The spirit of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti is set to ignite the United Kingdom as Felabration 2024 launches today, Thursday, October 18 across major UK cities.
The festival, themed “Look and Laugh,” marks a significant collaboration between Morpheus Multimedia’s The Gidi Vibes™ platform and several cultural institutions, transforming Sheffield and Hull into epicentres of Afrobeat celebration from October 18 to 20.
Network Sheffield hosts the opening ceremonies featuring an impressive lineup of performers including curators Sensei Lo, YINXDJINX and DJ Nas B. The celebration will then move to Hull’s prestigious Ferens Art Gallery, culminating in an exclusive after-party at ATIK Nightclub.
This year’s edition holds particular significance as it partners with Hull Museums and Gallery to showcase the “Seen and Unseen” exhibition, highlighting works by prominent artistes of colour. The Black Heritage of Hull Creatives and Crux Nxtion Events in Sheffield have joined forces to ensure the festival’s success, while TransferGo’s involvement bridges communities across continents.
“Felabration isn’t just a music festival – it’s a cultural movement that keeps Fela’s revolutionary spirit alive,” said a spokesperson for Morpheus Multimedia. “By bringing this celebration to the UK, we’re creating a platform for both established and emerging artists to contribute to Fela’s enduring legacy.”
The festival also features an innovative digital art initiative, inviting artistes worldwide to contribute to a virtual mural celebrating Fela’s impact. This collaborative artwork will be displayed across event venues, merging traditional cultural celebration with contemporary digital expression.
Originally conceived by Fela’s daughter Yeni Kuti in 1998, Felabration has evolved from a local Nigerian celebration into a global phenomenon, drawing audiences and artists from around the world to honour the man who used music as a powerful tool for social change and political commentary.
Organisers anticipate a transformative weekend that will celebrate Fela’s musical genius as well as strengthen cultural bonds between communities and generations.
