Plans to celebrate the rich thread of African music, culture and creativity in the Granite City with a special Aberdeen Music Week this summer are being supported by Aberdeen Inspired.
The Business Improvement District is backing city-based Raven Afrikulture who are organising the event from August 20 to 23 as a flagship offshoot of their successful Afro Indie Series which immerses audience in the “heart and soul” of Afro-indie music.
Both the series – which returns at the Lemon Tree on Saturday, April 5 - and the planned music week aim to give local artists the chance to support and share their creativity with established and well-known African musicians.
Adedeji Ekundayo, and Adebayo Winsala, founders of Raven Afrikulture, said they are looking forward to both the start of the Afro Indies series –supported by Aberdeen Performing Arts – and the inaugural Aberdeen Music Week.
Thanking both Aberdeen Inspired and APA for their support, they said: “We believe music is a universal language that connects hearts and communities.
“The goal of the Afro Indie Series and Aberdeen Music Week is to celebrate Aberdeen’s vibrant Afro-indie talents, providing a platform for artists to share their stories in their voices.
“It’s all about culture, connection, and creating a home away from home experience, fostering cultural exchange, celebrating diversity, and strengthening community bonds."
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said he was delighted to support Aberdeen Music Week, one of Raven Afrikulture’s flagship music programmes.
He said: “One of the great strengths of the Granite City is the many communities who add their rich culture, passion and vision as a golden thread in the multicultural tapestry that makes Aberdeen such a vibrant and welcoming place.
“We are delighted to help Raven Afrikulture celebrate Afro-indie music, encourage and foster local artists and talent and bring their distinct and compelling voice to a wider audience, all while bringing people together.
“The inaugural Aberdeen Music Week will help attract people into the city centre to not only enjoy the event, discover new music and talent, but also visit the many other attractions the Granite City has to offer.”
Aberdeen Music Week will be a four-day celebration of music, culture, and industry innovation, featuring an engaging mix of intimate discussions, spotlighting young talents, networking opportunities, and live performances.
To be held at a variety of venues, it aims to inspire creativity, foster collaboration, and spotlight talent, bringing together music enthusiasts, professionals, and the wider community.
Meanwhile, a taste of what the week will offer can be found when Afro Indie Series 2.0 kicks off at the Lemon Tree on Saturday, April 5.
The first performance is headlined by Lagos based artist Tomi Thomas who will take to stage alongside talented local artists including AiiTee, Eri Ife, LikkLe bVnti, and host for the evening London’s very own Radio God Lanre Shonubi.
More information and tickets can be found here.