CLIP OF THE DAY: Meu amado Brasil.

There are good days and today is one of them. Yup, I get to CLIP about something close to my heart: Brazil and the Back 2 Black project, now for the first time ever in London. Launched in Rio de Janeiro 2009, the annual Back2Black festival is one of the most cutting edge cultural events in Brazil attracting over 50,000 visitors so far and a pioneer in promoting global appreciation for black culture in Brazil. I was lucky enough to go to previous editions which took place at Leopoldina railway station close to hip downtown Rio de Janeiro - so aiming to recreate a similar setting, the London festival will be held at Old Billingsgate in the heart of East London, co-produced by the Barbican, with four different stages and an extensive offering of concerts, debates and exhibitions. So you are in the know,  the eclectic line-up will feature more than 30 Brazilian, UK and international artists, groups, thinkers and leaders, including host Gilberto Gil, performances by Macy Gray, Marcelo D2, Mart'nalia, Roots Manuva, Amadou & Miriam amongst others. This year Back2Black festival features a strong emphasis on UK African connections and communities including Afro-Caribbean artists and brings together a heady mix of different traditions and musical genres, including Samba, Jazz, Funk, R’n’B, Blues, Rock, Reggae, Dub and Hip Hop – all of which have been inspired by Africa. Thanks to CONNECT I have received my invitation for Sunday line up (I'm telling you its a good day). So if you are a member log in into your account to secure yours; or alternatively you can buy tickets online at the Barbican website. Here is a little scoop to help you get in the mood: 

Gilberto Gil - Aquele abraco 

Mart'nalia - Boto meu povo na rua

Marcelo D2 - Desabafo

Amadou & Miriam - Senegal Fast Food

Macy Gray - Sweet Baby

Because everything in life is better with music... See you there xx I.