The organiser of Africa Oyé has said the festival "reminds us who we are as a nation" as it returns to Sefton Park this weekend after a two-year hiatus. For years, Africa Oyé has been a key part of Liverpool's cultural fabric, hosting world-renowned artists such as Julian Marley, Femi Kuti, and Youssou N'Dour.
Humble Beginnings
Despite its huge popularity, the festival started modestly. Founder Kenny Murray began with small gigs in Liverpool city centre. Over time, it grew into a festival held at venues including Birkenhead Park, Princes Park, and Concert Square, before settling at Sefton Park in 2002.
A Festival for Everyone
Artistic director Paul Duhaney, 57, told the ECHO: "I think a festival like Oyé is good for everybody. It reminds us who we are as a nation, and there's a lot of good things about this country that need to be celebrated. The festival is an African music festival, but everybody's welcome." He added: "We've never had any political or religious beliefs. For that weekend, everybody comes as one and it's all about enjoying the music."
Staying True to Origins
After taking over from Kenny in 2013, Paul said the festival has never lost sight of its roots: "The whole festival was born out of showcasing international and African music and artists from that diaspora. Because of Liverpool's historic links between Africa, the Caribbean, and the Americas, it made perfect sense for the festival to be here."
Music's Power to Educate
Paul has seen music's ability to educate first-hand: "I get people from the north end of Liverpool that have never heard African music in their life, and they come and they're blown away by it and they come back every year." He recalled a man who sailed from Haiti to see a band at Africa Oyé.
Accessible Pricing
As ticket prices rise elsewhere, Africa Oyé offers affordable options. Paul said: "We've offered £6 local residents tickets, £11 Liverpool City Region tickets, and our highest ticket price is now £19. Some people pay more to see one band, let alone a whole festival."
Overcoming Challenges
The festival's future looked uncertain recently. Paul explained: "We're just happy to be coming back after thinking we were going to go out of business. New rules and regulations made getting legislation for a festival impossible." This year, for the first time, tickets are required. He added: "Since we've been away, people have said we've been missed, and that people really love it and need it."
