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Fela Kuti’s Birthday tribute concert is the annual event to celebrate the originator of Afrobeat. The concert comes to Birmingham on Friday 14th October 2011 at The Hare & Hounds. This event celebrates his music, his life, his fashion, and all the many truths that he shared in his music and his life. Join us in celebrating one of the most important Africans of the 20th century!
The concert will be led by Fela’s Egypt 80 keyboardist and musical director of award winning musical “FELA”, Dele Sosimi and his ensemble. Dele moved to London in 1995 from Nigeria and stands out as one of the most active musicians currently on the Afrobeat scene worldwide. His dedication to Afrobeat has contributed to the development of many musical influences and interests in multi-cultural London.
From his early discovery as a green 16 year old keyboardist by Fela Kuti, who brought him into his band Egypt 80, Dele rose to prominence as musical director of the 30 piece band during the 80’s and 90’s. Whilst at the helm he hatched a plan for a new more aggressive sound, with an old school mate, who just happened to be Fela’s son Femi Kuti. The result was the band Positive Force, with whom he toured globally for a decade, honing his craft and exploring all the richness of this amazing music.
Increasingly Jazz and other styles started to feature in his thinking and Dele opted to jump ship and pursue his own musical vision, packing his bags and heading to London to form his own group. Being his own man has really suited him, allowing the realization of his own vision – one that’s faithful to the Fela blueprint, but also clearly bears Dele’s own DNA, exploring the jazzier side of Afrobeat.
Fela was known for his showmanship, and his concerts were often quite outlandish and wild. In recent years there has been a revitalization of Fela’s influence on music and popular culture, culminating in another re-release of his catalogue controlled by Universal Music, off-and-on Broadway biopic shows, and new bands, such as , who carry the Afrobeat banner to a new generation of listeners.
Dele has performed extensively throughout the world including major jazz festivals such as the Montreux Jazz Festival. Dele frequently performs at some of London’s hippest venues such as the Jazz Café and the Shrine. Afrobeat Vibration, Deles Bimonthly sessions have also grown to be London’s top underground event. Sosimi also went down a storm at the Mostly Jazz Festival 2011 in Birmingham.
Dele has always shown his love for Fela’s music,from his day as a band member in Egypt 80 to him currently flying solo. Fela’s and Dele’s music will be performed on the night. Dele will be supported on the night by DJ Ade and Bobbalin’ Hot. Come and join us in the colourful celebration of Fela Kuti’s legacy!
Djs include Dj Ade and Bobblin hot
Check out the special Felabration mix by Bobblin Hot below!
http://www.mixcloud.com/bobbiejane/felabration-mix/
Advance tickets priced £10. Tickets available from:
http://www.theticketsellers.co.uk/ 0844 870 0000
