Africa Unite: Party at Yugong Yishan on Saturday

Get down to Yugong Yishan this Saturday for Africa Day. You won’t want to miss the live music from the “energetic and synergistic 15-piece band, Afrokoko Roots, Afro Beat, Reggae Ensemble,” guaranteed to send you into a dancing frenzy. The fusion group consists of members from all over the world – Africa, Europe, Australia, America, Brazil, the Caribbean and China – each bringing their own style and flair to the music. If you're looking for an alternative to the usual Saturday night, Afrokoko will be sure to shake it up! They're backed by DJs from Ultimate Productions and other performers. Ahead of the event, we spoke to Sunny Dee from Afrokoko Roots - this is what he had to say.

How long have you been playing music and was it always your dream? If you hadn't found music, what would you be doing?
I was born in a musical family - everyone in my family is musical. My mother said to me that I've been playing drums since I was in her womb. Music is my life, my food and my wife for now.

What was the first music you ever remember hearing?
My parents' music.

Describe what we can expect to experience at your event this weekend.
I'm unpredictable, full of surprises. I always flow with God's direction. All I have to say is come with expectation, you'll not be disappointed.

Why did you establish yourselves in Beijing? Do you plan to travel across China/overseas with your band?
I wasn't planning to stay this long in China, but when I came I saw there weren't tooo many African things going on here, so I decided to stay and build up Afircan culture, music and everything that revolves around the African continent. The plan for Afrokoko Roots is beyond anyone's expectation - it's a band that is ordained by God. We'll be recording our songs and traveling around China and beyond.

Africa Day kicks off at 9pm at Yugong Yishan. RMB 50.