Gambia’s Open Mic Festival clocks 10

Initiated in November 2007 by promoters Black Lynx, the event which started as monthly hood-to-hood show is known for bringing together Gambian artists based in the country and those living abroad. It also provides a platform for lesser-known talents.

The theme for this year is, ‘Celebrating Unity in Diversity; One Nation, One Gambia, One Destiny’. Artists expected to perform are O-Boy and Gambian Child, Big Faa, ENC, Gee, Royal Messenger, Sophia, Binzy, Miss Jibizz, Killa Ace, ST, Bai Babu, T Smallz, Bro K, Nobles, Alieu Badara and Baddibunka. Two bands, Holy Family and Humanity Starz, will back the performers.

One of the event's organisers Abdoukarim Wagan Faye spoke about the festival's impact. “I remember when we had the idea," he said. "Then there were times when practically there was no platform for Gambian music, be it on the radios, television or even shows where they could perform. So when the idea came to us we were like wow, this is something that we wanted to do because we have always being fans of music and Gambian music for that matter. So as Black Lynx we sat and brainstormed and decided that this might be something for us to do."

It was not popular at the time but today it is one of the most popular music events in the country.

Waagan added that he wanted to be able to listen to Gambian music on a big platform: "When I watched or listened to music videos or anything music related from other African countries, I was like I wish this could be me listening to music from my own country. That was one of the major inspirations. Besides that, [we were inspired by] our genuine love for music and the Gambia in particular."

Open Mic Festival tickets are available at select Atlas Petrol Stations for D200 ($4).