In Building Black Civilizations: Journey of 2,000 Ships, Nimako reimagines ancient African kingdoms, with four major works featured in the exhibition. Using various LEGO® elements as his medium, Nimako explores the mysterious 14th century sea voyage of Mansa Abu Bakr II, predecessor of Mansa Musa, ruler of the medieval empire of Mali.
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Halima shares her latest single "Ways," the follow-up to her previous hit "Awaken," which received recognition from BBC Radio's Benji B and Clash Magazine. Both tracks will feature on her upcoming EP EXU (pronounced Eshu), set for release on May 24th via drink sum wtr.
Halima's Nigerian heritage. Exu (Eshu) is the Yoruba deity of “crossroads,” the great mediator between the forces of life and the messenger between humans and gods.
"They are known for being the God of change, chaos, and unpredictability, so they are often misunderstood," Halima explains.
"But they are present in our lives to bring us to better versions of ourselves. This project is about facing Exu and resisting it. Then succumbing and realizing Exu is within you."
In "Ways," Halima delves into the emotions of a new romantic interest, showcasing her musical prowess.
The track opens with hollow drums, crafted to mirror the exhilarating rush of intense attraction. Halima's dynamic vocals effortlessly navigate the R&B hooks, narrating the experience of being kept awake by love. The song progresses with propulsive beats and ethereal harmonies, creating a mesmerizing blend.
Halima is set to perform alongside Elliot Moss in Washington D.C., New York, and Boston this April, with a headline show in LA on June 12th at The Moroccan Lounge. Her background, spanning Lagos, London, and now Brooklyn, influences her music, rooted in folk, jazz, and theatrical elements.
The EXU EP, her label debut with drink sum wtr, reflects her Nigerian heritage, drawing inspiration from the Yoruba deity Exu (Eshu), symbolizing change and transformation.
Halima's project embraces Exu's essence, exploring themes of resistance, acceptance, and personal growth.
Discover the vibrant history and achievements of Black Canadians with the University of Alberta's latest micro-course, "Black Canadians: History, Presence, and Anti-Racist Futures." This on-demand course delves into the profound impact of Black Canadians from the nation's inception to its ongoing journey.
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Outdoor Afro, Inc. and REI Co-op are announcing a collaboration for three new fully-guided trip offerings that will operate July through October in New River Gorge National Park, Shenandoah National Park and surrounding regions. Each experience is a four-day guided trip that celebrates Black joy by amplifying belonging, togetherness, and connection with nature.
With itineraries informed by Black outdoor enthusiasts, these small group experiences will be co-guided by Outdoor Afro, Inc. and REI Co-op guides, and were designed with a focus on Black history and culture, past and present. The trips are open to everyone from outdoor enthusiasts and those who are outdoor curious, with adventure-based activities and education about nature and Black history of each region.
"As a longstanding partner of REI Co-op, I am thrilled to expand our collaboration by bringing multi-day guided experiences," said Rue Mapp, founder, and CEO of Outdoor Afro Inc.
"This collaboration is meant to bring an unforgettable experience through thoughtfully curated itineraries so there is something for everyone.
Whether you're looking for a fun family camping adventure, hiking, and kayaking, or a lodge-based experience filled with adventure and historical tours in D.C., you'll have the opportunity to explore, reconnect, and enjoy rich cultural experiences celebrating Black joy in nature."
New multi-day experiences are available to book now:
Shenandoah Hike and Camp Adventure by Outdoor Afro, Inc. is a four-day "moderately actuve trip priced at $2,799.
Guests will immerse themselves with the enchanting landscape of Shenandoah National Park by kayaking the tranquil Shenandoah River, hiking to the iconic pinnacle of Old Rag, through Big Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary, and to the park's highest point, Hawksbill Summit; exploring the waterfalls in Whiteoak Canyon; and unwinding at a local vineyard complete with a tour, tasting and dinner.
New River Gorge Epic Family Camping Getaway by Outdoor Afro, Inc. is a four-day "easy active" family-friendly camping getaway priced at $2,499
Perfect for families with children aged eight years and older, parents and grandparents alike. Guests will explore the country's newest national park, New River Gorge, through hiking, beginner-friendly whitewater rafting, and a canopy level ropes course. Evenings are spent at a cozy campground complete with rustic charm and comforts such as oversized tents, plush sleeping pads, chef-inspired meals and conveniences of hot showers and flushing toilets.
Shenandoah and DC Hike and Kayak – Lodge-based-by Outdoor Afro, Inc. is a four-day "easy active" trip priced at $1,799.
Starting and ending in Washington D.C, travelers will kayak and hike while camping at Shenandoah National Park. Beginning in historic Old Town Alexandria, guests will learn about Black history and culture, kayak the Potomac, and hike in Shenandoah Valley and the national park to sweeping views, stunning waterfalls, and the countryside. Highlights also include a local speaker who reflects on the region's divided history and a tour and tasting at a Black-owned vineyard.
"We're excited to bring these new trips to life with Outdoor Afro, Inc." says Justin Wood, REI director of Experiences. "The Outdoor Afro, Inc. team has thoughtfully considered every detail to deliver a meaningful and truly authentic experience for guests, from the food to the activities to the focus on Black history and culture, past and present, in the places we explore. These are memory-making trips, sure to last a lifetime."
Each trip has been inspired by Rue Mapp and the Outdoor Afro and REI Co-op communities. Low to no cost outdoor experiences are still available nationwide through the not-for-profit Outdoor Afro, Org.
It’s a big day for Secousse! Our first proper compilation just came out 😍
Stream it on all platform / Buy the 2xLP vinyl edition ➡️ https://tr.ee/kGuyYOfUqn
Big ❤️ to all who preordered the vinyl! We’re experiencing a little delay from the pressing plant, shipping should start around 5th April.
For all those wishing to support their local record shops, vinyl copies should hit the racks from 15th April onwards.
Worldwide vinyl distribution is handled by @thepusherdistribution
Thanks to all our collaborators and supporters on this massive project who took years to pull off.
Special thanks to @comedebouchony , David Bergot / @alapointe ,Sam Berdah / @thewall_studio , @nicoskli , Adamou Banoufe, Patience Dabany et Mathis Mabaka, @jeantouss , Vincent Tuset-Anrès et Prune Allain-Bonsergent & @prune_ab (@fotokino ), @bonnefooi_ & @antalheitlager (@rushhourmusic ) and @alaniofficial for giving a precious hand.
We’re very conscious of the sensitivity of the material here. We hesitated for years before comitting to the project. If some people are wondering why on earth would a French label get involved with reissuing those records, the simple and sincere answer we have is the following:
Because this music is so incredibly good. A simple yet deep statement: such a great artistic work does not come from anywhere, anyhow.
And because the story of Gabon has a strong relationship with France, for better or for worse. Their story is also our story.
It is our hope the liner notes, published in both French and English, and written by a Gabonese Scholar called Dr. Omer Arsène Ivora Mouangoye, will help the world understand the extraordinary story of the Animation Groups and Gabonese society during the 1980’s. - Secousse
