'Late at the Library: Felabration!' (SOLD OUT)
This Friday, 16 October 2015, 20:00 - 23:55
at the British Library, London
The Dele Sosimi Afrobeat Orchestra
Tony Allen
2face Idibia
Laura Mvula
Shingai Shoniwa
Afrikan Boy
Terri Walker
The Floacist
Bumi Thomas
Audrey Gbaguidi
Ed Keazor
The Trinity College Afrobeat Ensemble
DJ Kochi Sakai
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Felabration marks the birthday of Fela Anikulapo Kuti (1938-1997), the defining creator of the funk, jazz and rhythmic force that is Afrobeat, which emerged in Nigeria in the 1970s. As well as a composer and multi-instrumentalist genius, Fela was a human rights activist and defiant political and social maverick whose influence continues to reverberate throughout Africa and beyond.
Felabrations take place annually at The New Afrika Shrine in Lagos and in cities all around the world to mark and honour Fela’s birthday. London has its own, this year taking place on Friday, 16 October, in the magnificent atrium of the British Library.
'Late at the Library: Felabration!' is completely sold out with hundreds of people clamouring for tickets. In compensation for this disappointment the British Library and co-producers Knitting Factory Records have got together with the show's sponsors, fela.net and okayafrica.com, to present a live stream of the full show on their websites, commencing at 21:00 GMT. If, for want of a ticket or because of your geographic location you're unable to attend, be sure to buy a heap of snacks and settle in to watch the three-hour spectacular.
The supercharged tribute to the man and his music will be led by Dele Sosimi and his 16-piece Afrobeat Orchestra. Dele Sosimi played keyboards as part of Fela’sEgypt 80 band from 1979 to 1986 and created the Positive Force band with Fela’s son, Femi Kuti, with whom he performed from 1986 to 1994.
Another Fela associate taking part is drummer Tony Allen who was instrumental in the creation of Afrobeat. He was an original member of Fela's Koola Lobitoshighlife-jazz band and later of Fela's Africa 70 band (1968-1979). Brian Eno has described him as "perhaps the greatest drummer who has ever lived.”
During the show a number of exciting guest vocalists will be singing their favourite Fela songs, backed by the Dele Sosimi Afrobeat Orchestra.
Taking part, direct from Lagos, will be 2face Idibia, one the most celebrated African artiste of his generation and the key figure in the rise to global prominence of what has been described as the sound of 21st century Africa. His distinctive blend of reggae, R&B and traditional African musical influences creates a vibe that is contemporary and universal while maintaining a clear African identity. 2face has had numerous hits (including “African Queen”), sold millions of records, toured more than 150 major cities across five continents, and has won countless awards (including MTV, MOBO, BET, KORA).
The line-up will include a host of British-based strong female voices: BRIT Award nominee Laura Mvula; Shingai Shoniwa, vocalist and bassist for the UK indie rock band Noisettes; Terri Walker, one of the UK's premiere Soul singer-songwriters; The Floacist, a founding member of the Grammy nominated, platinum selling, Neo Soul duo Floetry; contemporary Nigerian acoustic jazz-folk singer and songwriter Bumi Thomas; and French born, West African singer Audrey Gbaguidi, currently a member of David Byrne’s Atomic Bomb project which pays tribute to Nigerian musician William Onyeabor.
Also taking part will be Nigerian-born London-based grime MC Afrikan Boy and musician, historian and writer Ed Keazor. Special guests will be the Trinity College Afrobeat Ensemble, all recent graduates from Trinity College in London, which is the college Fela had enrolled in 1958 and, during his four years there had formed his first band, The Koola Lobitos. On the decks will be London-based Japanese-born Afrobeat aficionado DJ Kochi Sakai. A wide selection of great food and drink will be available on the night.
'Late at the Library: Felabration!' is part of the British Library’s ‘West Africa: Word, Symbol, Song’ exhibition which opens on the same day (http://www.bl.uk/events/west-africa-word-symbol-song). The exhibition uses beautiful manuscripts, sound, film and more, tracing the written and oral cultural history of West Africa for the past three centuries. 'Late at the Library: Felabration!' includes free access (until 10pm) to the exhibition.
'Late at the Library: Felabration!'
Friday, 16 October 2015, 20:00 - 23:55, at the British Library (Entrance Hall), 96 Euston Road, London NW1 2DB
Tickets (£25 - SOLD OUT) + info: http://www.bl.uk/events/late-at-the-library-felabration
Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1613604392221958/
As a warm up to Felabration, from 18:45 to 20:00, in the Conference Centre of the British Library, Nigerian artist and graphic designer Lemi Ghariokwu talks about creating the iconic sleeves for most of Fela Kuti’s albums, and their close personal and artistic relationship, which gave him an instinctive, complex and highly creative response to the music and its social and political messages.
Tickets (£5) + info: http://www.bl.uk/events/lemi-ghariokwu-art-and-afrobeat
And for those wanting to dig deeper, check out the screening of Alex Gibney’s 2014 documentary ‘Finding Fela’, followed by live conversations with Fela’s manager Rikki Stein, as well as Dele Sosimi, Lemi Ghariokwu, 2face Idibia, Tony Allen and other special guests, on Saturday, 17 October, 14:00, at the Conference Centre in the British Library.
Tickets (£8) + info: http://www.bl.uk/events/finding-fela-plus-qanda
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DELE SOSIMI
Multiple award-winning Afrobeat maestro and keyboard player Dele Sosimi was a musical director of Fela's Egypt '80 band (1979–1986), and subsequently founding member, musical director and band leader of Femi Kuti's Positive Force (1986 to 1994). The Afrobeat musician, composer, producer and educator, now based in the UK, leads the 16-piece Dele Sosimi Afrobeat Orchestra, featuring a rhythm section of Femi Elias & Suman Joshi (on bass guitars), Kunle Olofinjana (drums), Maurizio Ravalico (percussion), Phil Dawson & Marco Piccioni (guitars), a horn section of Justin Thurgur (trombone), Tom Allan (trumpet), Eric Rohner & Tamar Osborn (on tenor & baritone saxes), Lydie Alberto & Audrey Gbagbuidi (on backing Vocals) and dancers Jazmine Thorpe & Sherinne Anderson.
Dele about Fela: "To celebrate Fela is more than an honour - it's my duty. Fela is the reason Afrobeat music is what it is, and he is the reason Afrobeat music is in my DNA, coursing through the essence of my being and coming out in the various formats in which I perform, to a devout worldwide audience of Afrobeat enthusiasts who will take advantage of every opportunity to savour and appreciate, and gyrate to, this unique genre. The legacy of Fela will live on and pass on from us onto the next generation ad infinitum! Long live Fela! Long live Afrobeat!"
Dele about Fela (video): http://youtu.be/Op0lb12dknk
TONY ALLEN
Lagos-born and currently Paris-based drummer Tony Allen was instrumental in the creation of Afrobeat. He was an original member of Fela's Koola Lobitos highlife-jazz band and later of Fela's Africa 70 band (1968-1979). Brian Eno has described him as "perhaps the greatest drummer who has ever lived” and Fela noted that “without Tony Allen, there would be no Afrobeat."
Tony about Fela: "Fela - The Genius, the Unbeatable!"
2FACE IDIBIA
Easily the most celebrated African artiste of his generation, Innocent Ujah Idibia aka 2face is credited with being the key figure in the rise to global prominence of what has been described as the sound of 21st century Africa. His distinctive blend of reggae, R&B and traditional African musical influences creates a vibe that is contemporary and universal while maintaining a clear African identity. Born in Jos, Plateau state in 1975, 2face has for almost two decades set the standards for creative excellence, commercial success and community service. His accolades include MTV EMA, MOBO, World Music Award, BET, MTV MAMA, KORA, Channel O Music Video Awards, AFRIMA, Headies and many more. 2face has sold millions of records and toured more than 150 major cities across 5 continents.
2face about Fela: "Fela represents a defining moment in our journey as Africans, as Nigerians. His music opens our eyes, awakens our spirit, verbalizes our frustration, articulates our struggle and inspires us to strive for better in all aspects of our existence."
LAURA MVULA
Laura is one of the most exciting new musical talents to come out of the UK. An astonishing two years has seen her nominated for three BRIT Awards (Critic’s Choice, British Female Solo Artist and British Breakthrough Act) and the Album Award at the Ivor Novello Awards, following a nomination for the Mercury Prize.
Classically trained, with a degree in composition from the Birmingham Conservatoire, Laura was catapulted into the limelight in 2013 following the release of her Top Ten debut album Sing to the Moon, which she wrote whilst working as a receptionist at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.
Earlier in the year, Laura opened the BAFTAs with Tinie Tempah and performed at the Commonwealth Day Observance attended by Her Majesty the Queen. Other notable performances have included the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury, Carnegie Hall in a tribute to Miriam Makeba by Angelique Kidjo and the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize Concert in honour of Malala Yousafzai and Kailash Satyarthi.
Laura’s unique sound has enchanted artists, critics and listeners with her music being described as orchestral soul featuring thrilling harmonies - a collision of her Caribbean background, her composition training and her own musical influences which span jazz, soul, pop, gospel and classical.
Laura is currently writing and recording her second album.
SHINGAI SHONIWA
Born to Zimbabwean parents Shingai Shoniwa is the vocalist and bassist of London-based indie rock band Noisettes. A formidable live performer, Shingai represents the spirit of the strong African woman, like Fela's mother and his Queens. And she is no stranger to outrageous costumes. Inspired by her Southern African heritage, this legacy has always been a big part of her musical journey and has seen Shingai through many incarnations of style and poise. Her vast discography, in and outside of the Noisettes, has always been genre-defying while her roots have maintained a strong influence on her stylistic flamboyance. As a recording artist, Shingai is a pioneer and the essence of her distinctive voice is instantly recognisable with every piece of music she lends her soul to.
Shingai about Fela: "I am very proud to be honouring Fela. His classic song “Lady” is an uplifting masterpiece that celebrates the role and impact of women in African society. Throughout the lyrics Fela effortlessly cites what he loves about the attitude and grace of the 'African Woman' with a timeless wordplay, powerful enough to make you laugh until you cry. Fela's poetic observation inspires me to no end as a musician and performer, proudly infusing my African roots throughout my international work. I'll be looking forward to channeling the spirit of our great uncle of Afrobeat on stage. It won't be long until you realise that you haven't danced until you've danced the 'fire dance’."
AFRIKAN BOY
Nigerian-born and London-based grime MC Afrikan Boy has worked with artists such as M.I.A. and The Very Best and has performed globally, including at Damon Albarn's Afrika Express shows. His hit song "Hit 'Em Up" contained a Fela Kuti sample (http://youtu.be/8HtmgrzcP1U). This year sees Afrikan Boy continue to inspire us with more tracks from his debut album ‘The ABCD’, including “Y.A.M” (young ambitious & motivated), the joyous “Sunshine” (feat. Noisettes front woman Shingai Shoniwa) and the soon to come “Border Business”, which touches on the plight of so many a refugee in these trying times.
Afrikan Boy about Fela: "This project is the closest I will get to our late Black President. Fela was and still is a huge fountain of inspiration to my music. In many ways you can say he lives through our music through his music. The new generation is learning and taking his messages to the new world. I represent the image and power of Fela through my own performances to remind people of our roots and culture! I no be gentleman at all o! I be Afrikan Boy Original!"
Afrikan Boy about Fela (video): http://youtu.be/vZdTm6ilO4I
TERRI WALKER
Terri Walker is one of the UK's premiere Soul singer-songwriters. The Mercury and MOBO nominated artist has a career reach that spans 10 years and the globe. Terri has worked with some of the world's best including Duran Duran, Jennifer Hudson, Damon Albarn (Africa Express), Truth & Soul and many more.
Terri about Fela: "Fela Kuti was a pioneer who lived for his people. I am honoured to be asked to celebrate his life once again. Forever hail the King Fela!"
THE FLOACIST
Natalie ‘The Floacist' Stewart is a founding member of the Grammy nominated, platinum selling, Neo Soul duo Floetry which stands for ’Poetic Delivery with Musical Intent'. The Floacist has also released three critically acclaimed solo albums with Shanachie Record, all available on iTunes and Amazon.
The Floacist about Fela: "Fela Kuti has taught so many of us so much about what it is to be descendants of the Orisha, children of Gods, Goddesses, Kings and Queens. To perform in his memory will be an honour beyond measure. For when the world was blurring us out, Fela Kuti was making everything clear."
BUMI THOMAS
Bumi Thomas is a soulful contemporary Nigerian acoustic jazz-folk singer and songwriter whose style is inspired by her multicultural heritage. Bumi’s sound is a synergy of jazz, folklore, high life, Afrobeat rhythms, reggae grooves and tribal nuances. Her organic fusion of ornate rhythms, thought stimulating lyrics, ambient melodies infused with funk and delivered with soul.
Bumi about Fela: “Fela Kuti's creative ideology is one of awakening, liberation and true self expression. His music and legacy continue to inspire a new age of thinkers and creatives. It is truly an honour to be a contributing artist in this historical celebration.”
AUDREY GBAGUIDI
French born, West African singer, Audrey Gbaguidi, known as Maïdji, has been performing with Tony Allen for four years across the globe and is featured on his latest album, ‘Film of Life’ (2014). As well, as being a part of Africa Express, she is also a member of David Byrne’s Atomic Bomb project which pays tribute to Nigerian musician William Onyeabor (with Moneymark, Alexis Taylor, Sinkane, Luke Jenner, Young Fathers as special guest). She was opening the London Olympic Games at the Stratford Theatre with Asa, Tony Allen, Keziah Jonesand Seun Kuti. Earlier in 2012, she performed with Amp Fidler, Ty, Dez Andres in the “Black Series” on a European tour. After such rich influences and collaborations she is now working on her solo carrier.
Audrey about Fela: “Unfortunately I never had the chance too see Fela Kuti perform live - I was too young at the time! But his messages and music are still resonating strongly through generations, worldwide, without any doubt! I’ve learned more about Fela's Afrobeat music through Tony Allen who's my godfather in music and in life. For years, I can't remember one single dinner without mentioning a moment spent with Fela. I'm very honoured to be invited to celebrate this great man, Fela Kuti.”
ED KEAZOR
Ed Keazor is a musician, historian and writer. His musical CV consists of a strong roll of African music heroes, such as the legendary Funkees, Jimi Solanke, The New Rex Lawson Mayors Band, Funsho Ogundipe's Ayetoro, Salvador Sango and of course a proud association with the Dele Sosimi Afrobeat Orchestra.
Ed about Fela: "Some of my earliest and most poignant musical memories, comprised the visceral, explosive genius of Fela's music. His message and music, formed the silent soundtrack to my life's journey. The songs we played when we were happy, the songs we sang, when as university students we protested against Government oppression in the 1980's, the lyrics we listened to, to try and make sense of the woes and tribulations of our nation. The over one million men, women and children on the streets of Lagos, on that August day in 1997 for Fela's funeral showed I wasn't alone - he was the voice and soul of our people."
THE TRINITY COLLEGE AFROBEAT ENSEMBLE
The Trinity College Afrobeat Ensemble are all recent graduates, inspired in the knowledge that a previous and distinguished alumnus of the college was Fela Kuti who had enrolled in 1958 and, during his four years there had formed his first band, The Koola Lobitos. Assisted in their mastery of the intricacies of Afrobeat by Fela's former keyboardist, Dele Sosimi, this group of young musicians have proved their mettle at previous events honouring Fela. The line-up is: Cassie Kinoshi - Alto Sax, Arnaud Guichard - Baritone Sax, Harry Evans - Trumpet, Loretta Tosson - Flute, Nubya Garcia - Tenor Sax, Rosie Turton - Trombone Cassie Kinoshi about Fela: "I am proud and greatly honoured to have been asked by Dele Sosimi to represent the institution where Fela grew, learnt and developed as a musician. I feel that Fela is an extremely important icon in musical history and to be a part of a performance dedicated to and celebrating his legacy is a wonderful feeling. Fela is an incredibly influential figure and without him, many of the musicians we know today would not be who they are!"
DJ KOICHI SAKAI
London-based Japanese-born Afrobeat aficionado Koichi Sakai is a DJ, producer and the founder of legendary Afrobeat Vibration with Dele Sosimi. His passion for Afrobeat made him to produce a cover version of Fela's classic “Eko Ile” featuring Adesose Wallace (available on limited 7" vinyl and digital on iTunes). He also did a remix of Dele Sosimi's “TMI (Too Much Information).”
Koichi about Fela: "When I discovered Fela's music, I was impressed that structure of Afrobeat is just like house music. As I dug more, Fela's colourful life and personality got me into more Afrobeat musically and spiritually. I adore him so much.”
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By popular demand: Fela Kuti on vinyl
Six individual vinyl LPs to be released on 16 October 2015
Fear Not For Man
Beasts Of No Nation
Everything Scatter
Roforofo Fight
Alagbon Close
Na Poi
