September 08, 2006 @ 10:38 am

African Bash Parties With Purpose

by: Abena Agyeman-Fisher

Isaac Sserunjogi, both host and founder, said that besides getting Africans to loosen up a bit (“From the time we get here [America], it is work, work, work and no fun.”), he also threw the event because he wants “Tag N.Y. (the Abantu group) to pull Africa into the mainstream.” right Hot 97’s own DJ Megatron announced the headliner for the night, Afro-Ragga sensation Ragga Dee, who hails from Uganda and deftly melds Luganda and English together with an audible reggae-dancehall finish. Performing onstage, Dee, citing Buju Banton and Chaka Demus and Pliers as part of his inspiration, entertained both event attendees and unsuspecting walk-ins with international smashes such as “Digga Da” and “Mbawe.” Elizabeth Ngonzi, president of the event-planning firm Amazing Taste, who acted as a coordinator and manager for the function, adds, “We wanted to give an option to 'new Africans,' younger Africans who are caught in the middle because they do want to hear the African music that their parents appreciate but are also deeply rooted in house, hip hop, and other music. They also want to be able to congregate in a setting that is worth their money—not a hole in the wall.” With this intent, a diverse pallet of African and African diasporic musical sensibilities such as lingala [Congolese music], reggae, and R&B were played by DJs from Guinea (DJ Beto), Uganda (DJs Jack Lumpapa and Mukibi), and America (Hot 97’s Don Demarco). Regarding some of the proceeds going to the children of Uganda, Dee says, “People don’t realize what has happened there. It’s like when you see how people have suffered with [Hurricane] Katrina, when your life is starting from where you are, that’s the type of life they are living. This [event] is how you do it [contribute].” The Abantu group plans to expand the event so that it equally serves both business and pleasure. Ngozi adds, “We are planning to make this event quarterly; dancing is nice, but ultimately we want to help create networks and bring people together.” Look to Thanksgiving weekend to continue the extravaganza. Have a news tip? Email us.

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