The Steve Rhodes Centenary Celebration

The Steve Rhodes Centenary Celebration: Stephen Bankole Rhodes (1926-2008) is rightly celebrated as one of Africa’s finest musicologists and pioneer broadcasters. Born of mixed parentage (Nigeria/Sierra Leone/Fernando Po), his long illustrious career saw him veer into music after graduating from Oxford University, and iconic Highlife recordings and performances in London in the 1950s.He went on to study music in Germany and founded one of Africa’s most famous choral groups - The Steve Rhodes Voices, after a pioneer career as the first African producer in Africa’s first Television Station - WNTV Ibadan. He was also the first manager of the legend Fela Kuti.The event shall feature a photo exhibition and short bio-documentaries on his life and work and a panel session on the Steve Rhodes legacy.The culmination shall be a concert featuring Neo-Highlife and Afrobeat star - CEF, all the way from Nigeria.

Cef Ashanta is a boundary-pushing Afro-native artist whose music lives at the intersection of ancestral rhythm, experimental soul and storytelling. Rooted in the rich musical traditions of West Africa, his sound bridges Afrobeat, indigenous percussions, soul, jazz, and psychedelic rock creating a sonic world that is both deeply African and unapologetically global.

Before the release of his breakout project David Stones, Ashanta had already built a powerful reputation as a magnetic live performer, known for commanding the stage with raw energy, ritualistic movement, and a voice that pierces through the noise. His performances are transformative experiences, immersive, spiritual, and potent.

Ashanta's music carries the urgency of a griot and the freedom of a traveler. Singing in English, Pidgin, and native tongues, he explores themes of identity, memory etc giving voice to both personal and collective African/Human narratives.

With appearances at alternative music venues, cultural festivals, and underground art gatherings across Nigeria, Brazil and the UK.

Ed Emeka Keazor BL FRSA ACIS Assoc.FRHistS
Partner: Rose & Berkeley Chambers. 5 Force Road, Onikan, Lagos

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