On Friday, Afropunk London announced that it would replace MIA in its headlining slot, after a month of public outcry over her statements about Black Lives Matter. Today, the festival devoted to amplifying the creativity of black musicians has announced its new headliner, Grace Jones.
Jones, of course, is a creative innovator, with an over 30-year recording career that most recently culminated in 2008’s Hurricane. She was a surprise addition to the London leg of the festival, which takes place September 24 at Alexandra Palace, though she also headlined Afropunk Brooklyn in 2015. During that performance, Jones performed 1985’s “Slave to the Rhythm” nearly naked but for artful body paint and a hula hoop:
Afropunk London initially defended its choice to book MIA as its headliner, releasing a statement in support of Black Lives Matter and the current plight of refugees across Europe, while acknowledging the debate sparked by MIA’s comments. On Friday, the festival announced it had changed its mind.
Grace Jones joins a lineup that includes Laura Mvula, SZA, The Noisettes, Kwabs, Lady Leshurr, NTS Radio and more. Information is available here.
Image via Getty
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