Esther Arité Monday, popularly known as Arité, captivated audiences at the British Council in Ikoyi, Lagos, with a dynamic performance that seamlessly blended jazz, Afrobeats, soul, R&B, and other genres. The event, titled Blend of Genres, offered music enthusiasts hours of melodious entertainment, featuring dance and performances by other artists, including celebrated jazz singer Yinka Davies.
A Night of Musical Fusion
The atmosphere at the British Council was electric as Arité took the stage, delivering an energetic set that showcased her versatility across multiple genres. The event aimed to bring together diverse musical tastes in a single show, offering something for every attendee. From soulful jazz rhythms to the upbeat vibes of Afrobeats, the performance was a testament to Arité's artistic range.
Arité's Reflections
Speaking with The Guardian, Arité expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming turnout. “I am overwhelmed and grateful. I wasn’t expecting this turnout,” she said. “The idea behind the show is to bring different kinds and tastes of music together. We blended jazz with Afro, soul, and reggae for everyone’s pleasure.”
When asked about the effect of experiencing multiple genres in one night, she explained: “Some people just love jazz, others love soul, and others love highlife. But listening to all these genres in one setting can help people start enjoying other styles and add them to their taste. I’m sorry if it gets distorted, but it will only help them explore.”
Life After the Guinness World Record Attempt
Reflecting on her life after attempting a Guinness World Record, Arité noted: “Life has been great. I have secured some gigs because of the Guinness World Record attempt. I can’t complain. I will make another attempt, but I need to recover financially and in other aspects.”
She offered advice to young talents facing financial constraints: “A lot of superstars were not discovered in the studio; their talent exposed them to the world. Keep recording with your phones and don’t give up.”
Yinka Davies Praises Arité
Yinka Davies, who also performed at the event, praised Arité as a “gold whose talent will be celebrated soon.” She remarked: “She performed beautifully. She came to a hidden place to perform, so it’s a matter of time. I advise her to continue her journey and not worry about anything else.”
Davies also encouraged young talents: “Don’t let anything distract or defray you from concentrating and doing your thing. Funding will come for young talents; we trust God.”
The event was a resounding success, leaving attendees with a richer appreciation for the blend of genres and a deeper admiration for Arité's artistry.
