Get ready for an unforgettable night of African music and culture as PBS pays tribute to the legendary kora maestro, Toumani Diabaté. This unique event, presented by ALWAYS LIVE, PBS 106.7FM and renowned curator Stani Goma, will take place in the front bar of the Croxton on 6th December 2024.
Tickets are available at the door - $35 for PBS Members, $45 for Future PBS Members (inc. booking fees)
8pm: DJ Kgomotso Sekhu
8.30pm: The Mande Spirit
9pm: DJ Kgomotso Sekhu
9.30pm: Ajak Kwai
10.30pm: DJ Kgomotso Sekhu
11pm: The Afrobiotics
Toumani Diabaté, a world-renowned Malian musician and master of the kora, has inspired countless artists with his extraordinary talent and dedication to preserving the rich musical heritage of West Africa. This special concert is an homage to his legacy, showcasing the beauty and power of African music through the voices and instruments of Naarm/Melbourne’s finest African musicians.
Joining them is Ajak Kwai, the South Sudanese singer and songwriter known for her powerful voice and messages of hope, peace, and unity. Her Afrobeat-infused sound has captivated audiences around Australia, blending traditional African rhythms with contemporary styles. Ajak is also the host of PBS program, Come Together, every Monday afternoon from 1pm-3pm.
Rounding out the lineup is The Afrobiotics, a high-energy Afrobeat band that fuses African rhythms with modern grooves, bringing a danceable energy to the stage. Their infectious beats and tight performances will get the crowd moving and ensure a night full of celebration.
The night will be stitched together by DJ sets from Kgomotso Sekhu. Born in Pretoria, Kgomotso is a multidisciplinary artist with a passion for filmmaking, African education, cultural exchange and community development.
This event is part of ALWAYS LIVE - a 17-day state-wide celebration of contemporary live music supported by the Victorian Government through Visit Victoria - and is proudly supported by PBS 106.7FM, Naarm/Melbourne’s community radio station dedicated to amplifying diverse voices and music.
PBS is proud to be teaming up with ALWAYS LIVE to help raise funds for their 2024 charity partner Support Act. This means that $1 from each ticket sold will be going directly to Support Act and the amazing work they do with music workers, artists and crew.
Don’t miss this extraordinary night of music, culture, and celebration as we honour one of Africa’s greatest musicians, Toumani Diabaté.
A Tribute to Toumani Diabaté: A Night of African Rhythms and Celebration
Friday 6th December 2024 in the front bar of The Croxton, Thornbury
Featuring The Afrobiotics, Ajak Kwai & her band and The Mande Spirit, plus DJ Kgomotso Sekhu
Presented by ALWAYS LIVE, PBS 106.7FM and Stani Goma
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander folk are welcome for free – please email for more info.
Accessibility info for The Croxton can be found here.
This event takes place on the land of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples and the extended clans of the Kulin Nation. We recognise and celebrate their connection to songlines and Country, ceremony and story, and pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past and present. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.
About ALWAYS LIVE:
ALWAYS LIVE is an annual celebration of live music across Victoria, bringing together local and international talent for performances in venues large and small.
About PBS 106.7FM:
PBS 106.7FM is a community radio station based in Melbourne, dedicated to promoting diverse music, arts, and culture from around the world.
About Stani Goma:
Stani Goma is a Melbourne-based curator, radio host, and cultural advocate who has been instrumental in bringing African music to Australian audiences. Stani hosts Flight 1067 to Africa on PBS each Sunday from 3pm - 5pm.