BHM x AB: B(l)ack to Our Roots
March is around the corner, and that means: Black History Month Belgium. AB is proud to collaborate with the multidisciplinary socio-cultural festival again to host some of the events for this 7th edition.
This year’s theme, B(l)ack to Our Roots, is an invitation to explore heritage, identity, and the wisdom passed down through generations. It also marks a return to the festival’s foundational mission: celebrating Black communities’ diversity, creativity, and resilience.
In this light we look forward to Rumba Divas on 16 March, a concept by Monique Mbeka Phoba. Because it doesn’t get more Cultural Heritage than this UNESCO-recognized music genre. Under the artistic direction of outstanding bass and contrabass player Philip Kanza, this concert celebrates the rich legacy of the great female voices of Congolese Rumba. Songs by legendary artists Jolie Detta, Mbilia Bel and Abeti to name a few will pass the revue.
But before this celebratory evening of heritage, let’s talk about black artists today on 14 March. Project and Artist Manager Selene Alexa (Yseult, Black Mamba, Gayance, Marta Da’ro), will tap into her expertise in artist development to provide key industry insights and strategies for emerging Black artists in Belgium. Followed by an engaging panel discussion on the topic of creating a meaningful public presence as a Black artist in the Belgian music industry.
We close off our activities on 21 March with Jabanè Sessions 6. With an all women of color casting curated by Bona Léa. The Brussels native DJ treats us to a club night (AB at Night) and a songwriting workshop by STACE.
BHM x AB 2025
