"Afrobeats In Conversation" In Collaboration With Youtube (Yxng Bane, Jidenna, Eugy, Banky W, DJ Juls, Eddie Kadi & Smade)

Amaru Don TV (ADTV) Curated and organised a special event to over 200 invited guests and taste maskers to attend the first ever "Afrobeats In Conversation" at the prestigious headquarters at Youtube in the new Google building at Kings Cross.

"Afrobeats In Conversation" promoted the historical narrative and culture of AfroBeats, and the wider impact its having on the UK musical landscape. Lined up on the panel were some of the most respected artists and producers from the Afrobeats Genre, Londons biggest African event promoter and pioneers of the new UK African sound. Guests were treated to drinks, live drums, tribal make up artists, head wrap demonstrations and traditional food.

It was a privilege to be seated amongst people who have played such a significant role in the movement but most importantly it was refreshing to see African music being acknowledged and appreciated for all that it is.

The hilarious and talented Eddie Kadi led the discussion, which was then opened to the audience to ask any burning questions they couldn't hold in any longer. A controversial question asked from the audience was why don't we see enough females in African music which was answered gracefully by the panel. RNB crooner Banky W shared his thoughts on the African music scene from his time in prominence till now and Londons role in the movement whilst UK's very own DJ Jules gave a great insight from a producers perspective. Event Promoter Smade was also present.

The crowd enjoyed smashing performances from Mr dance for me, Eugy Official and rising star Yxng Bane who eventually took us all away. Everyone's favourite, DJ Neptizzle kept the crowd buzzing with some of our favourite bangers new and old. Nigerian American superstar Jidenna also joined the panel to share some more words of wisdom and the odd Igbo proverb here and there.

The theme throughout the night was profession, although a lot of the new sounds have branched away from what Fela Kuti began it is still heavily inspired by it. 40 years later music of African origin has taken over the globe, raking millions of views on YouTube daily, with artists selling out shows globally. Finally, people around the world are waking up and listening to what Africa has to say through our music. In relation to a comment Banky W made, Africa is no longer about poverty stricken children who need to be sponsored. It is so much more and I am happy to witness this.