Africa Rising: Recap

Friday night was the night for THISDAY's Africa Rising - a music and fashion festival celebrating the positive aspects of African society. The festival, normally held only in Africa, made its US debut this year at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. There were some logistical issues that I think should have been improved, especially since we were at The Kennedy Center! The show didn't start until almost an hour late, and there was too much idle time in between acts. Furthermore, the sound system started off a little rocky.

Paula Zahn, and some other dude, were the hosts of the festival. Paula did a good job, but the other dude was way too awkward. I think he is a news anchor for one of the DC News Stations, but he needs to not do shows that don't include teleprompters.

The fashion shows were really nice. I really enjoyed the collection by Nigerian Designer MoMo. Her flowy dresses and beautiful prints were very tasteful, and I could definitely see her designing for Michelle Obama. Alek Wek, and Liya Kebede were runway models for the show, as well as the Black model from Project Runway Season 3. She was the main model for Laura Bennett.

I won't even go into how hot the musical performances were. Just imagine John Legend and Jay- Z live, in a very intimate setting. Bananas!


I get there, and I am worried about the dress code, because the Kennedy Center, known for fine arts performances, has the potential of requiring an "after five" attire, or at least a jacket for men. Although I was relieved that there was no specific dress code, in some ways I wish that I could have made one for that night! Here are a couple observations from that night..



All white linen suit... with Nike Air Force One's?? AND orange and red designs on the jacket?


Sunglasses...inside... of the Kennedy Center... even Jay-Z left the shades backstage.


If you are going to wear a suit, please take the time to get it tailored to your body shape. The "boxed look" is over...


I know Fergie and Lil Wayne both mention "lovely lady lumps" in their songs.. but seriously, please don't show too much of these...


OK, so anyways, I was truly entertained by the acts of the show. While a few people were defiant and took flash photography, I was not one of them, so all I have are the memories in my head.