On Sunday August 27th, I attended the one and only Afropunk Festival in Brooklyn NY. For those that do not know about Afropunk fest, it is an annual arts festival that celebrates and brings about unity within the music, film, and the art community. Its originators define it as “culture by the collective creative actions of an individual and/or group. It is a safe place, a blank space to freak out in, to construct a new reality, to live your life as you see fit, while making sense of the world around you.”
May I just say as soon as I walked into the park, I entered into what society would call “the land of the misfits” or an “obscene” playground. In my eyes I was nowhere else but home. I felt like for once I belonged and that I was surrounded by nothing but brothers and sisters that loved me dearly. Every year I attend it gets better and better. I am able to meet up with long distance friends that I love deeply and make new ones from across the globe. Let’s just say it’s one big ass reunion for the art community!
I am so thankful that I was able to come in contact with everyone I wanted to meet in the art community. For example, I ran into sex educator, writer, and performer Ericka Hart. As well as her partner in crime “The infamous Ebony”! Ericka is one of my role models and has such a large impact in our community. I definitely look forward to running into her again and collaborating with her in the near future.
Last but not least, I want to give recognition to all of the wonderful performances at the festival. Not only do I attend for the association and nostalgia, but I love the talent brought to the stage. From Solange to Serpent with feet, the talent is impeccable, and like no other. The diversity brought to each stage is groundbreaking. I want to thank Afropunk for considering everyone and going outside of what is considered “mainstream” music.
The artist that I was looking forward to seeing the most, was the one and only Kaytranada. I have been a fan for such a long time and to watch this man perform was such an amazing experience. Not only did he create such a miraculous vibe, but he gave me my life back. You can feel through his music how in love he is with what he does, the amount of love he has for his fans, and how much time and energy he puts into each masterpiece. On the aux his music sounds wonderful, but on stage it’s Phenomenal. From the stage presentation down to the surprise appearances, it all comes together as one grand fulfillment.
Thank you again Afropunk Brooklyn.
I love you dearly, peace until next time!
