What is the Culture Shock Tour?
The Culture Shock School Tour, created by Houston Alexander in 2003, is an educational project that visits K-12 schools and colleges in and around Omaha, teaching students the history of hip-hop through music, dance, and art. Under the leadership of Alexander and with the help of local teachers, parents, and administrators, the Culture Shock Tour has hosted approximately 450 tours over the past fifteen years, and the program continues strong, averaging between 20-40 school tours each year. It has reached over 5,000 youths in and around Omaha, and continues to positively impact communities by sharing hip-hop’s historical and cultural significance. The tour plans to expand throughout Nebraska and nationwide.
Who is Houston Alexander?
Board Chair & President
Houston Alexander is a celebrated Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) competitor based in Omaha, Nebraska. With a professional career starting in 2001, he has fought in numerous championships such as UFC, Primus Fighting Championship, Bellator’s Light Heavyweight division, and more. He began his career with a remarkable 6-1-0-1 record, including five finishes due to strikes. His iconic debut in the UFC® was marked by a swift defeat of top light heavyweight contender, Keith Jardine, in just 48 seconds, followed by another impressive first-round TKO victory over Alessio Sakara.
Outside the MMA cage, Houston is deeply immersed in hip-hop culture. A b-boy, street artist, and music enthusiast, he led various hip-hop groups in the ’80s and ’90s and even created community graffiti murals in North Omaha. He hosted a weekly rap battle, “Tuesday Night Titans,” which inspired him to create his own record label, Hustle Music. Houston remains involved in Omaha’s underground hip-hop scene, working as a local DJ and on-air talent at Power 106.9 FM. Additionally, he stars in the comedy television show Omaha Live and has been featured in movies, TV shows, radio, and magazines.
As a community leader, Houston is devoted to giving back. He serves as Board Chair & President of the Houston Alexander Foundation, providing educational programs to youth. He has collaborated with various organizations to inspire young people about leadership. Passionate about fitness and wellness, he offers free personal training and self-defense classes to his community. Despite his busy career, Houston always prioritizes his family, as shown when he donated one of his kidneys to his oldest daughter in 2001.
