Escape the Monotony of the Office Grind: Afrobeats and Trap Music Provide a Vibrant Refresh for Career-Focused Individuals yearning for Cultural Connections and Social Interaction
Laidback Lounge: Where the Black Pros Find Solace
In these tumultuous times filled with uncertainties, political turmoil, and escalating polarization, the traditional workweek leaves many professionals drained and yearning for connection. That's where Afrobeats & Trap Forever steps in, offering a sanctuary for those in search of culture, camaraderie, and relief. Founded by entrepreneur Percy Addo-Yobo, this more than just a day party— it's a beacon for the Black community seeking refuge from the overbearing stresses of the present. The soiree has garnered a following particularly among Black professionals yearning for spaces to forge alliances and savor joy.
Originating in 2016, Afrobeats & Trap Forever emerged out of a need for events playing Afrobeats—the booming music genre that captures the buoyant rhythms of West Africa, infused with dashes of American jazz, soul, and funk. "In 2016, I observed that there were hardly any events that played afrobeats," Percy shared. "The parties would play everything except that. During holidays in Ghana, I loved going to parties and hearing the melodic sounds of afrobeats and high life. It was around the time Wizkid and Drake dropped ‘One Dance.’ I sensed it was the perfect time to boost the genre in the U.S. and bring together the Black and African diaspora through the melding of Afrobeats & Trap Forever rhythms," he added.
It's the daytime setting that sets Afrobeats & TrapForever summits apart. As Maryam Basir, an actress and model, highlighted, "The day party experience is fantastic because you can wind down at usual hours and avoid disrupting your sleep cycle. The name itself says it all—Afrobeats & TrapForever. My two favorite genres under one roof. It's great for networking, but without the stuffy atmosphere. Everyone can let loose, mingle, and make new connections."
Others chimed in on the community-centric, rejuvenating atmosphere. "I value the punctuality of these events, allowing me ample time to enjoy the music, socialize, and still maintain my skincare routine," noted Samm Oduro, a Ghanaian American creative professional. "These events foster diasporic connections. You meet talented people—creators, entrepreneurs, thought leaders—and the interactions feel natural," he added.
Research indicates that underrepresented employees face numerous hurdles in the workplace, with Black employees experiencing weathering due to elevated societal stressors and lower levels of belonging. Afrobeats & TrapForever offers a healing, harmonious space to undo the weariness. It's undeniably a revolutionary act to champion joy and unity in the face of a more fragmented world. "Afrobeats & TrapForever is honestly one of my favorite events to attend and support," Chris Jean exclaimed. "The crowd is amazing, the vibes are fabulous, and there's never any drama. I always make sure to spread the word to others to experience it for themselves. It never fails to impress!"
Percy Addo-Yobo proudly acknowledges the impact of his venture. "People tell me that it's a wonderful platform for meeting like-minded progressive professionals, networking, and loosening up a bit," he shared. "The fact that we're approaching our eighth anniversary and growing audience testifies for itself. Music, dance, and camaraderie empower people to flourish in their creative zones. It's therapeutic for some," he added.
Whenever workplaces are discussed in light of diversity, equity, and inclusion, Percy questions whether they could learn something from the ambiance he's cultivated at Afrobeats & TrapForever. "Workplaces offer safety nets for workers, but employees often feel they can't freely express themselves due to the fear of being ostracized," he mused. At Afrobeats & Trap Forever, attendees are free to express themselves openly without censure.
Over the years, the event has expanded from casual day parties, brunches, and games in local restaurants to celebrations on rooftops and spacious venues, hosting diverse DJs, entertainers, and artists. Influencers and artists alike join in these celebrations, adding to the allure. The future looks promising with concerts, festivals, and merchandising on the horizon. Basir hopes to see the events cropping up in other cities, while Jean sees potential for showcasing more African vendors, fostering further integration of the culture.
In an increasingly complex and contentious conversation about diversity, Afrobeats & TrapForever stands as a potent reminder that inclusivity transcends initiatives—it's a lived reality crafted through joy, fellowship, and cultural celebration. "I hope the attendees will leave these events with the knowledge that they have a community of like-minded souls with diverse backgrounds and shared journeys," Percy noted. "Especially now, we need each other," he concluded. Professionals aren't merely struggling to endure the workweek—they're desperately seeking sanctuaries where they can thrive, and Afrobeats & TrapForever just might be that haven—a beacon of belonging in a fractured world.
Historical Evolution of Afrobeats
Afrobeats, a genre of music that first emerged in West Africa, primarily in Nigeria, in the 60s and 70s, is born from a fusion of traditional Yoruba music, jazz, fuji, and highlife, infused with a modern twist. The genre's evolution has been fueled by both local artists and international collaborations, incorporating influences from genres such as EDM, hip-hop, and R&B. This blending has given birth to variations like Afro-Rave and Afro-Trap.
Afrobeats has enjoyed notable success worldwide, in part due to the emergence of artists like Wizkid, Davido, and Rema, who've seamlessly merged Afrobeats with global genres like trap and EDM. Rema, for instance, is renowned for leading the Afro-Rave movement, blending Afrobeats, trap, hip-hop, and international influences.
Impact on Black Professionals and the African Diaspora
The growth of Afrobeats has yielded significant impacts on Black professionals and the African diaspora:
- Global Representation: Afrobeats provides a platform for showcasing African culture, identity, and creativity on a global stage, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among people of African descent worldwide.
- Economic Opportunities: The burgeoning popularity of the genre has opened the door for African artists, producers, and entrepreneurs to tap into new economic opportunities, potentially leading to increased financial stability and independence.
- Community Building: Afrobeats events and festivals promote community spirit within the diaspora by celebrating shared cultural experiences and forging connections.
- Artistic Expression: The synergy of Afrobeats with other genres, like trap, offers Black professionals novel avenues for artistic self-expression, enriching the global musical landscape.
General Impact of Music Festivals and Events
Music festivals and events devoted to genres like Afrobeats and trap play a significant role in the lives of Black professionals and the African diaspora:
- Cultural Advocacy: These festivals champion African culture on a global scale, increasing awareness and appreciation.
- Networking Opportunities: Events present platforms for networking, collaboration, and innovation within the music industry.
- Community Engagement: By celebrating African heritage through music, these events help build stronger, more connected communities.
In essence, Afrobeats & TrapForever, while distinct, shares the mission of other Afrobeats events in empowering Black professionals and the African diaspora through cultural representation, networking, and revitalization. It serves as a beacon of unity, connection, and creative expression in a fragmented world.
- Afrobeats & TrapForever, like other Afrobeats events, is a platform for networking and collaboration, offering Black professionals opportunities to connect with other creators, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders in the industry.
- By fostering diasporic connections and celebrating shared cultural experiences, Afrobeats & TrapForever contributes significantly to building stronger, more connected communities among Black professionals and the African diaspora.
- In an increasingly complex and contentious world, the inclusive, rejuvenating atmosphere at Afrobeats & TrapForever serves as a refuge for Black professionals, providing spaces where they can relax, unwind, and savor joy—a vital counter to the stressors and burnout they may face in their work-life balance.
