Since its inception, Africa Express has proved to be a far-sighted project inspired by the will to unite and allow musicians from Africa and Europe to collaborate.

Their upcoming 5-hour festival, on stage at The Big Top in Leytonstone on Friday, will bring forward that mission thanks to an all-star and varied line-up, including rock, electro and pop stars (from Rokia Traoré to Damon Albarn), as well as more up-and-coming artists, like Moonchild Sanelly, Onipa and Muzi.

More than a dozen acts will come together to celebrate Walthamstow and pay their rhythmic tribute to the London Borough of Culture 2019, but they also come together to prove (if proof was needed) how many similarities, connections and overlapping qualities there are between the two continents.

To introduce you to and to warm you up for the Africa Express musical circus, we have put together a video playlist reflecting what you will enjoy on Friday afternoon under the Big Top tent.

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Watch the full playlist:

or listen to it: