by Ellen Knuti

JULY 1, 2007 - Séun Kuti and Egypt 80 – his father Fela’s fabled afrobeat band – wowed an exuberant sold-out crowd as they made their New York City debut at SOB’s on the evening of July 1st.

Unsure what to expect, weathered fans and younger listeners alike gathered at the 300-person venue. The anticipation grew almost palpable as sound technicians adjusted microphones, arranged drums, and prepared for the twenty musicians and dancers who would soon occupy the stage. 

Quite simply, Séun did not disappoint. What a performer!  Singer, sax player, charismatic and bright, not to mention a joyful, quirky dancer - this guy has it all. A fan was overheard saying “A star is born” to no one but himself as Séun performied music from both his father’s repertoire and his own.

As the first installment of photographs chronicling exceptional performances of the summer 2007 concert season, Banning Eyre’s pictures tell the story.  View Slideshow.

Check back soon for more photographs of concerts taking place all over the globe.