Fela Project – Afrobeat Night @ Cult Feb. 22
Fela Kuti was famous around the time I was born, 1971. Ha was then forgotten and died in 1997. Only after his death, DJs in London and Paris re-discovered his music and produced new house tracks with afrobeat elements. Yes, they even made a Broadway musical about Fela Kuti now.
He is still a hero for many Africans, especially the Nigerians. That’s where he came from. Lagos, was his home and they still have his Shrine, his club and legacy there. He was not only a musican, but also a highly political person.
You may have not heard of Fela and his Afrobeat music, but it influenced a lot of music you are listening today, may it be hip hop or house. Famous rappers like Common, Talib Kweli or Mos-Def have just talked about Felas influence on them and their music in the Fela Project Book (www.fela-project.net)
Fela was and is a controversial figure. For some he is a hero, others hate his personality and heritage. No matter what, one must respect Fela’s musical heritage. Its a unique blend of African rhythms and new Jazz, reaching out to Hip Hop and House music. There were many artists to follow his lead and even today we have famous Afrobeat bands, like New Yorks Antibalas or his son Femi Kuti. I used to frequently go to my friends Afrobeat party in New York, the Fela Project. When people asked me about it, I always said the same: If you are not moved by this music, if you don’t dance after a while, you are probably dead.
Therefore we are starting our own Fela Project here in Moscow. It has been my dream, ever since I arrived in Moscow. Felas music was always with me and with the Epik Sound guys, I found some brothers in arms. This Monday night, we’ll bring you our favorite Afrobeat tunes. Originals from Fela and other musicians, but also Hip Hop and House tunes, which were highly influenced by Felas Afrobeat. Yes Baby! Its Felas music. Its Afrobeat and if you don’t move, you re probably dead.
Fela Project
Mon Feb 22 – 11 PM
@ Cult
Ul. Yauzkaya 5/1
Metro: Kitai Gorod / Taganka
Password: Fela Kuti
DJs
Two-Zero
Gatek
Old Dog
Komotsky
Gun
Come show us that you’re alive. See you at Cult. Bring your friends. Be open minded for something new. I promise you’ll dance all night long. SHARE this with your friends.
(full details & RSVP @ Facebook Event Page)
