Fair play live @ 9:30 celebrates global music connections, social justice and fighting corruption - all in one epic live ep

Back in December 2022, the 9:30 Club in Washington, DC became the epicenter of the anti-corruption music revolution as Fair Play ambassadors from four different countries came together for the performance of a lifetime. Over the past two years, these Fair Playas have worked to recapture the energy and passion from that unforgettable night, rerecording the compositions and arrangements born from their time in DC. The result is Fair Play Live @ 9:30–four unique tracks that showcase the talents of Faith Mussa (Malawi), Shanti Powa (Italy), Alesh (DR Congo), and Rain in Sahara (India).

“Being around such talented artists also using art for change, meeting hugely passionate people in the anti-corruption sector, and the overall experience has completely rekindled my passion and fire to tackle the challenges we collectively face.”

Lain Heringman, Rain in Sahara

Fair Play Live @ 9:30 is more than just a musical album, it’s a bold statement of unity in diversity. Featuring a dynamic mix of Afro-soul, reggae, hip-hop, and classical influences, the album is a tribute to the Fair Play ambassadors’ commitment to advocating for justice, equality, and human rights. Each artist brings their own style, shaped by their cultural experiences, to inspire positive change through the power of music. 

Meet the Fair Playas

The album is a result of the collaboration between four renowned artists/bands:

• Faith Mussa – Malawi’s first “electronic one–man band”, blending traditional African rhythms with modern sounds and heartfelt lyrics.

• Shanti Powa – A 10-peace powerhouse known for its high-energy fusion of reggae, hip-hop, and ska, delivering socially conscious messages. 

• Alesh – A rapper and producer whose hard-hitting lyrics tackle issues of justice, corruption, and resilience in the face of oppression. 

• Rain in Sahara – A genre-defying group merging hip-hop, electronica, Latin and classical influences, using music as a platform for human rights. 

Beyond the music: A Movement for Justice

As the world continues to battle inequality, corruption, and human rights violations, Fair Play Live @ 9:30 serves as both a reminder and a call to action–a testament to the power of music to unite, heal and ignite change. 

Fair Play, which the EP is a product of, is a global movement that harnesses the power of music as a force for activism, empowering young artists to take a stand against corruption. Through its international music competition, Fair Play provides a platform for socially conscious musicians under 35 to raise their voices on issues of anti-corruption and good governance. Founded by the Global Anti-Corruption Youth Network in collaboration with the JMI Foundation and the World Bank Institute, the initiative connects artists with activists, amplifying their messages and fostering a worldwide community of change-makers. By turning lives experiences into a collective call for transparency, justice and accountability on a global scale.

FOUR tracks – FOUR artists – ONE EPIC COLLAB

Originally set to perform separately, Shanti Powa, Rain in Sahara, Faith Mussa and Alesh came together in a small studio in Washington, D.C., ahead of their show with Blitz the Ambassador and Rakim. A spontaneous studio session turned into something bigger–an exchange of rhythms, melodies, and stories that blurred boundaries and fused cultures. In just a few hours, a new sound took shape, proving that music thieves on connection, not borders. Each track on Fair Play Live @ 9:30 carries a strong statement. Bringing together distinct musical styles and personal stories, these four tracks highlight urgent social justice themes, from corruption and inequality to resilience and hope. 

The EP kicks off with “Biloko Ya Boye”, a sharp call to action urging both leaders and citizens to take responsibility for their society. The track challenges inaction and complacency, reminding people that change starts with them. With a driving beat and an urgent message, “Biloko Ya Boye” blends protest with rhythm, making this song both a wake-up call and a movement. 

“Gangsta Bankers” follows and tells the story of a clash between a business tycoon and an anti-corruption crusader–but there’s no fairy-tale ending. Instead the song highlights just how deeply entrenched corruption has become in some parts of the world. With corruption at the root of many of today’s greatest global challenges, the song serves as a call to action: to speak up, get engaged, and fight back. 

Following the hard-hitting social commentary of “Gangsta Bankers”, “Music Is Our Weapon” shifts the tone to one of empowerment and resilience. This track celebrates music as a tool for self-expression, unity, and change. The lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their passions, push boundaries, and find their place in the world. With its uplifting message, the track highlights the power of music to inspire action and bring people together in the fight for a better future.

The EP closes on a hopeful note with the track “Waiting”. Faith Mussa, the original composer, describes it as: “[...] a song of hope and talks about a corrupt-free society and a beautiful future. At least that’s what I’m waiting for as a fighter of corruption.”

Together, these four tracks form a powerful message–one that transcends borders, speaks truth to power, and invites listeners to join the fight for justice.

Now available on all major streaming platforms, the album invites listeners to join the Fair Play movement and be part of a global fight for justice. 

Don't miss out–listen NOW!