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Edmonton DJ Rohan Mani and his partner Tim Baig are bridging racial and generational gaps in the city by hosting the popular event, Hip-Hop Karaoke.

The event was inspired after the owner of the Common and 9910, Justin Der returned from a trip to Vancouver. Der had witnessed a similar event and reached out to Mani and Baig about potentially bringing Hip-Hop Karaoke to Edmonton.

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That was about five years ago. Now, the event is held three to five times a year at 9910, and draws diverse crowds.

“It has become an event to go to because it helps bring people together,” said Mani. “We cultivate a culture that appeals to everyone; black, white, old and young.”

People can sign up to perform a hip-hop track of their choice. Mani and his team find the instrumental version and performers sing or rap in front of a crowd.

The only catch is that there are no monitors; performers have to memorize the lyrics to their songs in advance.