The Rototom Sunsplash Celebrating Africa edition continues to add outstanding artists from the continent’s musical history to its line-up, to which its 24th edition is dedicated, to be held from 12 to 19 August in Benicassim and now has over thirty names confirmed for the different stages.
South Africa’s Nkulee Dube [daughter of Lucky Dube] and Kebra Ethiopia Sound and the university of Dub Steppas – South Africas Dub Ambassadors – have made the list, along side German based Treesha who hails from Kenya and ex-backing vocalist for Gentleman. Rebellion The Recaller from The Gambia who is also based in Europe will perform at the Dancehall stage.
The main African acts are; The Nigerian singer and saxophonist Seun Kuti, son of the creator of Afrobeat in the 60s, Fela Kuti, who will appear on the festival’s Main Stage to pay tribute to one of the musical myths of Africa. Heir to his of his father’s all-powerful orchestra, Seun Kuti is, at the head of the legendary band Egypt 80, setting the course for the future of Afrobeat and vindicates himself as spokesperson for the aspirations of an entire continent, with rhythm as his only weapon.
The festival’s Main Stage will also grace Senegalese Youssou NDOUR, one of the musicians that since the beginning of his career in the 70s, has contributed most to the spread of mbalax, the popular music of Senegal. In addition to collaborating with artists like Peter Gabriel, NDOUR was also Minister of Culture in his country.
The Rototom Reggae Festival – CELEBRATING AFRICA edition has only confirmed 4 Reggae artists from Africa thus far. Hopefully as more artists are announced a more broader REGGAE line up from the continent will make the final line up..
Rototom Sunsplash Celebrating Africa edition will take place from 12 to 19 August 2017 in Benicassim, Span.
Click here to get the Full list of confirmed artists.