As Inspiro+Zome Naijazz-Afrobeat Tribute Concert Hold In Lagos
Ace Afrobeat drummer and former member of Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s band, Tony Allen, will be honoured today, as Inspiro Productions, Zome International and Metroventures hold a tribute concert at the upscale Reserve Lounge, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Chief Executive Officer, Inspiro Productions and founder/organiser of Lagos International Jazz Festival, Mr. Ayoola Sadare, said, “Tony Allen is our very own living legend worthy of celebration and once the opportunity came for us to do so, we jumped at it. His impact on Afrobeat, Jazz and World music is undeniable. In Europe and on the global music scene, he is still very active, highly recognized, well sought-after, and respected for his contributions to music generally.
“As he turns 80 next year, we want to be one of the first to wish him a happy birthday in advance here in Nigeria with this event, as we know many other things are being planned to celebrate him around the world. Allen is a worthy cultural ambassador of Nigerian-African music and we are extremely proud of him and honoured to be able to celebrate him, too. This tribute also comes as recognition of the impact the musical creation he was part of birthing, Afrobeat, is making waves globally and the many fusions it has created and interest it continues to generate. Afrobeat has given Nigerian music an identity that has moved it from the general world music category to being in a genre of its own like reggae and others. Allen, playing and collaborating alongside Fela Kuti, ensured and shaped the genre of music. We use this concert to recognise that strong contribution.”
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Source: guardian.ng
