09/7: Melanin Melodies — Fuse ODG
Fuse ODG fills stadiums worldwide. But behind the sound lies a history that goes beyond the charts. It doesn't begin on a stage in London or Los Angeles, but in Ghana, where Afrobeat first took shape through the blending of Highlife with global musical influences. Fela Kuti made it a weapon: a tool for resistance, social critique and African independence. That layer isn't always visible today, but its influence on African music and identity is undeniable.
Afrobeats has conquered the world. But what is lost when a sound grows bigger than its roots? And who holds ownership over that legacy?
This evening we explore that together with Fuse ODG. We open with a listening session in which he reflects on his own work. This is followed by an in-depth conversation about how Afrobeats contributes to preserving culture and identity, and what that means for the music industry. You take a position too. Through prompts we enter into conversation with each other around questions like: should African artists prioritise ownership over exposure? We close with a look ahead: what can the new generation do to bring culture and identity further into the world? A DJ closes out the night.
Date? Thursday 9 July
Time? 19:30 – 22:00 (Doors: 19:00)
Location? The Black Archives
Entry? €7,50
Language? English
Afrobeats has conquered the world. But what is lost when a sound grows bigger than its roots? And who holds ownership over that legacy?
This evening we explore that together with Fuse ODG. We open with a listening session in which he reflects on his own work. This is followed by an in-depth conversation about how Afrobeats contributes to preserving culture and identity, and what that means for the music industry. You take a position too. Through prompts we enter into conversation with each other around questions like: should African artists prioritise ownership over exposure? We close with a look ahead: what can the new generation do to bring culture and identity further into the world? A DJ closes out the night.
Date? Thursday 9 July
Time? 19:30 – 22:00 (Doors: 19:00)
Location? The Black Archives
Entry? €7,50
Language? English