Alpha Blondy & The Solar System | ONE LOVE CONCERT

Hailing from the Cote d'Ivoire, Grammy nominated Alpha Blondy is among the world's most popular reggae artists, if not the biggest and most enduring reggae star in the world today.

Gifted with a sweet voice and a songwriting style that's sunny effervescence one minute, cutting and bitter the next, the enigmatic Alpha Blondy is an improbable combination of fun and revolution, new and old, earthy and tech, and more than anything, a tough one to ignore. Like Bob Marley, he is seen as an icon of international peace and understanding. His multilingual songs promote faith and reconciliation while attacking corrupt politicians and religious zealots. With his 12-piece band Solar System, Blondy offers a reggae beat with a distinctive African cast. Calling himself an African Rasta, Blondy creates Jah-centered anthems promoting morality, love, peace and social consciousness. With a range that moves from sensitivity to rage over injustice, much of Blondy's music empathizes with the impoverished and those on society's fringe. Blondy is also a staunch supporter of African unity and to this end, he sings to Moslem audiences in Hebrew and sings in Arabic to Israelis. Some of his best known songs include "Cocody Rock," "Brigadier Sabari", "Jerusalem" and "Apartheid Is Nazism."

In 2000 Alpha Blondy was voted the number one artist by Radio France international poll. His popularity continues to grow, and he continues steadily releasing albums. His Melbourne detour concert from Bluesfest, offers another rare opportunity for all lovers of good conscious music to witness this unique musical genius and UN Peace Ambassador for Cote d'Ivoire at work - live!