sandee The British Broadcasting Corporation Radio 1Xtra has launched Africa 360 – a week of specially curated content celebrating African music and culture.
The content which has had and will have trending african superstars and artistes namely Omah Lay, Tiwa Savage, Jae5, Aya Nakamura, Diamond Platnumz, Focalistic, ElGrandeToto and Sha sha.
In a statement published by the corporation, Africa 360 would guarantee a destination for good vibes, fun and high energy with exclusive live performances, special interviews, artist takeovers and brand new mixes.
During the 1Xtra Breakfast with Nadia Jae on Friday 19, the station introduced its Africa 360 playlist which will run through to 1Xtra Weekend Breakfast with Remi Burgz. 100% of the music played on 1Xtra which will be from the continent of Africa covering North, South, East, West and Central and will include features from some of the hottest artists from these regions.
This weekend starting from today 25th promises to produce mad vibes from african DJs on the deck such as Dj maphorisa ,Supa D,Dj Aires , Mr Silk. Sif Kombo and many more.
Head of 1Xtra, Faron McKenzie said,“As a network 1Xtra has always been at the forefront of championing the African music scene and it’s important we continue to do so, not only by supporting current artists but by investing in the next generation of African artists. 1Xtra’s ‘Africa 360 with…’ BBC Sounds series will authentically showcase the varied sounds from the continent spearheaded by icons of that region, whilst our ‘Amapiano to AfroHouse’ music mixes will become a destination to hear the latest sounds from the pioneers and champions of this new and exciting genre.”
The celebrations which will continue on-air championing the sound started on Sunday 21 March with DJ Edu hosting a special Old Skool show (11am-1pm) looking back at some of the biggest moments in African music and reminiscing on old school tunes. Meanwhile, Richie Brave also hosted a 1Xtra Talks Africa special (9-10pm) looking at some of the social movements across the continent, in places like Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Uganda, Eritrea and Ethiopia, speaking to young people who are active in these movements.
Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter Wizkid also presented and listeners had a musical journey of discovery across the continent.
The mix will be updated with a new episode every Monday on BBC Sounds which begun this past monday 22 March and will also be broadcast on 1Xtra.
To round off the week of festivities, on Thursday 25 March there will be an epic Live Lounge performance from Nigerian music star Davido. This will debut during Yasmin Evans and Ace’s show (11am-3pm) and will be available to watch on 1Xtra’s YouTube Channel and BBC iPlayer.
