Steve McQueen Fela Film in Production

By David McDavitt

Whoever thought theater would be the savior of Afrobeat music? 100-plus afrobeat bands have been pounding away in relative obscurity for the last 15 years or so, delighting only the privileged few with the secret knowledge of Baba Kuti’s unique groove. Then along comes the powerful Broadway play, “Fela!” attracting an impressive pop following and critical acclaim, educating thousands about Afrobeat and “Felasophy.” Awesome. It’s powerful when your girlfriend’s 64 year old mother asks you to borrow some Fela CD’s.

No doubt in great thanks to “Fela!” on Broadway’s success, now Afrobeat fans will be treated to another miracle, a Fela Hollywood film!

Focus Features has hired British director Steve McQueen (“Hunger”) to direct, ad co-write the script with the award-winning, Nigeria-born playwright Biyi Bandele (adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s, “Things Fall Apart”/ Shakespeare Theater Co.).

"Fela might be the most globally influential pop artist outside the Beatles in the last 50 years," Focus Features’ James Schamus told Variety.

Everybody say, “yeah yeah!”

Brooklyn Afrobeat Party

The Afrobeat Renaissance continues to flourish in the US.

A new 13 piece afrobeat band based out of Brooklyn called Zongo Junction is hosting a monthly party called "Afro Funky" dedicated to afrobeat, funk and soul. The parties started in July at Public Assembly but are moving to a new venue. The nights are expected to grow as time goes on.

The next show is in Williamsburg (at the Cameo Gallery, a new music venue behind the lovin cup cafe on N 6th between Berry and Wythe). Participating bands are all based out of Brooklyn, and Williamburg in particular ( including Ikebe Shakedown, Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds, No Small Money Brass Band, Meta & The Cornerstones). Very Brooklyn-centric!

Shows typically have 3 bands and a DJ and they're charging only $5 to get in. A good deal to see 3 great bands and a DJ! The party goes from 10pm-2am

Afro Funky!
A Celebration of Afrobeat & More
Thursday, February 11
9pm - $5
Cameo Gallery

93 N. 6th St. Between Berry and Wythe
Zongo Junction
Ikebe Shakedown
The People's Champs
DJ Stylus (Brooklyn Wonderland)