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
M.Anifest Pays Nostalgic Homage To ‘Hip Hop At 50’ In New Freestyle

Ghanaian Hip Hop artist M.anifest takes us on a nostalgic journey with a new freestyle, titled “50 YEARS.”
Referencing Hip Hop icons like 2pac, Nas, The Notorious B.I.G, The Fugees, LL Cool J and the Wu-Tang Clan to name a few, M.anifest cleverly weaves this ode to a genre that he himself has come to contribute significantly to. A certified wordsmith, his skill allows him to craft a worthy tribute to Hip Hop’s enduring legacy as it celebrates 50 years.
From the genre’s origins on Sedgwick Avenue to the influence it’s had in many parts of the world, spurring genres like Hip Life (Ghana), there’s no patch of Hip Hop uncovered by the rapper affectionately called ‘the god MC’ by his fans, particularly when viewed through the lens of his lived experience.
Whether tipping his hat to Obrafour’s classic album “Pae Mu Ka”, or legendary Hip Hop albums like Kanye West’s “College Dropout” and Jay-Z’s “The Blueprint”, he poignantly comments on a culture that has left an indelible mark on marginalized beginnings.
The current torchbearers are of course not left out of the MikeMillzOn’Em-produced track. J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, A-Reece, Black Sherif, and Sampa The Great get honourable mentions as boundary pushers of the genre, emphatically suggesting that Hip Hop remains a vibrant and relevant force in contemporary music and perhaps in safe hands.
M.anifest’s commemoration of the 50th anniversary has gone beyond his music. This year, he has actively engaged in discussions in academia, with an appearance at Howard University as a special guest, where he shared his insights on Hip Hop’s evolution from an African perspective over the past five decades. In July 2023, he was in New York at Global Cognac giant Hennessy’s invitation, joining a roster of world-renowned rappers to celebrate one of Hip Hop’s greats, Nas.
LISTEN HERE: M.anifest – ‘50 YEARS’ Freestyle
Entertainment
Wasiuskyboy Features Awal Dexta On New Motivational Song ‘Oluwa’

luwa which was mixed by the ever famous Danny Beatz is currently available on all download portals. The video, however can be accessed without hitchs on YouTube.
Entertainment
Maa Fausty Wins Legendary Diaspora Gospel Artiste Of The Year – Ghana Music Awards Europe 23

Ghanaian based UK talented gospel songwriter, singer and performer Maa Fausty won the “Legendary Diaspora Gospel Artist Of The Year” at the 2nd edition of Ghana Music Awards Europe (GMAE).
The “Ghana Music Awards Europe 23” happened last saturday September 16, 2023 at Salle Atrium Route De Cormeilles 95100 Argenteuil.
Maa Fausty secured the award for her contribute to the industry and also for her good work done.
She received a customized plaque and a certificate. She accepted the awards and appreciated the awards scheme and her fans for their votes and support.
The even saw performances from the legendary musician, Nana Acheampong, Bessa Simons, Lucky Star Band, Piesie Esther etc as well as Mr Logic of UTv and Ghanaian fashionister Osebo the zara man as special guest.
Entertainment
Danny Lampo Clinches Best Diaspora Reggae Dancehall Artiste Of The Year At Ghana Music Awards Europe

Entertainment
Dr Princess Cornelia Adamu Wins Woman Entrepreneur Of The At The 6th Ghana Outstanding Woman’s Award(GOWA)

Business mogul and hardworking female entrepreneur Dr. Princess Cornelia Adamu have been at the receiving end of awards at the just-ended Ghana Outstanding Woman’s Award(GOWA).
The female entrepreneur and philanthropist who doubles as the CEO of Rickens Company Limited received two awards at the event which was held on 10th September 2023 at the Accra International Conference Center.
Rickens Company Limited is a multi-purposed company located in Accra, Ghana which is engaged in building construction, manufacturing and fabricating of UPVC windows and doors, aluminum windows and doors, roofing sheets, wood works and roofing of houses, POP and plasterboard ceilings, alucobond cladding and curtain wall, burglar proofs and general metal works, partitioning and all types of the balustrade.
Her imprint of success in the sector is evident in the growth of Rickens Construction which has transcended the borders of Ghana to Turkey and other European countries. She is an advocate for women and children’s rights and has led advocacy in streamlining conversations and projects that make life easier. She has received multiple nominations and awards in her field of work and also maintains a great interest in the media and creative industry.
The night saw ace broadcaster Nathaniel Attoh and saw performances from young female singer Naja and Eno Barony.
The humanitarian award initiative celebrates and honors women who are devoted to the welfare of humanity. ASKOF Productions; organizers of the award scheme seek to reward women impacting the industry and the business scope in diverse ways.
ABOUT DR. PRINCESS CORNELIA ADAMU
Business mogul and entrepreneur, Princess Cornelia Adamu is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the CEO of Rickens Group Company.
Rickens Group Company consists of Rickens Construction Limited, Rickens Oil and Gas, and Co-Founder of Livenewsgh Creative Hub.
Rickens Company Limited is a multi-purposed company located in Accra, Ghana which is engaged in building construction, manufacturing, and fabricating of UPVC windows and doors, aluminum windows and doors, roofing sheets, wood works and roofing of houses, POP and plasterboard ceilings, alucobond cladding and curtain wall, burglar proofs and general metal works, partitioning and all types of balustrade. A company with partner offices in the USA, Istanbul Turkey, Singapore, and Dubai.
On Point Pumps, Oil And Gas and also one of the leading suppliers of fuel dispensers and supplies to almost all the big oil and gas brands in Ghana and beyond.
Livenewsgh Creative Hub is a platform that aims at creating interpersonal relationships between Creatives and brands to their respective clients across the globe through, brand and events management, PR, music, and digital marketing.
Princess has won countless awards at the annual Leadership Awards and has been honored at the Pan African Youth Leadership Summit Awards.
The awards won are a testament to her hard work and dedication to the rise of her companies. These are companies with partner offices in the USA, Istanbul Turkey, Singapore, and Dubai.
Story By : Zolla Nie
Entertainment
Aido Network International Incollaboration With Bishop Cynthia Adu Boateng Slated Royal Gala & Exhibition For November 25

Aido Network International Incollaboration With Cynthia Adu Boaten Slated Royal Gala & Exhibition For November 25
Mark your calendars for an electrifying celebration of culture and exhibition as Aido Network International Incollaboration With Bishop Cynthia Adu Boateng takes over London on 21st December, 2023.
The highly appreciated event, royal gala, dinner and exhibition is set to be the biggest event in London, promising unforgettable experience of all ages.
Organized by H.H Jones Eganga and Queen Grace in London collaboration with award-winning gospel singer, Bishop Cynthia Adu Boateng.
This beautiful event will take place at Hilton hotel, Croydon – London at exactly 4pm to 10pm.
Aido Network International and Bishop Cynthia Adu Boateng is inviting all chiefs, ministers, pastors, companies etc to come and support this beautiful event.
This beautiful gala night eventis organised for fundraising to the needy and the less privileged.
Check the the flyer for more info
You can also visit their website aidonetwork.org
Entertainment
GMA Europe 23: Bishop Cynthia Adu Boateng Wins Diaspora Gospel Song Of The Year

Ghanaian based Europe songwriter, singer and performer Bishop Cynthia Adu Boateng won the “Diaspora Gospel Song Of The Year” at the second edition of Ghana Music Awards Europe (GMAE).
The Ghana Music Awards Europe happened last saturday September 16, 2023 at Salle Atrium Route De Cormeilles 95100 Argenteuil.
Bishop Cynthia Adu Boateng won that award with her trendy gospel song ” Wo Fata”.
She received a customized plaque and a certificate. She accepted the awards and appreciated the awards scheme and her fans for their votes and support.
The event saw performances from the legendary musician, Nana Acheampong, Bessa Simons, Lucky Star Band, Piesie Esther etc as well as Mr Logic of UTv and Ghanaian fashionister Osebo the zara man as special guest.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Naf Kassi Titles Upcoming EP “AHYASI”

Talented Ghanaian Highlife artiste, Nafisatu Kassim, popularly known in the music scene as Naf Kassi, is set to release her much anticipated first studio album soon.
Naf Kassi released the arty album cover for her upcoming project, “Ahyasi” which means Beginning in English and just like the title implies, the singer appears to be taking us back to the beginning.
Having performed creditably in the Ghanaian music scene for three years, Naf Kassi is recognised as one of the talented young highlife acts who has been consistent in her musical career.
“This year (2023), the album is coming. I’m glad to inform you that, It’s like 90 percent done,” she revealed.
Naf Kassi said her fans should expect a great piece of musical work from her, adding that “these collections of songs are like your favourite playlist, now lets have fun.”
Naf Kassi joined the music industry in 2019 with her doubt single titled ‘Mane Me’, which she features her younger brother ‘Rocky Best’ on it.
Ever since she joined the local music scene, Naf Kassi has shared the stage with the likes of Kofi Kinaata, Fameye, Naana Blu, Nero X, Dope Nation and a host of others.
In a facebook post, she wrote;
Announcing:
It’s Been A Journey and I want to say thanks to You all for the Love and support. You asked for it, and it’s Ready
#MaxxMusic EP-2023 #AhyasiEP #WeShallOverCome🏹
— #NAFKASSI
👽🌍
Although details (track-list & release date) for the project is yet to be known, fans and music consumers are already anticipating the masterpiece.
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