Carnegie Hall is one of New York’s most influential music venues, which has transcended eras and genres. The building is reminiscent of the Italian Renaissance with the vibrant red, classic feel, and the arches that drape the building. Many powerful, revolutionizing artists and their music have graced the stages of this hall.On the night of November 5^th, Angelique Kidjo and Friends performed in honor of Miriam Makeba, South African singer and political activist of the Apartheid. The vibrant and joyful show, praised the life of Makeba and her work with South Africa. Kidjo created an upbeat and engaging show that had the audience on their feet and over the balcony—before security rushed to their side and forced them to sit down. Although there were many African songs, it lacked the diasporic sound that I normally associated with diasporic music. The performance seemed commercialized, granted the music had to be changed to accustom a wide array of people. Nonetheless, the performance provided me with a new perspective on African music.

-Misgana Ghidewon, Class of 2018

Hear Angelique talk about the influence Miriam Makeba had on her

Read the excerpt from the program about the performance!

For more on 2014’s UBUNTU Fest see Carnegie Hall’s website.