The curtains may have closed on this year’s Felabration, but one name still echoes through the New Afrika Shrine: Kech. Among a lineup of remarkable talents, Kech’s performance left a profound impact, solidifying his place as a rising star in the Afrobeats scene. With his new hit song “Butterfly,” he captured the crowd’s attention, bringing a unique energy that distinguished him from other performers. His passionate delivery and signature smooth vocals were the highlight of an already spectacular night.
Lagos was alive with music, dance, and electrifying energy as Felabration 2024 took center stage, celebrating the legacy of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. Held at the iconic New Afrika Shrine, the festival spanned from October 14 to October 20, with each day delivering performances that paid homage to the profound influence of Fela on the global music scene. Among the many stars who graced the stage, one artist’s performance stood out from the crowd and left an indelible mark on all who attended.
The theme for this year’s celebration, “Look and Laugh,” captured the spirit of resilience and joy, and the crowd was not disappointed. Notable acts like Skales, May D, and Durella ignited the audience, delivering spirited sets that had fans swaying to familiar tunes. However, it was Kech, a Nigerian Afrobeats artist signed to SH Music and Sound Haven Inc. Label, who truly stole the spotlight. His performance was not only a showcase of vocal prowess but a masterclass in showmanship.
Kech, renowned for his energetic stage presence, brought the crowd to their feet from the moment he stepped on stage. Known for his breakout hit “Wait,” which became a campus anthem in 2018, Kech has steadily risen in the music industry, winning fans over with singles like “Uju” and “Desire.” At Felabration 2024, he brought his signature energy to the forefront, delivering a performance that blended soulful rhythms with an undeniable stage charisma.
The crowd roared with approval as Kech launched into “Butterfly,” his latest single, which showcased his creative evolution and solidified his place as a force in Afrobeats. His ability to engage the audience, moving seamlessly from one song to the next, kept the energy levels high. Each note was delivered with passion, a testament to his dedication to the craft and his place in the genre that Fela pioneered.
Amidst the vibrant performances, some attendees shared their excitement with Newsmen. Yomi Talabi, who attended the event with his brothers, couldn’t hide his enthusiasm: “The performances have been wonderful; we have been dancing since we got here. Kech’s performance was the highlight for us, and I’m looking forward to seeing more from him in the future.”
Another fan, Bunmi Ishola, noted how events like Felabration are crucial in promoting Afrobeats and boosting tourism: “This festival is more than just music; it’s about cultural preservation and international exposure. Kech’s performance was a reminder of how far Afrobeats has come and the future it holds.”
Felebration remains a festival that not only celebrates Fela’s legacy but also shines a spotlight on the next generation of Afrobeat artists who are keeping the flame alive. In a week that saw many memorable acts, Kech’s standout performance was a reminder that the future of Afrobeat is in capable and passionate hands.
As the festival came to a close, the legacy of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti remained secure, his music still echoing in the hearts of many. And for one night, Kech proved that he was not just an emerging star but a worthy torchbearer of a genre that continues to inspire and uplift. His performance at Felabration 2024 will be remembered as one of those defining moments when an artist steps into the spotlight and makes it his own.
With such a remarkable showing, the anticipation is high for what Kech will bring to the stage next, as he continues to contribute to the global appeal and evolution of Afrobeats, ensuring that its rich legacy lives on for generations to come.
