Nigeria’s Fela Anikulapo Kuti is recognized globally as one of the key innovators in popular music and that’s why musicians in over 20 countries annually celebrate his magnificent influence.
The commemoration is dubbed Felabration and Ghana’s edition will come off on October 15 and October 16 at the Virtual Hub, East Legon in Accra. Felabration was created by Yeni Anikulapo Kuti in 1998 in honour of her father and Afrobeat creator who died a year earlier.
Artistes slated for the two-day bash in Accra include Gyedu Blay Ambolley, Steve Bedi, Owura, Kankam, Susan August, Salti, Kwamiena and NickyB.
Also in attendance will be the Patchbay, Lipstick, Ananse, Fra and Della Hayes & the Women of Colour bands.
Selected performances from the Virtual Hub as well other locations such as Brazil, United States, Japan and Australia will be streamed live via the Internet and DSTv to over 18 million viewers worldwide..The New Afrika Shrine and Freedom Park, both in Lagos, are the venues hosting Felabration in Nigeria.
A multi-instrumentalist and composer, Fela is widely known as the father of Afrobeat. Born in Abeokuta on October 15, 1938, he died on August 2, 1997.
Ghana and Nigeria have had strong musical ties for many years. Fela himself was a familiar face in Ghana and he worked with many Ghanaians in his various bands. He once said he was inspired by Ghanaian Highlife to create Afrobeat.
“Fela was a remarkable force on the world popular music scene. We are proud to be among those celebrating him. We urge all discerning music lovers to come join us salute the great African icon, ” said Kweku Amoakohene of Virtual Hub.
Ghanaian acts that have performed at previous Felabration events in Nigeria include SSUE, Wanlov, Kyekyeku, Yasmeen Helwani, Tumi Ansah, Knii Lante, Yaa Pono and the Pan-African Youth Orchestra.
Felabration in Ghana is being organized by Virtual Hub in association with Scratch Studios.
