Saturday, January 13, 2024

On Air This Week: Calypso! Brand New Planet Afropop + Jarama

Dear TheBlackList,

We're genuinely thrilled to share with you the array of captivating content on our site this week.

First and foremost, we are now offering a 20% DISCOUNT FOR SIGNUPS TO CAMP AFROPOP, FOR ALL WHO SIGN UP BEFORE FEBRUARY 1! Alongside our regular weekly shows, we encourage you to spread the word about this remarkable gathering in May, 2024. More details below.

Now, with heartfelt enthusiasm, let's dive into what's in store for you on afropop.org..


ON AIR THIS WEEK:



Calypso, Reggae and Jab-Jab Soca: Musical Resistance in Grenada


Get swept away by the rhythm of Grenada's beating heart. This program dives deep into the island's soul, where music pulsates with the echoes of history, the fever of Carnival, and the voices of its people.

Calypso and reggae lay the bedrock, sun-kissed melodies weathered by time. Calypso giants Ajamu and Black Wizard share their wisdom, each verse a testament to their island roots. Then, feel the ground quake as Moss International, genre-bending pioneers, unleash their innovative sound.

But Grenada's music isn't frozen in time. Plunge headfirst into the electrifying storm of jab-jab soca, born from the electrifying chaos of Carnival. Pioneers Tallpree and Mr Killa tell their stories, each beat a jolt of pure energy.

And the future whispers on the wind. Rising stars like Sabrina Francis, a young voice swirling with soul, jazz, R&B, and folk, weave fresh threads into the island's musical tapestry. Each note carries the vibrant legacy of generations past, while yearning for a future brimming with possibility.

This is more than a concert; it's a conversation. Grenada's history dances in every rhythm, its spirit soars in every harmony. Lend an ear, and you'll hear the whispers of the island's turbulent past, the echoes of its vibrant present, and the dreams of its future, all sung by the voices of its own.




Planet Afropop: A Conversation with Okwy Osadebe


Close your eyes and settle in for a warm, friendly chat. Okwy Osadebe, son of the iconic Nigerian highlife musician Chief Osita Osadebe, sits down with Georges Collinet and Eme Awa from WOWD Radio for a candid conversation. It's an insightful look into the life and enduring legacy of Okwy's father, a true giant in the world of highlife.

But the talk doesn't stay in the past. Okwy shares his own experiences in the US, his creative path, and the inspiration behind his new album, "Igbo Amaka." This album bridges generations, blending traditional flavors with modern touches, showcasing Okwy's deep roots and innovative spirit.

And then, the music kicks in. We hear Okwy's fresh sounds alongside his father's classic tunes, creating a beautiful dialogue between past and present. It's not just an interview; it's a celebration of Nigerian highlife, keeping its vibrant beat alive for the 21st century.

Ready to explore further? Head over to afropop.org to learn more about highlife from around the world. Check out "Igbo Amaka" and discover music that connects us all.


 

Jarama


Enter the heartwarming embrace of 'Jarama,' a masterful EP by the renowned Moroccan artist Saïd Chalaban and his band, Chalaban. This collection is a tender fusion of Gnawa and chaâbi rhythms with innovative dub and rock influences. Each track, especially the soul-stirring 'Jarama' and the emotionally charged 'Ya Weylou,' tells a story of heritage, longing, and the complexities of human emotions, all through the powerful, intimate vocals of Tichiti.

'Jarama' is more than just music; it's a personal invitation from Saïd Chalaban to explore the depths of multicultural melodies and rhythms. It's a journey that connects the listener to the very essence of artistic expression, blending diverse musical traditions into a harmonious and deeply moving experience.

Experience this unique and intimate musical adventure today. Let 'Jarama' touch your heart, inspire your soul, and remind you of the unifying power of music. Share in the beauty of Saïd Chalaban's artistry and make 'Jarama' a part of your personal music collection.


  

     Camp Afropop 2024 
 

Camp Afropop 2024 is gearing up to be an extraordinary event with a lineup of diverse and talented artists. The festival will feature Georges Collinet, a renowned broadcaster and host of Afropop Worldwide, known for his engaging music programs​​. Natu Camara, a Guinean American artist, will bring her unique blend of R&B and hip-hop, inspired by legends like Miriam Makeba and Nina Simone​​.

Pedrito Martinez, an Afro-Cuban music maestro, will showcase his skills in folkloric music and the batá drum, having collaborated with artists like Wynton Marsalis and Bruce Springsteen​​. Samba Mapangala, a Congolese artist, offers a rich mix of African rhythms and melodies, reflecting his journey from Kinshasa to Nairobi​​.

Bakithi Kumalo, a top-ranked bass player, will present his multi-instrumental talents that have seen him perform with legends like Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba​​. The lineup also includes Jake Blount, an award-winning interpreter of Black folk music, known for his Afrofuturist approach to music​​.

Master kora player Yacouba Sissoko will bring his magical West African melodies to the festival​​. The event will also feature Sean Barlow, the founder of Afropop Worldwide, who has been instrumental in promoting African music globally​​, and Banning Eyre, a guitarist and author deeply focusing on African music and culture​​.

Rounding out the lineup is Mukwae Wabei Siyolwe, a multi-talented artist and advocate in African arts and media​​. This eclectic mix of artists and speakers promises a rich and immersive experience at Camp Afropop 2024, celebrating the diverse and vibrant landscape of African music and culture.

Scholarships available.

    
  Events in New York 

Africa & Byzantium
Now - March 3 | The Met Fifth Avenue 
1000 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10028
Tickets and Information

AAI's 2024 State of Education on Africa Virtual Conference
Fri., Jan., 19 1:00 p.m - 6:00pm.  
Tickets and Information

globalFEST
Thur., Jan., 14 7 p.m. | Lincoln Center 
Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023
Tickets and Information

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Afropop Staff:
Sean Barlow, Executive Producer
Banning Eyre, Senior Producer
Mukwae Wabei Siyolwe, Director of Development
Ceyvion Biggs, Director of New Media and Operations
Michael Jones, Chief Audio Engineer (jonesaudio.com)
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