Apollo Music Café: Africa Now! – Nkumu Katalay and DJ YB

Born in the capital city Kinshasa of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nkumu Katalay blends the music of his homeland with contemporary sounds from the Americas to create a rhythmic Afrobeat unlike any other. His musical concept blends the Congolese “Mbonda” or “Ngoma” (drum) with dance, movements, folklore, drumming, devotions, and sound to tap into the dialectic space of a collective humanity.

He is joined by Nigerian producer and curator DJ YB (a.k.a. “The General of Afrobeats”) in the Apollo’s Music Café for an energetic performance that will have audiences on their feet and dancing from start to finish. For 11 years, the Apollo Music Café has served as a launching pad for numerous artists, showcasing their unique artistry in an intimate nightclub setting that serves as a timely throwback to the Renaissance.

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Important Update:

Out of an abundance of caution for our guests, performers, and audience during the current COVID-19 surge, there will be no concessions available at this event and all attendees must wear masks at all times while inside the theater.

Check out our playlist to preview some of Nkumu Katalay’s music:

Africa Now Festival

Music and entertainment from the continent continues to drive trends across all facets of culture around the globe. The Apollo’s Africa Now! Festival returns for its eighth year to celebrate the best cultural innovators from the African Diaspora.

For the safety of our audiences and staff, all ticketholders and attendees of this event must provide proof of vaccination in order to enter the theater. In addition, all attendees are required to wear face coverings while inside the theater. Click here for more information about our COVID safety policies.