Afropunk Brooklyn -Janelle Monae and Erykah Badu Shine

September 10, 2018 by Kyra Kverno

Photo Pit Entrance at Afropunk / photo by Kyra Kverno

Fashion Vibe / photo courtesy of B.L.Howard Productions

Afropunk‘s 2018 Brooklyn edition was another milestone in what has become a global celebration of music, art and culture. Afropunk Festivals now take place not only in its Brooklyn birthplace, but also in Atlanta, London, Paris and Johannesburg. This year’s was once again at Commodore Barry Park under the Brooklyn Queens Expressway and was sold out. The stages and crowds have gotten bigger and the festival is no longer free, but it’s filled with the most amazing combination of high energy and a positive, laid-back vibe.

Afropunk is a festival that has a social conscience, which they demonstrate by giving out scores of free tickets to people who volunteer for community service, which is one of the ways they give back and support local communities. The security crew is often found handing out bottles of water to hard-core fans waiting for their favorite bands at the five stages (Green, Red, Black, Gold, Pink) in the hot August sun. The Art and Times area at the Festival had displays of original murals and cutting-edge works of art, while Activism Row

Janelle Monae / photo by Kyra Kverno

and The Spinthrift Market provided opportunities for individuals and not-for-profit organizations to share their world and local views.

The Festival’s most anticipated acts were Miguel, Erykah Badu, H.E.R, Pusha T, Tyler The Creator and Janelle Monae. Troi Irons and Duckwrth, among others, proved to

be crowd pleasers as well. The “big” acts performed on the Green stage, where people waited most of the day for their favorites, with some with extra delays, but the fans did not seem to mind. They were overjoye

Fantastic Negrito / photo by Kyra Kverno

d when Janelle Monae hit the stage, playing songs from her new album, Dirty Computer. The two-day festival closed with Erykah Badu, and, joining her, both on stage and in the crowd, was Monae, who sang “Bag Lady” from Erykah Badu’s 2000 album, Mama’s Gun. The crowd went wild!

If you have any preconceived notions about anyone or any style of music, you should leave that nonsense at home and get educated- Afropunk is a festival not to be missed.

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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