Africa Underground is back with an evening of delights at the National Museum of African Art, Friday, September 30, from 7 to 11 p.m. Coming on the heels of a hugely successful second installment of African Underground in May, this edition will also see the museum’s doors held open after hours, giving revelers the chance to enjoy refreshments, dance, and experience the museum’s exhibitions, ambiance and performances from around the continent.

The first and second Africa Undergrounds sold out in days, and this installment will include several exciting new elements including entertainment by the bands ‘Sahel’ and ‘Eme & Heteru’, fashions by world renowned designer Korto Momolou, with ‘Afrobeat’ face painting by LUNCHBOX THEORY and music spun by DJ Underdog throughout the night.

The Sahel, a stretch of land between African desert and rainforest, is an ancient symbol of trade and travel where people from various continents have throughout time exchanged goods, ideas and cultures. Like the Sahel much of the worlds contemporary dance music is a product of distinct African roots with middle eastern and European influences; blended colors of culture on the canvas of African rhythms. SAHEL are a band of musicians from diverse backgrounds who believe in honoring multicultural evolution by performing currently relevant music like Zouk, Mbalax, Saba Reggae and Salsa. SAHEL is inspired by tradition and dedication to the progress of music that moves the world.

Eme & Heteru are a band lead by singer/songwriter, Eme Awa who have been part of the Washington, D.C. live music scene for the past ten years. They combine the rich styles, melodies and rhythms from East, South and West Africa in addition to Reggae to create their unique sound, a combination of Afrobeat and reggae music Eme Awa calls “AfroRoots Music.” He has had four Wammie nominations and will also play music from Central Nigeria to compliment the museum’s exhibition Central Nigeria Unmasked.”
Tickets $25