‘Embrace the Sound, Culture, and Dance’ as Afro Nation 2024 Returns to Detroit

Afro Nation, the international festival, returns to Detroit this summer. Melody Freshhh from 105.9 KISS FM recently talked with the festival's event coordinators, Josh and Ladon, to get the inside scoop on what fans can expect on August 17-18, 2024. Afro Nation Detroit Last year, Detroit hosted the Afro Nation Festival, drawing almost 15,000 people over the weekend. Josh said, "It was amazing. We had Burna Boy and Davido headline, a Motown special, and the community truly embraced the sound, culture, food, and dance." Why Is Detroit The Only Stop in the US? When asked why Detroit is the exclusive U.S. stop for this year's Afro Nation festival, Josh said, "Detroit is such a special place. It's the home of techno, gospel, Motown, R&B, and Afrobeats. The city felt like a second home for us, and the community's connection to these genres made it the perfect choice." The lineup includes Lil Wayne, Rema, Asake, Shenseea, PartyNextDoor, and local favorite Cash Dow. You can also check out Amapiano's unique genre. "It's a mix of house and electronic music with African rhythms," Josh said. "It's called the Piano People stage, featuring the biggest names from South Africa like Uncle Waffles and Scorpion Kings." Afro Nation Detroit Ladon said, "The Amapiano stage draws a loyal crowd. They stay there from start to finish. Last year, people didn't move from the Amapiano stage for 6 or 7 hours because they were so captivated by the DJ acts." It's not all fun, though. Ladon said it's hard sometimes to run such a large event. "It's stressful. Managing time zones, chasing acts, and ensuring everything runs smoothly is no easy task, but it's worth it." Afro Nation was a game-changer for Detroit. It's an amazing festival and a beautiful look for our city. I'm proud of what you guys are doing and can't wait for this year's event. Click here to get your tickets! https://vimeo.com/954492484?share=copy Interview Transcription: Melody Freshhh: All right. It's 105.9 KISS FM, number one for old school in the D. I'm excited because Afro Nation is back this summer, and Detroit is the only U.S. stop. Welcome, Josh and Ladon! Josh: It was amazing last year. We had 15,000 people, Burna Boy, Davido, and a Motown special. The community embraced everything. Melody Freshhh: How did Detroit get to be the only U.S. stop? Josh: Detroit is special. It's the home of so many music genres. It felt like a second home. Melody Freshhh: Who's on the lineup this year? Josh: We've got Lil Wayne, Rema, Asake, Shenseea, PartyNextDoor, and local star Cash Dow. Ladon: And we have the Amapiano stage, featuring Uncle Waffles and Scorpion Kings. Melody Freshhh: What makes Amapiano special? Josh: It's a mix of house and electronic music with African rhythms. The Piano People stage will be strictly Amapiano. Ladon: The Amapiano crowd is loyal. They stay all day, captivated by the music. Melody Freshhh: Any tickets left? Josh: Tickets are flying. Get them at detroit.afronation.com and follow us on socials at AfroNation.us. Ladon: Don't wait last minute. Melody Freshhh: What's different this year? Josh: This year, it's all about the festival: bigger acts, a focus on the main event, and some road to Detroit activations. Melody Freshhh: What's next after Detroit? Josh: We're spreading Afro Nation across continents, with shows in Africa and our flagship in Portugal. Melody Freshhh: Thank you, Josh and Ladon. Get your tickets now, and don't miss Afro Nation 2024 in Detroit! [select-listicle listicle_id="145361" syndication_name="drake-8-artists-he-should-make-a-joint-album-with" description="yes"]