Diaspora Calling! festival in the United Kingdom

Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean launched the Diaspora Calling! festival in London with a promotional event at Piccadilly Circus. The launch included the unveiling of an animated film by artist Lauren Halsey and served to promote the upcoming festival in Milton Keynes, which celebrates African-diaspora culture through music, art, fashion, and community programming.

The festival took place at the Milton Keynes National Bowl, drawing more than 35,000 attendees. Hosted by Dave Chappelle, the event featured a diverse lineup including Erykah Badu, YG Marley, Zion Marley, Giggs, and Fireboy DML. A central highlight was the performance by Hill and Jean commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Fugees’ album ‘The Score’. Other notable performances included a collaboration between Kano and Giggs and a tribute to Bob Marley by Zion Marley.

On Friday, August 7, the festival was cut short due to a legal curfew at the Milton Keynes Bowl. Sound was cut at 11 PM local time to comply with venue licensing requirements, with an onstage sign informing attendees that the abrupt finish was a “legal necessity”. While Wyclef Jean expressed disappointment regarding the early conclusion, he noted the positive energy of the crowd and expressed hope to continue the festival next year.