AfroSzn heats up Dubwise Café

At the recent staging of AfroSzn, which took place at Dubwise Café, it was evident that the event continues to carve out a unique space in Kingston’s nightlife scene. AfroSzn’s fourth staging transformed Dubwise Café into a vibrant celebration of African rhythms and culture, featuring a captivating performance by the Djembe-Kon Cultural Performing Arts Group and a guest appearance from the Dancehall Family Tree (DFT).

Models Leonie Campbell (left) and Roginea Dixon bring their own Afro-inspired style to AfroSzn.

What began as a passion project between DJs searching for something different has evolved into a growing community united by a shared appreciation for African music genres such as Amapiano, GQOM, 3Step, Lekompo, Afro House, and Afro Tech. “The inspiration behind AfroSzn was the music. It all started with the music,” DJ Denvo, one of the organisers told the Jamaica Observer. “As DJs, we reached a point where we wanted to play something different, not just the regular music you hear every day on the radio or at events.

Marketer Joel Nomdarkham on the scene.

We were experiencing what you could call DJ burnout, and during that time we discovered Amapiano, 3Step, GQOM, and other sounds coming out of South Africa. It felt different. It felt spiritual. It was music we connected with.” According to DJ Powa, another member of the organising team, introducing new elements at each event has become an important part of the AfroSzn formula. “For every staging we try to create a special item that excites our audience,” he said. “In the past, we’ve incorporated live drum pads, had drummers performing throughout the night, and even created an Afro House remix of the popular WYFL rhythms. This time we featured live drummers and dancers from the Djembe-Kon Cultural Performing Arts Group.” DJ Denvo said AfroSzn has evolved since its initial staging.

Fashion designer Davene Jones checks out AfroSzn.

“Since the first staging, AfroSzn has grown beyond just being a space where we play Afro music, and we’ve seen more people become familiar with the different genres and sounds that we play. The events have also evolved in how we present the music and the overall experience. We are becoming more intentional about incorporating different elements of African and Jamaican culture, while still keeping the music at the centre. Each staging gives us an opportunity to introduce something new while maintaining what people have come to know AfroSzn for,” he reasoned. Asked what patrons can expect when they attend AfroSzn, he said: “Patrons can expect excellent music, pure Afro energy, and an experience that takes them on a journey through different sounds from the African continent. The music is carefully curated from beginning to end, so it’s not just about playing a collection of songs. We want people to discover new music, connect with the sounds, and, most importantly, have a good time. The people who come are genuinely there for the music and the experience, creating a strong sense of community.” The next staging of AfroSzn is scheduled for November 26 at Dubwise Café.