Every Thursday night for the past seven years, Afro Funke’ has transformed L.A.’s Zanzibar into an African oasis, overflowing with pulsating beats and positive vibes, and bringing Angelenos from all walks of life together for the sole purpose of enjoying great music.  Next month will be no different, except that attendees will be united by an additional cause: raising money for Kenyan kids in need.

Afro Funke’ is partnering with March Forth Kenya Kids to produce a special edition of the uber-popular weekly event that will benefit music, education and art programs for disadvantaged children in Kenya.  Performing at the fundraiser will be Reggae legend Pato Banton, whose live shows have been described as spiritual and even life-changing.  The son of a Jamaican DJ, the Birmingham-born toaster has mesmerized audiences for decades with his free-flowing, interactive and intensely positive performances.  In addition to his status as a musical legend, Banton is also known for his passion for promoting positive change — late last year, he accepted the BBC’s Lifetime Achievement award for his philanthropic work.

Banton probably seemed like the perfect choice to Afro Funke’s organizers, star Reggae performer and Gana native Rocky Dawuni and his wife, producer/photographer Cary Sullivan.  The couple co-founded Afro Funke in 2003, with the hope of realizing their vision of an African music and cultural hub in the heart of L.A.  They teamed up with KCRW’s DJ Jeremy Sole and resident beatmaster DJ Glenn Red to create the monthly dance party at Zanzibar, which soon became a weekly event due to its immense popularity.

Afro Funke’s fundraiser for March Forth Kenya Kids will take place Thursday, Feb. 11 at Zanzibar, and is 21+.

Photo taken by Cary Sullivan