Embodying the spirit of Fela Kuti, Obi Original and The Black Atlantics opened their first night of a month-long residency at Green Room on April 2.
Obi Original and The Black Atlantics introduce a music style with a rich political history: Afro-rock. Think of the sounds reminiscent of Bob Marley, Fela Kuti, and other diasporic thought leaders of the ‘70s.
Though this is their first residency, Obi Original and The Black Atlantics are no strangers to performing—especially in the Twin Cities. Obi is part of the Afrobeats record label Ozone Creations, which comprises six genre-bending artists: Barkarii, Sumer, Mack OC, Breezy2Fresh, and Chinwe N’du. These artists and many other incredibly talented musicians make up The Black Atlantics.
Crowded on the intimate stage was a buffet of traditionally African instruments such as talking drums, shekeres and congas. The standout was the saxophonist, Jovon, featured on each song. Obi Original led with charisma and eccentricity on the lead guitar. Quoting Fela Kuti, he stated, “99% of what you’ve learned about Africa is wrong.” His mission, he stated, was to inspire a “reeducation of Africa to the States.”
Fela Kuti is regarded as the King of Afrobeat, a Nigerian-birthed melting pot genre of highlife, jazz, funk, calypso, and traditional Yoruba music. His political influence is the primary driver of his work. In the 1970s, Kuti opened the Kalakuta Republic, a commune, recording studio, nightclub (Afrika Shrine), and hotel. The Republic was later raided and burnt down by 1,000 Nigerian soldiers after Kuti released “Zombie,” an album that critiqued the Nigerian military.
Afrobeat has gained popularity in the States thanks to Wizkid, Burnaboy, and even Minnesota’s own Libianca, with her award-winning hit “People.” Last summer, she toured the world as an opener for Alicia Keys, and Mr. Obi Original slapped the bass alongside her.
Obi’s Nigerian background is at the forefront of his artistry. He plans to honor his people and those who’ve come before him. He cites Kuti, Davido, and Bob Marley as his main inspirations. The stage design, by Creative Director Angel Adaeze, reimagines the New Afrika Shrine (previously Kuti’s Afrika Shrine) with scattered protest posters quoting Africa’s thought leaders, as well as projections of Kuti and Marley’s iconic performances, thereby “creating a shrine in itself to the pan-African legends,” according to Adaeze.
The Green Room residency runs every Tuesday in April with a different, diverse slate of openers. Mayyadda stunned with her acoustic guitar and soaring vocals for the premiere show. She was followed by Sumer, accompanied by her commanding stage presence, a cozy band, and a special appearance by her little nephew, who quickly won the hearts of the audience.
The following weeks will feature other artists who comprise Ozone Creations: Bakarii, Mack OC, and Bouchet Boyz, as well as local favorites Fanaka Nation, Brandyn Lee Tulloch, Miloe, Kion Rose, and Bigg Kiaa. Each opener offers various genres but finds a grounding home in Afrobeats.
Tickets for the innovative 18+ events are available on Green Room’s website. Obi Original and The Black Atlantics residency at Green Room runs every Tuesday in April until April 29, with doors opening at 7 p.m. at 2923 Girard Ave. S.,Minneapolis. Admission is $15.
Angel Akurienne welcomes reader responses at angelakurie@gmail.com.
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