Author Johny Pitts Debuts Groundbreaking Podcast on the Rich Heritage of Black Communities Across Europe
Johny Pitts, a celebrated author known for his award-winning travel memoir Afropean: Notes from Black Europe, is set to unveil a compelling new podcast series titled Afropean Podcast. This six-part series, produced in collaboration with Reduced Listening, aims to delve into the often-overlooked histories, cultures, and contributions of Black communities within key European cities. Launching on November 5, the podcast promises an immersive exploration of Black heritage that goes beyond conventional tourist narratives.
Uncovering Hidden Histories
In a continent where Black histories are frequently sidelined, the Afropean Podcast seeks to illuminate the profound impact and enduring legacies of African descendants in European society. Each episode will focus on a different European capital—Brussels, Amsterdam, Berlin, Stockholm, Lisbon, and Paris—offering listeners a diverse and nuanced perspective on the Black experience.
Episode Highlights
- Brussels: A Walk Through History
- Join Pitts as he guides listeners through a black history walking tour in Belgium’s capital, highlighting significant sites and stories that are often left out of mainstream narratives.
- Amsterdam: Decolonial Canal Rides
- Experience the rich maritime history of the Netherlands with on-the-water explorations that reveal the complex relationship between colonialism and contemporary Black identity.
- Berlin: Psycho-Geographic Strolls
- Traverse the historical fault lines of the Berlin Wall, engaging with the memories of division and reunification while examining their implications for the Black community.
- Stockholm: Architectural Wanderings
- Discover the architectural influences that reflect the cultural richness of Black Swedes, featuring discussions on how buildings tell stories of migration and settlement.
- Lisbon: Musical Journeys
- Dive into the vibrant musical landscape of Lisbon, exploring genres like Buracas, which reflect the African diaspora’s significant contributions to Portuguese culture.
- Paris: The Heart of Afro-Futurism
- Engage with the avant-garde artists and thinkers redefining Black identity in the City of Light, drawing connections to the broader Afro-Futurist movement.
Voices of Influence
The Afropean Podcast stands out not just for its themes but also for its inclusion of leading Black scholars, artists, activists, and musicians throughout the episodes. Interviews with notable figures such as Gloria Wekker, Sibo Kanobana, and Zap Mama will provide expert insights, ensuring a well-rounded exploration of each city’s cultural tapestry. The series aims to elevate voices that contribute to the understanding of Europe’s rich Black heritage while addressing contemporary social issues and inequities.
A Companion Photobook
In conjunction with the podcast, Pitts is also launching a high-quality 300-page analogue photobook titled Afropean Journal. Published by Mörel, this visually striking collection compiles two decades of Pitts’ photography, notebooks, and ephemera, providing a rich visual companion to the podcast’s themes. The photobook will debut at Paris Photo 2024, further enriching the Afropean experience for audiences.
Industry Insight
Joby Waldman, Managing Director of Reduced Listening, expressed his excitement for the project, stating, “We are super excited about teaming up with Johny Pitts to facilitate the Afropean podcast. A long time in the making, this revisionist history series sheds light on the cultural richness, and social inequities stemming from Africa’s long and complex relationship with Europe.” This partnership not only highlights the necessity of these discussions but also signals a broader cultural shift toward inclusive narratives in media.
Conclusion
The Afropean Podcast is poised to be an essential listen for anyone interested in understanding the complex, vibrant, and often overlooked histories of Black communities in Europe. By combining immersive storytelling with expert interviews and a visual companion book, Johny Pitts offers a multifaceted approach to learning that transcends traditional media formats. Mark your calendars for November 5, and prepare to engage with a narrative that enriches our understanding of European history through a critical lens.
