The critically acclaimed Afropunk festival has unveiled another killer lineup for the two-day festival, set to take place on August 25th and 26th at Brooklyn’s Commodore Barry Park. This year’s headliners include the likes of Erykah Badu, Twin Shadow, Tyler, the Creator, Miguel and Janelle Monáe.
Initially, Afropunk was the title of the acclaimed documentary film by James Spooner, which chronicled the black experience in the predominantly white sub-culture of punk rock and hardcore. As the success of the film grew, Spooner created the festival as a way to celebrate black punk rock culture. Eventually, the Afropunk fest became a global phenomenon, with the festival traveling around the world to locals such as Johannesburg and Paris. While musically speaking the festival has outgrown its punk roots, there are still plenty of electric performers throughout both days.
Tyler, the Creator, is fresh off the release of his stellar Flower Boy album from last year, building upon the sound and vision of his earlier recordings to deliver another great collection of music. He has been touring throughout this year and is a mainstay on the festival circuit this summer.
Janelle Monáe is currently prepping for the release of a new album, Dirty Computer, which will be coming out towards the end of April. Monáe has already released two stunning singles/music videos, and the full-length album is undoubtedly going to be one of the most anticipated records of the year.
Twin Shadow has also been hard at work preparing a new record, with Caer set to drop at the end of April as well. Based on the initial singles that Twin Shadow has released, the record will continue his infectious blend of classic power pop with indie stylings.
UPDATE: 6/7
The festival has announced additional performers, with the legendary Kaytranada now slotted into a headlining spot. Additionally a special DJ-only stage has been added, featuring the likes of Theo Parrish, Just Blaze, Honey Dijon, and Josey Rebelle.
Photo credit: Mauricio Alvarado
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