work can also be heard on www.blockreportradioworld.com. He can be reached at jr@sfbayview.com.
