WORDS: OYIZA ADABA

PHOTOS: AFRICA-RELATED

NEW YORK, NY

Le Poisson Rouge in New York City’s West Village was host to legendary drummer Tony Allen on August 1st 2018.

Born Tony Oladipo Allen in 1940 in Lagos, this Paris-based Nigerian drummer, composer and songwriter extraordinaire is credited for originating and putting the ‘beat’ in the 'Afrobeat' genre of music, created by the late Fela Anikulakpo-Kuti. Over the years he has continued to release albums and tour the world with his music, earning the title 'Master Drummer of All Times'.

On this live stage, musicianship was in full harmony making room for each member of the 5-man band to shine, while collectively thrilling the 400-strong standing-room only audience to soulful and vibrant blends of tracks like Politely, Wolf Eat Wolf, Drum Suite, Cool Cats etc.

Backstage, Allen's spirit and the consistency of his 5-decade career is felt in his calmness, smile, warm handshakes, hugs, quick exchange of stories with the sizable line of fans and friends that waited to greet him.

For more info, visit https://www.facebook.com/tonyallenafrobeat/

OYIZA ADABA IS A JOURNALIST & PRODUCER @AFRICARELATED

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