We’re happy to invite the brilliant radio producer and seasoned British DJ Emily Dust (Soho Radio) to help us navigate through the lesser-known networks of incredible music boiling deep underground on the continent. She has built a solid reputation for locating & showcasing the freshest sounds on the planet and recently produced a compelling program about Gqom music in South Africa for BBC World Service.
We absolutely love African contempary popular music, there is nothing quite like it, and we play it whenever we can. Like anywhere else though, the mainstream pop music scenes in African countries tend to be flooded with the same kind of sounds - often vaguely gathered under the recent and quite unsatisfying umbrella term "Afrobeats". The traditional gatekeeping around what gets played on radio and TV stations, coupled with economic barriers and the lack of an established creative infrastructure, makes it often difficult for alternative and innovative artists to get their music out into the world.
Many cities have become hubs for creative, experimental musicians who are making waves behind the scenes though: Kampala, Durban, Nairobi, Accra, Cairo, Cape Town, Lagos & more!
Characterized by their DIY attitude and the kind of determined hustle that comes from having to find success with limited resources, a crop of independent, ambitious artists have been working in the background, pushing new sounds and expanding the boundaries of their city’s and country’s music scene.
come with an open mind and leave with sore legs!
+ Emily Dust
+ DJ Mixanthrope
Abendkasse: tba