World Music Network

A fantastic festival is currently happening in London; Africa Utopia is curated by Senegalese superstar and human-rights campaigner Baaba Maal. Running until
the 28^th of July, the festival sees music, theatre, film, literature, dance, fashion, talks and debates on the role of art in social change. Artist to perform share Baaba Maal’s belive in the power of music for social change. Africa Utopia is part of Soutbank’s Festival of the World and London 2012 festival and takes place at the Southbank Centre. Have a look below for our top picks of the festival.

Have a look at the video with Baaba Maal on Africa Utopia:

Munto Valdo: 21 July, Purcell Room

Cameroonian musician Munto Valdo creates warm enveloping soundscapes with his one man band approach. Playing vocals, guitar, harmonica and percussion at once his music will make you marvel!

 For more information, have a look here

 Below, a clip from Munto Valdo, explaining how his Sawa Blues works

African Headwrap workshop: 22 July, Front Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall

Break away from the musical events if you ever wanted to know how to wrap headscarves according to the latest African fashion. Come and join this workshop on late Sunday morning and find out! The event is lead by headwrap artist Dee McCalla,sample fabric will be provided. Do note that a £1.75 booking fee is charged to the otherwise free event.

Have a look here for more information and how to book your tickets

Miryam Solomon: 22 July, The Front Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall

The performance of up and coming Miryam Solomon is set to be an intimate and touching experience. The London-based Eritrean singer will perform her set in Tigrinya, and is free to attend. Perfect for a Sunday evening.

For more information, click here

Angelique Kidjo: 26 July, Queen Elizabeth Hall

Africa Utopia wouldn't be the same without Woman's right's activist Angelique Kidjo. The grammy award winning singer is known for the political content of her lyrics, as wel as her charismatic presence on stage. Definatively a concert not to be missed!

Get your tickets for this event here

Angelique Kidjo will also take place in a discussion on the 22nd of July on the topic of woman, inspiration and leadership and will be joined by several other female activists; poet Lebo Mashile, Theo Sowa, Jessica horn and blogger Ms Afropolitan.

Baaba Maal and Friends: 28 July, Royal Festival Hall

Joined by ngoni (West-African lute) virtuoso Bassekou Kouyate and exceptional kora player & vocalist Mory Kanté, Baaba Maal will conclude the festival with his performance.

Get your tickets for this event here

Below is a video of an acoustic set by Baaba Maal at his appearance at TED talks.

See you there!