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Past Event
London during the 70s witnessed the band Osibisa launch their unique brand of African fusion music on the world stage to an adoring public. As we approach their 50th anniversary, join us for a celebratory evening of the band's achievements and their 'happy music' ideology.
We're delighted to host the leader of the band Teddy Osei, in conversation with Rita Ray, Kevin Le Gendre, musician and compère Eric Carboo and guests. Discover how the band's African-styled dress code symbolised the age of ‘Black Power’ and how for a moment their ‘brand’ changed the world by bringing together multicultural audiences. Hear about their work supporting younger artists and musicians back home and discuss what lies ahead for the future of Afrobeat?
Inspired by West African and Caribbean roots, Osibisa became one of the first African Caribbean groups that appealed to a mainstream audience with their fusion of jazz, funk, calypso, Latin, pop and rock references. The definition of Osibisa is the criss-cross rhythms that explode with happiness and their hits include ‘Sunshine Day’, ‘Gong Gong Song’, ‘Dance the Body Music’ and ‘The Coffee Song’. After the main event enjoy an Osibisa-inspired Highlife and Afrobeat soundtrack in the Grand Entrance. Paid bar available.
In collaboration with Jacob Roberts-Mensah and Our Day
Film Supported by the British Council
Recognises the UNESCO Decade for People of African Descent 2015 – 2024
image credit: Osibisa, Courtesy of Teddy Osei
