Author: Mazi Ifeanyi

A music Marketer from Indiana USA. ig @mazifeanyi

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DJ Smart has been particularly impressive this year, consistently releasing mixtapes while maintaining a strong presence in the party scene across Indianapolis, USA. Even more remarkable is the fact that the Ondo State–born DJ only began his journey in December 2019. His rapid rise to becoming one of Indiana’s most sought-after DJs within such a short time speaks to both his natural talent and relentless work ethic.

What sets DJ Smart apart is his keen ear for music. He has a distinct ability to identify and introduce songs to audiences before they become mainstream hits—an essential quality that defines truly influential DJs. This instinct not only elevates his sets but also contributes to the early spread of emerging tracks.

Describing this latest mix as “premium transitions and vibes from the best Afrobeats albums in 2020,” DJ Smart delivers on that promise. The mix offers a seamless journey through standout Afrobeats projects of the year, blending top-tier tracks into a smooth, immersive listening experience that effortlessly lifts the mood—almost putting listeners in “airplane mode.”

The timing of the release couldn’t be better. It’s a mix perfectly suited for celebrations, and one that is sure to soundtrack parties well into the new year and beyond.

 

 

 

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Bowyrude is a leading African Artist from Indianapolis, Indiana USA. Soon after receiving positive feedback from his freestyle titled “Aklito”, he decides to make a video for the song.

AKLITO might just be a freestyle but the melodies are taking us somewhere else. The Togolese artist is definitely setting himself up for a better 2021 after much of the world’s artists have been held back by the scourge of the pandemic. Watch Bowyrude’s new visuals below.

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Indianapolis has grown to be one of the top places to visit if you are looking to catch some huge African parties in the USA. This could be attributed to the fact that Africans have migrated to the city in their thousands in the last few years, maybe because of the lower cost of living , or just the mere fact that a lot of immigrants find it better to live in a city with a chill vibe, different from the rugged and fast paced nature of bigger cities. Whatever the case maybe, the city has definitely become a home away from home for millions of African immigrants especially those from the west and the eastern parts of Africa.

If you are planning to visit or move to Indianapolis soon, we have compiled a list of top spots to visit if you want to catch some African parties, food , and events.

  1. Club Kalakutah Restaurant $ Nightclub

Located on the west-side of Indianapolis, Club Kalakutah and kalakutah restaurant are pretty big names in the entertainment scene here in Indianapolis and they have been around for quite sometime . They can brag about the magnitude of events they have hosted in the past and number of A list artists they have partied at their venue . This list includes Tubaba, Falz, Teni, Rotimi, Reekado banks just to mention a few. Named After Fela’s Shrine, you can be rest assured Kalakutah always has something going on. The restaurant serves mainly Nigerian styled dishes but you may also find some foreign styled dishes in their menu. The restaurant is open 7 days a week.

Associated DJs

*DJ Delly Jay
*DJ Phlame
*DJ Drey
*DJ Ranye

Pros

-Huge parking space with free parking
-Huge Space with VIP sessions just in-case you wanted to stand out
-Safe and clean environment.

Cons

-Food is heavily Nigerian food so you may need to sort through what you like if you are not Nigerian

2. Eko Restaurant and lounge

As the name suggests, EKO (meaning Lagos) is a Nigerian spot that is famous for hosting huge events and parties . For many years , EKO and Kalakutah were the go to places for the fun seeking Africans. Eko African cuisine as they are called is located on the west side of Indianapolis. Over the years, EKO restaurant and lounge have hosted massive artists like Dbanj, Zlatan Ibile , and Yinka Ayefele just to mention a few. They also serve Nigerian food and pastries . Check out some of their more popular events like Exhibit A

Associated DJs

*DJ Stunt
*DJ XClone
*DJ Smart
*DJ Larry
*DJ Delly Jay

Pros

-Huge parking space for free parking
-Great space inside and outside
-Safe and clean environment

Cons

– Food is mostly Nigerian food.

3. De Proof restaurant and Bar

This is a relatively new spot that came in the scene in 2019. They were a breath of fresh air for promoters who were seeking for more spaces to host their events. Located on Washington street, D Proof restaurant serves a lot of Africans in the Plainfield / Avon/ Camby area of Indianapolis . This spot serves good Nigerian food and are also heavy on Nigerian events and music. This is also a great spot to catch local artists and concerts.

Associated DJs

*DJ Larry
*DJ Stunt
*DJ Xclone

Pros
-Laid back and chill
-Clean and calm environment
-Great hosts, very welcoming due it not being as fast-paced.
-Huge parking space. Parking is free

Cons

-They are pretty new.
-Not as many events as most places.
-Menu is limited to Nigerian food.

3. 05 Arena

05 Arena is neither a club or a lounge. It is an event center that hosts all manners of events . The management of the Arena rents the place out to Individuals and promoters who are hoping to find a space for parties or events. It is hard to tell what to expect at the arena unless you follow some of their promoters on social media. Their events range from wedding ceremonies, college parties,  or ball parties . We would definitely recommend this spot if you are an independent promoter looking for a nice space to host your events. Although their is a restaurant attached to the event center, you are allowed to bring in your own catering for your event.

Associated DJs

*DJ Xclone
*DJ Delly Jay
*DJ Larry

Pros

-Very spacious (Seating available, tables and chairs)
-Flexible and customizable
-Music is flexible as it houses different crowds depending on who is renting
-Huge parking lot for free parking

Cons

-Parking lot could be limited as it is shared with a few busy businesses
-Not knowing what to expect only if you follow promoters
-Little or no social media presence

4. Delicious African Cuisine and Bar

This is a nice lounge located in Greenwood on the south-side of Indiana. Most of the other venues are concentrated around the west-side where many Africans congregate , but the owners of Delicious African cuisine decided that it would be best to go in search of a more diverse crowd on the south side. The south Side of Indianapolis houses very few Nigerians but is home to quite a number of eastern Africans and Southern African. This is a very clean` spot with more of a Liberian vibe, which reflects the culture of it’s owners. The atmosphere is cozy and it is suited for any type of parties, business meetings , and corporate events. This spot is popular for frequently hosts top artists and celebrities in the city of Indianapolis.

Associated DJs

*DJ Smart
*VDJ Wada
*DJ Sleezy

Pros

-Play a wide range of music to satisfy the more diverse nature of their guests
-Huge parking space for free parking
-Flexible space to accommodate all types of events.
-Music is flexible and wide range

Cons

-It is mature and laid back. Therefore if you are looking to find a wild and active crowd, this may not be the place.
-Music is delivered by a playlist mostly.

5. Negrill

Negrill was commissioned during the pandemic. It’s design and lay out is beautiful and the painting and graffiti of Important Jamaican Icons and personality on the wall is particularly impressive. It kind of feels as if you are in a museum of Jamaican culture. It’s main aim is to give the Afro-carribean community a place to call home in Indianapolis. They serve Jamaican styled cuisine and drinks.

Associated DJ

*DJ Viruz

Pros

-Sparkling clean (new lounge)
-Free parking

Cons

-Music is heavily Jamaican, just a few Afro-beat and hip-hop songs
-Parking lot is really small
-Serve only Jamaican styled cuisine – Jerk chicken, curry goat, Plantains , ox tail and drinks

6. Lava

Located in Broadripple Indiana – one of the busiest party districts in Indiana, Lava has become very famous for serving Hookah, food , drinks and great all round music . Wednesdays are one of the most popular nights and you would have to call ahead of time to reserve a table or you may not be let in the building let alone find somewhere to sit. Lava has an international vibe and the songs played each night comes from all over the world. The playlist usually includes Hip hop and R&B and also a small dose of Afro beat music.

Associated DJs

*DJ Splash
*Deejay Xclone

Pros

*Hookah available
*Great International crowd

Cons

-Reservation required to avoid standing outside
-Limited parking. Payment required often

7. CasBa

Casba has been the number one lounge for reggae listeners here in Indianapolis. Every Sunday, reggae lovers from all over the city troop in their hundreds to Casba to listen to DJ Indiana Jones play. Sadly, DJ Indiana Jones just passed away a few days ago and nobody knows what will happen at the spot after the demise of their iconic DJ. Casba place is religiously followed by Reggae and Ragga fans.

Associated DJs

*DJ Indiana Jones
*DJ Viruz

Cons

-Small Space with only one entrance and exit for guests
-No parking available. Fees may apply

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DJ Warlord is back with another party mix. It’s the time of the year for parties but this year 2020 seems to be a unique year and no one knows if we would be able to party extensively outdoor. However, DJ Warlord serves us some of the biggest songs playing on radio at the moment. People can argue that there are more hits songs on radio now due to the pandemic and the fact that artists were able to take some time off and write songs. Listen and download the 2020 party vibes by DJ Warlord below.

Download

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It’s certain that Sadadi is an exceptional act. The Atlanta based Afro-beat superstar continues to show-off his versatility, flows and, outstanding pen game.

Whew! In an exclusive interview a few weeks ago, Sadadi explained how he has avoided addressing personal matters in his songs but that he made an exception with his upcoming single ‘Paranoid’

Paranoid is here guys, and Sadadi opens up a little to allow his listeners connect with him on a deeper level. He addressed the challenges he faces daily, the progress he made so far, his real life goals, life in the streets, and how being away from ‘real’ family for a long time randomly affects his mood.

Think I’m lying ? hit the play button

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Nigeria-born US-based disc jockey and songwriter, DJ Kassava, is rated as the Afro-beat king in New Jersey, USA. Also Known for his fearless mixes on the decks,  DJ Kassava won the Best Afro-beat DJ 2019. He also possesses some major singles in his arsenal including Opoju, Kalakuta and Shamaya.

Talking about Arsenal DJ Kassava just added a new piece of music to his collection titled “Waste”. Waste features Gidising, Leevibes, and Mulla. Check it out below

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Money Heist is Kolly Bizzle’s newest offering . He is one of the nicest Nigerian rappers living in Indianapolis, USA. The young artist who already has an impressive collection of songs is looking to expand on his catalog.

Kolly Bizzle says his dream is to become a rich and a successful artist and Money Heist is a song that buttresses that. Both the song and the video are solid and are currently trending in Indianapolis, USA. Please watch and share below

“Man Makes the money, Money never makes the man”

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Jah kissmen is out with another impressive single titled “Keep your eyes open”. The song is coming at the heels of the just concluded #endsars protest in Nigeria, the right time if you ask me, especially if you consider all the youthful lives ruined by politicians and their rhetoric. Issues such as poverty, corruption, election violence, thuggery, drug abuse , teenage pregnancy and abortion are some of the highest causes of incarceration and deaths in Africa. Yet all politicians do is to steal from the people.

The butterfly crooner is known to be a strong critique of bad governance and he uses his music to preach and push his ideologies. The song “keep your eyes open” drops with a video directed by Mazi Ifeanyi and the audio is available on all streaming platforms.

In summary, the African youth should understand his rights and should not let dirty politicians get away with everything. The people should hold them accountable for their actions. Watch keep your eyes open below

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As we reflect on the reign of terror and bullets that occurred at the Lekki tollgate on the night of 20 October 2020, during the largely peaceful #EndSars protest in Lagos Nigeria, we as concerned citizens have decided not to lower our voices to the movement to end police brutality and bad governance in Nigeria. We will not let the blood of those slayed be in vain neither will we be intimidated. We will talk #Sorosoke

Watch Onosz new Single Talk below.

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Deecy, real names Damilola Onikoyi is a Nigerian Afro-beat artist based in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. His first song Kele featuring Kapish received very positive reviews in and around the city and provided the required push and incentive for Deecy’s adventure into music. Still very young in the industry, Deecy is very curious to see where this whole Journey will take him.

Minister of Faji – his 3rd ever single,  is a single off his upcoming EP and is very reminiscent of Fela’s sound. It features chanted vocals, complex intersecting rhythms, and percussion. Click on the icons below to play and download.

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