LONDON’S Southbank on Saturday plays host to a one-off, all-night party of thumping African tunes hosted by BBC 1Xtra’s DJ Edu.

With the genre more popular than ever in the UK, following Nigerian artist D’Banj’s invasion of the UK Top 10 with his smash hit ‘Oliver Twist’ (video below), the show is set to cause a stir.

Organisers of the event have touted the show – entitled The Ultimate Afrobeats Utopia - as “a chance to experience the Afrobeats scene via some of its leaders”.

Speaking of Afrobeats leaders, my man Edu is definitely up there together with the likes of award-winning DJ Neptizzle and Afro House specialist Sef Kombo.  All three will play sets on Saturday night.

On play will be some of the hottest in Naija Pop, Azonto Rhythms, Kuduro, Kwaito and Kizomba plus a special appearance from Nigeria’s own superstar- Ice Prince. 

Edu recently shared with me a copy of his latest critically-acclaimed mixtape entitled DJ Edu presents T.I.A This Is Afrobeats.

The record features the likes of Victoria Kimani’s brand new smash Ayaya, alongside certified heavyweights of the genre like P-Square, 2Face Idibia, Naeto C, and 9ice.

We’ll be giving you our verdict via a comprehensive record review shortly. For now, be sure to visit Southbank this weekend!

Saturday 21 July 2012, 9pm (Doors open 8:30pm)

The Clore Ballroom of the Royal Festival Hall

Tickets: £10

www.southbankcentre.co.uk / 0844 847 9910

Words by @makiwahenry