Brooklyn Academy Of Music Pays Tribute To Fela Kuti On World AIDS Day

In recognition of World AIDS Day, this coming Friday and Saturday (12/1 & 12/2) BAM (The Brooklyn Academy of Music) will hold a special tribute for the most influential and important Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Kuti. His inimitable mix of syncopated James Brown funk, West African percussion, and politically driven lyrics, paired with a “revolution now” mentality, exposed the corruption and hypocrisy of the Nigerian government, transcending his status far beyond music legend. Kuti fought for untainted African autonomy free from foreign influences. Though his life ended too soon in 1997, claimed by AIDS, his songs will live on, remembered in part through BAM’s tribute.

With a life story, live band, and music as awe inspiring as Fela’s, the Brooklyn Academy of Music has compiled a show that will be second only to the original. Distinguished artists include Amadou & Mariam, Cheikh Lô, Les Nubians and Meshell N’degeocello, performing interpretations to benefit the African Services Community, an organization that supports New York City’s African and Caribbean immigrant population through essential HIV/AIDS care. Come enjoy the show and support the cause.