Afro D & Global Soundwaves to play at Homer Lake on Aug. 27

By Brett McMahon 

Afro D & Global Soundwaves will play their first show at Homer Lake on August 27.

The band, which formed in 2019, is led by Pete Shungu, whose stage name is Afro D. Guitarist Mark White came up with the Global Soundwaves name and it fit nicely with Shungu’s vision. Shungu’s father is from the Democratic Republic of Congo, and though he was raised in the United States, the musician strives to reflect a sense of global connection through the music he makes.

Shungu, White, and bassist Mitchell Killough started the band and have since been joined by drummer Jamie Mauck, Keyboard and trombone player Brighton Sier and saxophonist Larry Parks.

Their music is described as being socially conscious, which Shungu explains by saying “It’s music that can’t be encompassed by one genre.  We blend elements of jazz, hip hop, funk and soul into a cohesive sound that reflects the diverse musical experiences of the band’s members.  We play mostly original tunes, but also mix in some covers of tunes by legendary artists like Herbie Hancock and much more.”

He writes much of the band’s material and focuses on lyrics that can bring people together, build community and challenge oppression.

With the view that music can make the world a better place, Shungu’s lyrics target all ages.

He says “I write hip hop lyrics that are family-friendly and designed to speak to people of all ages.  I am a father myself and I love when kids (whether my own kids or other kids) are able to see us perform.”

He is also a music educator, working at the University of Illinois, which allows him to reach the next generation directly through forming a musical connection.

Shungu has high hopes for the Homer Lake show, saying “This will be our first show at Homer Lake.  We are looking forward to having the chance to play an outdoor, all ages show at a venue as beautiful as Homer Lake.  We hope that the beauty of our music can parallel the natural beauty of our surroundings, and that people who attend the concert gain a greater appreciation for the beauty of our world and the importance of caring for our environment.”

As for what those attending can expect, he states “A good time, no matter your age, race, or background.  We have fun on stage and we want the audience to have fun as well.  Expect to hear some smooth vibes, killer improvised solos, insightful hip hop rhymes, and a combo of live instruments including trumpet, saxophone and much more.”

The hope is that folks take away a sense of positivity, new appreciation for the Hip-Hop genre and look forward to seeing the group perform again.

Next on the band’s calendar is a September 2 outdoor show at The Rose Bowl in Champaign and an October 7 gig as part of the Toast of Taylor on Taylor Street in Champaign. Upcoming show information can be found on the band’s website afrodandglobalsoundwaves.com as well as their Instagram and Facebook accounts. Looking ahead, Shungu says the band’s goals include recording an album along with continuing to play shows in the Central Illinois area, reaching folks through their music.

He adds that they have not yet had the opportunity to play larger cities like Chicago, St. Louis or Indianapolis, but would welcome the opportunity to continue building the fan base by playing those larger cities.