Afropunk Brings The Punk To Close Out Summer in Brooklyn !

September 14, 2016 by Ray Fontaine

Saul Williams at Afropunk Fest Brooklyn 2016 / photo by Kyra Kverno

Every year at Brooklyn’s Commodore Barry Park, Afropunk helps the summer season go out with a bang. Everyone was ready to celebrate good music and Brooklyn at this two day extravaganza featuring acts like Ceelo Green, TV on the Radio, Janelle Monae, Flying Lotus and Tyler the Creator. Since its’ debut in 2004, the festival had been free, but in 2015 the organizers decided to charge for tickets. Despite the admission price, its’ popularity seems to have increased. Now an international enterprise, Afropunk now travels to Atlanta, Paris and London. The festival makes good use of its growing budget, with free water and charging stations keeping attendees hydrated and connected in the heat. They also provided gaming fun like giant Connect Four and adult tricycle races. Beauty brand Carol’s Daughter, an Afropunk sponsor, was twisting wreaths of flowers into hair, offering tribal white face paint and handing out branded water bottles.

afropunk-2016_body-marbling-station-photo-by-ray-fontaine

Afropunk Fest Brooklyn 2016 body marbling station / photo by Ray Fontaine

People from all over Brooklyn funneled in through the entrances and the line stretched down the block. A diverse display of costumes and Afros were out to play, including green, purple and pink hairdos. Complimentary entertainment filled the park, as “Friends of Afropunk” tents like the Art Hoe Collective and Bitchcraft offered interactive art projects to festival goers. Toyota’s education initiatives included a giant collaborative art wall full of balls with messages about music, car giveaways, body marbling station, vinyl mixing booths at the vinyl cityscape and fun giveaways like chain-stitched bandanas.

Afropunk Fest Brooklyn 2016 -Living Colour / photo by Kyra Kverno

Qaasim and the Juggernaut War Party featured a classical standing base on the Green Stage in the early afternoon on Saturday. Lead guitarist and singer Qaasim Middleton sat and sang metaphorical lyrics like “I am a dragon breathing fire, I’m coming after you.” The music at times was eerie, poignant and dark, blending elements of heavy metal, gospel, and folk.

Afropunk Fest Brooklyn 2016-Kelsey Lu / photo by Kyra Kverno

Afropunk is not only a celebration of music, but also a cultural event that boosts up the Brooklyn brand and rocket launches new artists. If you decide to experience the next Afropunk for yourself and enjoy all the fun activities, be sure to get there early to beat the crowd. Be prepared for some serious heat and not just from the epic band performances!

Artists on our Radar

Jessi Robertson: A Voice for the Vulnerable

Jessi Robertson-Memory and Abandoned Parts Album Art

Jessi Robertson is a powerhouse voice that captivates you from the first note. In a world where music is often a safe place for personal expression, she stands out as a compelling voice for the vulnerable. With her vivid lyrics and haunting melodies, her over 15-year career as a musician has carved a way for herself in the folk and Americana music scene, captivating audiences with her raw honesty and emotional depth. Born in a small town in upstate New York, Robertson’s journey into music began at an early age. Robertson moved to Brooklyn in 2003, as she honed her craft, recognizing its ability to speak directly to the human experience with authenticity and sincerity. Once in BK, she released her debut album, “Small Town Girls,” in 2010, which gained much traction for its lyrics and soul-stirring melodies. Following this came her 2014 release “I Came From The War.” Throughout her career, Robertson has fearlessly tackled themes ranging from love and loss to social justice and mental health. Her most recent release, “Memory and Abandoned Parts (15-Year Anniversary Edition of Who We Are, What We Have Done)” is a re-release of her original 2008 album. She continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, as the release explores the complexities of the human condition. Robertson’s impact extends beyond the recording studio. Recognizing the power of music to effect change, she uses her platform to advocate for issues close to her heart. Whether performing at charity events or speaking out on social media, Robertson is committed to using her art as a force for good. Through her music, Robertson invites listeners to confront the complexities of the human experience with empathy and compassion, reminding us of the power of art to bridge divides and inspire change. As she continues to evolve as an artist and an advocate, one thing remains certain: Jessi Robertson’s voice will echo in the hearts and minds of listeners for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape.

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