Main Performers | Hugh Masekela - South African trumpet, flugelhorn Bassekou Kouyate - ngoni, Angelique Kidjo, Ami Sacko - vocals |
Set List | Bassekou Kouyate and Ami Sacko, Angelique Kidjo INTERVAL Hugh Masekela |
Performance Notes | Stars of Africa features some of the best sounds and talent from the continent, headlined by living legend Hugh Masekela, the extraordinary South African trumpeter and singer who has travelled the globe with his soulful sounds. He is South Africas most enduring musical ambassador with music that brims over with a contagious, joyful warmth and optimism.
He is joined on stage by internationally renowned African artists Angelique Kidjo and Bassekou Kouyate. A powerful and charismatic singer, Angelique Kidjo mixes driving dance rhythms, passionate political lyrics and an extraordinary stage presence, described by Time Out as "an electrifying cool - as contemporary, stylish and vibrant as it comes". Bassekou Kouyate is one of the greatest masters of the ngoni, a traditional lute found throughout West Africa. The Guardian described his music as "both ancient and utterly contemporary .... like an African answer to Hendrix."
British actor, playwright and singer Kwame Kwei-Armah hosts the evening along with Rita Ray who is a live DJ, radio presenter and an authority on afrobeat.
Funds raised through the concert go to international development charity VSO, who celebrate 50 years of bringing sustainable change to the worlds poorest countries. All proceeds will support VSOs education work in Africa. |
Related Archival Material | Programme (RAHE/1/2008/184), Handbill (RAHE/6/2008/51), Poster (RAHE/2/2008/17) |