On Wednesday, Nov. 9, at 6pm Essex County College’s Africana Institute and NJPAC will present Fela! The Music, the Movement: Creating a Generation of Political Consciousness Through Afrobeat, a discussion about the life and work of Afrobeat musical genius Fela Anikulapo Kuti. Fela Kuti was a Nigerian multi-instrumentalist, musician, composer, pioneer of the Afrobeat music genre, human rights activist, and political maverick. During the height of his popularity, he was often hailed as one of Africa’s most challenging and charismatic music performers.
Fela’s connection to politics, culture and spirituality will be explored among Panelists including Dr. Akil Kokayi Khalfani, director of the Africana Institute at Essex County College; Edward Jaheed Ashley, producer and director of the documentary Fela: Fresh from Africa; and African Orisa practitioner Babalawo Oluwole A. Ifakunle Adetutu Alagbede. The Africana Institute is Essex County College’s center for the exploration and critical examination of the African global experience. The Institute provides research opportunities and resources for students and the community. World renowned African and African diaspora scholars, performers, activists and others consistently visit Essex County College for lectures, workshops, exhibits, and performances.
An Afrobeat Dance Party with DJ Mello Mel will follow the conversation at “The Shrine” in the College’s cafeteria from 8-10pm. Admission is free.
Advance registration is recommended. RSVP here.
