Afro Punk 2015 – Grace Jones,Ms. Lauryn Hill, Gary Clark, Jr. Lenny Kravitz and more!

September 16, 2015 by Whitney Forbes

Afropunk Fest is a two day music festival that takes place, not only in Brooklyn, but also in Paris as well as Atlanta. In support of the Afropunk Global Initiative, Afropunk Fest is aimed at creating unique programming which encourages diversity, art, and community giving.

ill-for Arfo Punk Review-photo by Kyra Kverno

Ms. Lauryn Hill/ photo by Kyra Kverno

The APGI kicked off this years U.S. festival season with its first Annual Fancy Dress Ball. The Ball, which doubled as a fundraiser, took place in Brooklyn’s own Commodore Barry Park. Performances included sets by artists MikeQ, Cakes Da Killa and the iconic (and topless) Grace Jones. Guests were also treated to a full on drag ball hosted by the legendary Jack Mizrahi.

The following day marked the start of the 10th installment of Afropunk Fest. As well dressed guests arrived at Commodore Barry Park, they were immediately greeted by the delicious aromas of sizzling bar-b-que dishes, Caribbean delights, and an array of local food vendors, ranging from cheese steaks to pizza.

After festival goers filled their stomachs and downloaded the AFROPUNK FEST app (highly recommended), it was time to check out the acts. Showcasing 41 local and international Afro-Alternative musicians such as WC Kids, Raury and Peitite Noir, this two day line-up had something for everyone.

As fans made their way to the GOLD STAGE one couldn’t help but vibe to some of the best afro-electric DJ’s and bands of our generation. Performances by Young Paris, Papi Juice and Uniiqu3 treated fans to feel good Afrocentric beats and soul serenading rhythms.

When checking out the RED STAGE one thing was for sure – this was not for the fait of heart. Festival goers got in the zone by rocking out to the sounds of DJ Pat Pervert and Palaceburn. Followed by all out mosh pits during the sets of The Death Grips, Suicidal Tendencies and Danny Brown.

The main stage aka the GREEN STAGE housed a star-studded lineup where R&B sensation Kelis, flaunted her baby bump, while performing her mega hit, “Milkshake” and Lauryn Hill took to the stage to perform chart topping hits such as “Ex-Factor”. To close the night, Ms. Grace Jones returned to the stage and performed a daring rendition of her hit singles “Nightclubbing” and “Pull Up To The Bumper”.

In addition to countless other acts, day two’s fans rocked out to the likes of Gary Clark Jr. peforming his hit “When my train pulls in” followed by Lenny Kravitz, whose international hit “Are You Gonna Go My Way” left the crowd wanting more.

Gary Clark, Jr.-for Afro Punk review-photo by Kyra Kverno

Gary Clark, Jr./ photo by Kyra Kverno

Despite this being the first year that Afropunk Fest was a ticketed event, their NY installment was a huge success. If you can’t make it to the final installment this October, make sure to follow AFROPUNK and Brooklyn Roads on Twitter to see why AFROPUNK is a must add to your festival calendar.

Artists on our Radar

Ricky Stein: Texas Roots in Brooklyn

Ricky Stein/ photo courtesy of the artist

If you’re looking for music inspired by New York City with a Texan flare, look no further than Ricky Stein, a Brooklyn-based artist originally from Austin, Texas. Stein is a singer-songwriter whose music is grounded by a combination of his upbringing in Texas and his present life in the bustling streets of New York City and Downtown Brooklyn. Stein has an impressive discography of singles and albums, and since moving to New York City in August 2016, he has released a full album, “Long Summer” and many singles. Stein’s music is best defined as Americana and roots, with folk-infused acoustic and electric guitars, and his lyrics paint vivid images of nature and life. The listener feels connected to Stein, as his musical stylings resemble talent from the likes of John Prine and Bonnie Raitt. His most recent single, “Passenger,” highlights Stein’s talents with a strong harmonica section. The song’s instrumentation and structure is built on one verse, which compliments the song’s message about the uncertainty and ominousness of being a passenger on a long journey. Another standout, “Street Lights,” is a lighthearted commentary on the comfort of hope, the street lights representing persistent light even in the dead of night. Stein’s live performances are carefully tailored, his sets performed at local venues in Brooklyn like Pete’s Candy Store and many other venues known to support live roots and country music. His talents are always showcased, whether performing a solo show with a guitar and harmonica or being supported by a full band. Stein’s upcoming months are packed with performances at many venues, including Saturday, January 11th at Skinny Dennis Bar in Williamsburg and Friday, March 7th at Sunny’s Bar in Red Hook. You won’t want to miss it!

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