Alabigram

Behind the photo: Keith Haring, Grace Jones, Fela Kuti and Jean-Michel Basquiat at Mr. Chow in New York City, photographed by Andy Warhol (1986). That year was an interesting one for all of them. Fela had just been released from prison in Nigeria earlier that year after an unfair trial that led him to serve 18 months. Following his release, he went on a tour of charity events with Amnesty International, who helped him secure his freedom. This tour brought him on his first U.S. tour where he performed at the Giants Stadium in New York. He went on to have a completely sold out tour in the States.

Basquiat, who was only 25 years old, was at the height of his international fame at the time. His art was exhibited around the world and sold for tens of thousands of dollars to buyers. Yet, it wasn’t a completely perfect period because simultaneously his struggles with addiction started intensifying too before his untimely death would follow just two years later. Haring came at a turning point in his career as he opened his Pop Shop where he began selling t-shirts, toys, posters and other items that showcased his art. By doing so he made his art more accessible for a wider audience at more affordable price points. The Jamaican music icon Grace Jones was gearing up to release her eighth studio album, Inside Story, later that year. While maintaining her avant-garde persona, this record saw Jones explore more accessible, commercial sounds as she had her first foray in production.

More than just a dinner, these photos capture a moment in time where future pioneers in the worlds of music, visual art and activism came together in pivotal moments in their careers. 🇳🇬🇯🇲🇵🇷🇭🇹🇺🇸🪄

Blaqbonez, born Emeka Akumefule, is one of Nigeria’s most promising artists on the scene today. The title doesn’t come without its accolades. At the early age of 16, Blaqbonez began his artistic career as a battle rapper, winning 1st place out of 3000 rappers at Terry tha Rapman’s Zombie competition and earning him a spot on the Terry’s 2012 World Domination Mixtape alongside superstars like Olamide.

Recently, he was the only African rapper to feature at BET’s 50 years of hip hop event and was highlighted on Rolling Stone’s 50 innovators shaping the face of hip hop List (2023). He’s also appears on their best songs of the year list - S*x over love (2021), Back in Uni (2022), ACL (2025)

He has proclaimed himself the "Best Rapper in Africa".

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WHERE"S THE BAR
DESPACITO
MARY MARY

Brandy has received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. A well-deserved recognition for a career that has shaped generations.

A true icon! ⭐♥️