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

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.

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./ 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.