About Zozo Afrobeat // The Hottest Side of Afrobeat
“Zozo,” taken from the Goun and Fon word for “something hot,” truly keeps the Afrobeat fires burning. A 13-piece ensemble from New York City, Zozo Afrobeat features musicians from around the world and is led by African music luminary Kaleta. Born in the Republic of Benin and raised in Nigeria, Kaleta grew up recording and performing with legendary Nigerian musicians
Fela Kuti, Femi Kuti and King Sunny Ade, shina Peters. After moving to the U.S., Kaleta toured with akoya afrobeat and most recently with Lauryn Hill.
With Zozo Afrobeat, Kaleta’s music pays homage to the greats, and yet has its own distinctive sound and energy. Like Fela Kuti, who used his music to challenge a corrupt Nigerian government, Kaleta has written songs that are socially and politically provocative. At the same time, his lyrics reflect a keen sense of humor and a message of hope. He also co- arranged/produced New york based Akoya Afrobeat ensemble written all the bands' songs.On Zozo Afrobeat’s 2008 release, “Country of Guns,” Kaleta scatters pop culture references and marvels of a country with “250 million people and 250 billion guns.” On
other songs, Kaleta sings in Yoruba, Goun, Fon, and French.he is currently working on 2 cds with 16 songs FELABRATION & AFROBEATOLOGYto be released in 2009 in conjuction with his book on his former master Fela Kuti.
On stage, Kaleta displays remarkable energy – singing, dancing, and playing guitar and percussions. The band responds accordingly, delivering
cascades of horns, hypnotic Benino-Nigerian rhythms, and captivating solos. Zozo Afrobeat has played at the Lincoln Center “Out of Doors” Festival, the Brooklyn Museum, most recently at New york city Summer stage /Central park and various clubs eg"SOB'S,ZEBULONCAFE,DROMCAFE ETC in the New York area.ZOZO AFROBEAT is open to world wide concerts...pls email us at zozoafrobeat@gmail.com.
Kaleta & Akoya Afrobeat The Spirit Of Fela Is Alive & Well Mukatsuku Records 4/5 An explosive slice of Afrobeat from Kaleta gets the licensing thumbs up from Mukatsuku, who finally get this gem to the Fela faithful. Originally clocking in at over 14 minutes, its been chopped virtually in half to add more punch and immediacy, whilst on the flip Guynamite and label boss Nik Weston add a more contemporary boogie house twist to the original, in doing so losing none of the vitality or the 'Fela' essence.
Online Now!
