Hip-hop artists team up with composers in LA

Composers who have influenced hip-hop artists including Dr. Dre and Lil Wayne are set to perform at a Los Angeles concert series that pairs them with contemporary DJs and rappers.

Each 'Timeless' concert will feature arranger/composers who have influenced hip-hop since the 1970s accompanied by turntablists from around the globe.

The first concert is set to take place February 1 at the Cal State LA Luckman Fine Arts Complex with a performance by Mulatu Astatke, considered the “father of Ethio-jazz.” Astatke will be backed by a 15-piece orchestra and joined by opening DJs Cut Chemist, Quantic and Egon.

is set to perform on March 15 before Arthur Verocai and a 30-piece orchestra. The series concludes on April 5 with a performance by composer David Axelrod, whose music has been sampled by the likes of Lil Wayne and Dr. Dre.

The performance dates at Cal State LA Luckman Fine Arts Complex are:

Mulatu Astatke with a 15-piece orchestra. Opening DJ sets by Cut Chemist, Quantic and Egon (February 1)
Miguel Atwood-Ferguson with a 39-piece orchestra and special guests. Opening DJ sets by House Shoes (22)
Arthur Verocai with a 30-piece orchestra. Opening DJ sets by MADLIB and DJ Nuts (March 15)
David Axelrod with a 26-piece orchestra. DJ set by J.Rocc and special guests (April 5)

--By our Los Angeles staff.
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