Newen Afrobeat

Founded in 2009 by composer/vocalist Nicholas Urbina, Newen Afrobeat is the first afrobeat ensemble formed in Chile. The ensemble’s membership is composed of up to 15 musicians and two dancers. Their music celebrates many causes include woman’s empowerment, indigenous rights, the environment, and multiculturism. Inspired by the music of Fela Kuti, Nicholas Urbina composed all the music featured on their 2013 self-titled debut album. Newen Afrobeat toured regularly until leader Nicholas Urbina decided to relocate to the US. They played one last show together at the Felabration Festival in 2016 before he officially left the band. After a short break, most of the of the group’s members chose to continue as Newen Afrobeat. In 2017, they released the Newen Plays Fela EP, a tribute to the artist that inspired the band’s music. Their next release was the 2019 album Curiche.