Entertainment
Rocky Dawuni, Buyepongo, Jeremy Sole, Glenn Red, Kahlil Cummings, More For Afro Funke’s 20th Anniversary
KCRW & the iconic Grand Performances are teaming up for an extraordinary night in honor of the 20th Anniversary of Afro Funke’ on Saturday, July 22, 2023 from 6 to 10pm at Grand Performances in downtown Los Angeles! The event is free, all ages and picnics are welcomed.
Please come out and celebrate the legacy of the once weekly party night that turned global, with live performances from Rocky Dawuni and Buyepongo, plus DJ sets from Afro Funke’ resident DJs Glenn Red, and Jeremy Sole (resident KCRW DJ too!) and live drumming and dancing by the amazing Kahlil Cummings & friends! Join us for Afrobeat, Latin, Brazilian, Indian, Jamaican and other traditional and remixed world rhythms, plus African drumming and dancing, DJ Culture, arts & crafts, merch and much more!
About Afro Funke’
Afro Funke’ which is celebrating its 20th Anniversary in 2023, was the brainchild of 3x GRAMMY nominated Afro Roots musician and activist, Rocky Dawuni, who realized LA’s need for a night dedicated to African music, culture and art and it’s far reaching legacy around the world. Afro Funke’ was a super successful weekly event every Thursday night at Zanzibar in Santa Monica for over 10 years with the generous support of owners Louie & Netty Ryan and then moved on to be periodic event throughout Los Angeles at various larger and smaller scale venues including Levitt Pavilion, Grand Park, Hammer Museum, Fowler Museum, Townhouse in Venice as well as international events.
Dawuni (who is now based back in his native Ghana,) together with producer, talent curator and photographer Cary Sullivan created Afro Funke’, bringing on board resident DJ and co-founder DJ Jeremy Sole (KCRW, Le Frique Sonique) Afro Funke’ has presented international guest DJs, live band performances, guest musicians, dancers, cutting edge films, record release parties, fundraisers, fashion shows, art and photography installations, crafts and more. Sole spins his unique “Musaics,” or sound collage-blends of hip hop, jazz/funk, dub reggae, afro beat, and remixed world beats; pieced together with tribal breaks, and uplifted by dubbed-out turntable manipulation and live instrumentation. DJ Glenn Red (La Junta) is our second resident DJ and is an integral part of the Afro Funke’ Sound System. Afro Funke’s profile has been greatly enhanced by its unique photo-based flyers which feature Cary Sullivan’s cutting-edge photographs of West African life.
About Rocky Dawuni
Afro Funke’ founder, Rocky Dawuni with his full 12 piece “Afro Roots Band” will headline the night. The three-time GRAMMY nominated musician and activist, straddles the boundaries between Africa, the Caribbean and the US that unites generations and cultures. A galvanizing performer, Dawuni has shared the stage with luminaries including Stevie Wonder, Ozomatli, Sauti Sol, Peter Gabriel and John Legend. Named one of Africa’s Top 10 global stars by CNN, he has showcased his talent at prestigious venues such as The Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center and The Hollywood Bowl. Rocky is a UN Goodwill Ambassador for the Environment for Africa. Through these and other designations he uses his music to shine a light on crucial issues facing humanity cross the globe through live concerts, speaking roles, panels, youth empowerment and much more!
http://www.rockydawuni.com
https://www.instagram.com/
About Buyepongo
Hometown favorites, Buyepongo make contemporary pan-Latin music in the style they intriguingly call “buyangú” — an eclectic but cohesive mezcla of global beats and spicy flavors influenced by their California home base as well as the band members’ travels to Central and South America. https://www.
https://buyepongo.bandcamp.
About Jeremy Sole
Jeremy Sole’s upbringing was seeped in the rich Chicago history of Blues, Jazz, Disco, Salsa and Soul – and he reveled in that space where they all blend together. As a teenager, Sole threw loft parties that were a culture clash during the birth of Hip Hop and House music. His obsession grew to include music from every corner of the world and, in 2001, Sole moved to LA. With a broad musical palette, he felt right at home in the spiciest melting pot in the country. In April 2006, Sole was in the studio working with Ms. Lauryn Hill. After hearing him mix, she asked if he had ever considered getting into radio, “…because this is the music the people need to hear”. Months later, KCRW called to ask him that same question, and since then you can hear him Wednesdays from 12-3am on 89.9FM and KCRW.com. https://www.instagram.com/
https://www.kcrw.com/music/
About Glenn Red
Known primarily for his work as half of Santa Monica’s legendary Afro Funké Sound System and one-third of beloved Afro-Latin deejay/producer collective, La Junta, GLENN RED quietly continues to forge a loyal following among fans of eclectic music, steadily rocking crowds in the city’s most respected venues alongside the finest selectors and musicians from around the world. With the honest music of passionate artists as a common thread, his deejay sets weave fluidly through time and across genres, connecting the traditional sounds of Africa and the Americas with their modern expressions around the globe. Afrobeat, Cumbia, Rumba, and Samba rhythms embrace Funk, Soul, Hip-Hop, and Reggae, as Glenn’s rhythmic and multifaceted sound echoes the deep, colorful, and spirited energy of LA and its soulful people. https://glennred.com
http://www.instagram.com/
About Kahlil Cummings
Kahlil Cummings, a Los Angeles native, is an acclaimed drummer, exceptional performer, composer, and educator. Kahlil was recognized as a child prodigy very early. He has played with numerous reputable groups including Ballet Folclórico Do Brasil, Sona Sané, Abalayé, Mila Samba School, Inu Olorun, Debbie Allen Dance Company, Les Amazones, and Viver Brasil. Kahlil honed his rhythmic gifts with noted teachers including Mestre Amen Santo, Jose Ricardo Sousa, Kobla Ladzekpo, Esteban “Cha Cha” Bacallao (Ibae), and Sandy Perez. His studies in Guinea, Brazil and Cuba have helped to widely broaden his knowledge and musical strength. However, he is most profoundly influenced by West African master drummer Mamady Keita, with whom he has studied since the age of 13. Kahlil is the founder of Extra Ancestral which began in 2017 as an ensemble that aims to educate audiences through the fusions of hypnotic Afrobeat, Reggae, Jazz, Afro-Latin, and traditional African diasporic rhythms, narrated by powerful ancestral dancing. Kahlil also plays and tours with international recording artists Rocky Dawuni, Kamasi Washington & many more. http://www.
About Cary Sullivan
Cary Sullivan is the co-founder and producer of Afro Funke’. She is a multi-talented photographer, artist manager, event producer, talent curator, promoter, activist and mother who has run the gamut of the culture, music & art landscape from coordinating festivals in Africa to producing progressive radio in Los Angeles. Cary co-owns and operates AQUARIAN Records, which is a record label and production company dedicated to bringing the eclectic culture of Ghana to the world through music, live concerts, photography, philanthropy and wellness; working primarily with GRAMMY Nominated musician and creative activist, Rocky Dawuni as well as a group of amazing up & coming artists. http://www.instagram.com/
About KCRW Summer Nights
KCRW Summer Nights is BACK! We’ve teamed up with some of the best cultural hotspots around Southern California to throw the perfect summertime parties. These nights are FREE, all-ages, outdoors, and will feature your favorite KCRW DJs, bands, exhibits and more. So mark your calendar, dust off your dancing shoes, and spend the season with us! https://www.kcrw.com/
About Grand Performances
Grand Performances, the longest running presenter of free outdoor concerts in Los Angeles, is returning this year to the newly renovated California Plaza in DTLA for its 37th season! Grand Performances mission is to inspire community, celebrate diversity, and unite Los Angeles through free access to global performing arts.
Please JOIN US on Saturday, July 22, 2023
6 to 10pm / FREE / ALL Ages
Parking available on site for a fee
Picnics and families welcome
**Special thanks to Fusicology for all of their support!
Grand Performances
350 South Grand Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90071
213-687-2190
http://www.grandperformances.
PLUS we are doing a very special After Party from 10pm to 2am at
The Moroccan Lounge right after the Grand Performances event which is just a few minutes away!! Please come through and let’s continue the Afro Funke’ 20th Anniversary Celebration!!
The Moroccan Lounge
901 E. 1st Street
Los Angeles, CA
213.295.0610
$10 presale and $15 at door
Entertainment
DJ Lord OTB To Feature In Transit Live’s House Music Experience At Sandbox Beach Club
Award-winning Ghanaian DJ, DJ Lord OTB, is set to make his debut headline at a house music event dubbed ‘Transit Live’ on February 1st, 2025. The highly anticipated event will take place at the scenic Sandbox Beach Club, where DJ Lord OTB will join an elite lineup of international DJs for the second edition of Transit Live.
An amazing set with a strict house music feel is guaranteed by DJ Lord OTB, who is renowned for his impeccable mixes and ability to cut across genres. With a sunset-to-sunrise journey of music, wellness, and community, this edition of Transit Live promises to further enhance the experience following the inaugural event’s overwhelming success.
Insert embed link here: : https://www.instagram.com/p/
What’s in Store at Transit Live:
- Yoga, Fitness & Wellness Activities: Start the night with calming and energizing sessions.
- Rejuvenating Massages: Stay refreshed throughout the event with all-night massage services.
- Live Percussion: Enjoy a cultural touch with performances from the traditional band, The Local Dimension.
- Curated DJ Sets: International and local DJs spinning the best in house music.
- Face & Body Art: Get creative and complete your festival look.
- Bonfire on the Beach: Gather around for warmth, vibes, and connection.
- A Welcoming Environment: A safe space for all to enjoy the ancestral healing power of music and dance.
- Special Surprises: Expect the unexpected as Transit Live delivers unique moments.
Whether you’re a lover of house music, a wellness enthusiast, or someone looking for a transformative experience, Transit Live is the place to be.
Date: February 1st, 2025
Venue: Sandbox Beach Club, Accra
Secure your tickets and come ready to find your flow at this one-of-a-kind event: https://tix.africa/
Entertainment
I’m Fully Focused On My Music This Year” – Empress Ghadafi
Entertainment
Mary Owusu Releases New Song Dubbed “Divine Selection”
Gospel sensation Mary Owusu makes a triumphant return to the music scene with her latest single, “Divine Selection”.
After a brief hiatus, during which she received a prestigious VGMA 2016 nomination for Best Gospel Song, Mary Owusu is back with a spirit-filled masterpiece that’s generating buzz among music lovers.
Produced by the talented Shar, “Divine Selection” is a must-listen.
Check it out below
Entertainment
Inpha Reblitive Joins Reggae Legends At 2024 Reggae Sting Concert
Rising Jamaican artist Inpha Reblitive is set to perform at the prestigious 2024 Reggae Sting Concert, sharing the stage with some of the biggest names in Reggae and Dancehall, including Tommy Lee, Jamal, Jamiel, Yaksta, Turbulance, and more. This marks a significant milestone in Inpha’s career, as he takes the stage at one of the most iconic events in Jamaican music history.
Reggae Sting, often referred to as “the greatest one-night Reggae and Dancehall show on earth,” has been a cultural cornerstone since its founding in 1984 by Isaiah Laing under Supreme Promotions. Established during a time when Dancehall lacked a major stage in Jamaica, Laing’s vision was to create an event that could unite communities and showcase the heartbeat of Jamaica’s cultural identity through music. Over the years, the event has launched the careers of countless superstars, including Shabba Ranks, Buju Banton, Vybz Kartel, Bounty Killer, and Sizzla, while also hosting international icons such as Busta Rhymes and Maxi Priest.
For Inpha Reblitive, the opportunity to perform on the Sting stage alongside a lineup of Reggae legends is a testament to his rising status in the industry. Known for his innovative fusion of Dancehall and modern influences, Inpha is rapidly becoming a voice for a new generation of Jamaican artists. Fans attending Reggae Sting 2024 can expect a performance that highlights his creativity, passion, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of the genre.
This year’s event marks a return to its legendary home at Jamworld in Portmore, a venue synonymous with the golden moments of Reggae Sting’s storied history. After undergoing renovations, Jamworld is once again ready to welcome thousands of music fans to experience the unmatched energy and cultural vibrancy of Sting.
As Reggae Sting prepares for the future, the event is undergoing an exciting transformation. The Sting team has also embraced technology, introducing a revamped ticketing platform, a new online music distribution division, and a dedicated streaming network to enhance the experience for fans around the world.
Inpha Reblitive’s performance at Reggae Sting 2024 is set to be a highlight of the event, further cementing the show’s reputation as a launchpad for rising stars and a celebration of Jamaica’s unparalleled musical heritage.
Entertainment
Rising Star Kaset Takes Dancehall By Storm
In the vibrant world of dancehall music, a new star is shining bright. Meet Kaset,Ghanaian sensation who’s taking the industry by storm with her unique sound and captivating stage presence.
Born and raised in Ghana, Kaset grew up surrounded by the rhythms and beats of dancehall. She began writing her own lyrics and experimenting with music production in Ghana. After honing her craft and performing at local shows, Kaset released her debut single “Chosen One” in 2023, which quickly gained traction on social media and music streaming platforms.
Kaset’s music is a fusion of traditional dancehall with modern electronic and hip-hop elements. Her lyrics often focus on themes of empowerment, self-love, and social justice. With her powerful vocals and energetic live performances, Kaset is quickly becoming a fan favorite among dancehall enthusiasts.
In addition to her music, Kaset is also making waves with her striking visuals and bold fashion sense. Her music videos and social media posts often feature vibrant colors, eclectic styles, and a blend of Jamaican and African cultural influences.
Kaset is poised to take the dancehall world by storm. Keep an eye out for this rising star, as she’s sure to ignite the music scene with her unique talent and infectious energy.
Stream Kaset songs here:
https://www.boomplay.com/share/music/130933727?srModel=COPYLINK&srList=IOS
Entertainment
Amos K Returns With The 2nd Chapter of His Groundbreaking EP Series
That’s the mantra versatile Ghanaian Rapper and Producer, Amos K is standing on as he officially releases the second instalment of his successful extended play (EP), “Tell Them, We Are Coming.”
“Tell Them, We Are Coming 2” just like the first one is a five-song project that highlights grim persistence, rebellion against tradition, and breaking of convention, a recurring theme in Amos K’s projects. On the opening track, the skilled rapper returns from the underworld as a “Zombie” – a song where he talks about putting in the work and letting rationality prevail over emotions. There’s no fear in his voice, he raps boldly in two verses disbanded by a melodious hook.
Any rapper eyeing the Best Rap Song of the Year award must buckle up because they have nothing on track two of the project. Crafty word smith Nii Black joins Amos K on “Nothing On Me” as they deliver the best rap song of the year.
The rappity-rap record produced by Kel Beats and 85 Savage is pure flames and hardcore rap for over three minutes. Legend has it that the “booth turned into a furnace” during the recording session. Ride on into the middle track as “Stallion” featuring S.I.N District duo Boi Mack and Spoonz follows. The Hip-Hop track, produced by Bxndit, is a three-verse open mic session where all three artistes take turns to spaz and tell personal stories of pain, struggles, and eventual triumphs.
On “Tell Them, We Are Coming 2” there is “Bad Boy 2.” The themes of rebellion, unconventional, and preaching against conformist behaviors heighten in the second edition of the self-produced record. Amos K taps Yung Demi, Nana OT, and Dess, who all bring different perspectives of being a “Bad Boy.” That hook could not be changed.
But does the rapper regret being a “Bad Boy,” find out on the final track as he sends a reflective letter to his younger self on “13-Year-Old-Me.” The song was produced by the rapper and Kel Beats. Amos K has refined his craft over the years, and “Tell Them, We Are Coming 2” presents a more mature Amos K with a better perspective and sound.
All the songs were mastered by Emunah except track 3, which was mastered by Dab Beatz.
The versatile Amos K mixed every song on the EP. listen here
Entertainment
Rison Jeneral And Strongman Bring The Heat On Christmas Banger “Chilling Sorr”
Ghanaian Afrobeat sensation Rison Jeneral has teamed up with rapper Strongman on a sizzling hot Christmas banger titled ‘Chilling Sorr’.
The highly anticipated collaboration is set to take the music scene by storm, and it’s already generating a lot of buzz.
The song, which masterfully blends the energetic vibes of Afrobeat with the infectious rhythms of Amapiano, is a game-changer.
Rison Jeneral’s smooth vocals and Strongman’s rap lyrics come together in perfect harmony, creating a truly unforgettable listening experience.
Rison Jeneral, who has been making waves in the music industry, has already racked up an impressive list of accolades. In 2022, he took home three prestigious awards at the Wassaman Entertainment and Business Awards, including:
Best Collaboration of the Year
Best Music Video of the Year
Best Afropop Song of the Year
Strongman, on the other hand, is currently riding high on the success of his recent wins at the TGMA 2024, where he was crowned the Best Rapper of the Year. This latest collaboration with Rision Jeneral is sure to take over the industry as the number one song.
With ‘Chilling Sorr’, Rison Jeneral and Strongman are set to bring the heat this Christmas season. Mark your calendars, as the song is set to be officially released on December 13th.
Entertainment
SM Militant (Natty Lee & Joint 77) Fire Shots At Shatta Wale On Bra Desmond’s New Track
The Ghanaian music scene is abuzz with the latest release from Bra Desmond, featuring SM Militants, Natty Lee and Joint 77. The song, which has been making waves online, has sparked controversy due to some perceived jabs thrown at dancehall king, Shatta Wale.
In the song, Natty Lee and Joint 77, formerly members of Shatta Wale’s SM Militants group, appear to take subtle shots at their former boss. The lyrics, which have been widely interpreted as a diss, have set tongues wagging among music fans.
While neither Natty Lee nor Joint 77 has publicly confirmed the lyrics are aimed at Shatta Wale, the timing and content of the song have led many to speculate about a possible beef between the parties involved.
Bra Desmond’s song has undoubtedly sparked a lively debate in the Ghanaian music industry, with fans eagerly awaiting a response from Shatta Wale.
Check the song below
Entertainment
The Basketball Africa League Is Coming To Ghana!
Entertainment
Kobby Brown Set To Release Global Hit “Shock” Featuring Ahenfo
Talented Ghanaian recording and performing artiste, Kobby Brown, is gearing up to captivate music enthusiasts with her latest creation – a fusion of highlife titled ‘Shock’ on December 5th featuring talented Ghanaian high-life star, Ahenfo on this beautiful song.
The release of this masterpiece “Shock” is eagerly awaited by music lovers and industry insiders alike. It is a moment that promises to be a milestone in Kobby Brown’s career, and fans are already counting down the days until they can experience this exciting new track and was produced by Sky Beatz Classic.
As Kobby Brown continues to push the boundaries of Afrobeat and high-life and amapiano. ‘Shock’ is sure to make waves, resonating with audiences across the globe. This fusion of cultures and genres represents a new chapter in Kobby Brown’s artistic journey, and it’s bound to be a chapter worth remembering.
Stay tuned for the release of ‘Shock’ on December 5th and get ready to immerse yourself in a musical adventure like no other, courtesy of the multifaceted talent, Kobby Brown.
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