NPR Music and globalFEST showcase diverse global talents

On March 31, 2025, NPR Music and globalFEST launched the fifth edition of their Tiny Desk x globalFEST festival in Washington, D.C., featuring live performances accessible via YouTube and NPR.org. The festival showcases international artists, including Elida Almeida from Cape Verde, Zar Electrik from France, and the Colombian group Rebolu. Elida Almeida brings a mix of Cabo Verdean beats infused with Latino energy, emphasizing her cultural heritage through her music. Zar Electrik modernizes the centuries-long tradition of Gnawa music with a unique style that blends electronic production with traditional elements. They capture the cultural essence of their countries while urging viewers to dance and connect with their roots. Rebolu, an Afro-Caribbean ensemble from Colombia, combines traditional rhythms and modern influences, known for captivating audiences with their dynamic performances. They aim to promote cultural preservation through music. The annual Tiny Desk x globalFEST series, established in 2021, serves to bring global music to wider audiences, fostering a connection to international cultures and traditions through the accessible Tiny Desk format. This year's festival reinforces the commitment to highlight diverse musical talents and provide a platform for cultural exchange and celebration. The collaboration between NPR Music and globalFEST marks a significant evolution in how international music is presented to audiences. By facilitating these performances online, they engage a global audience in appreciating different musical forms and traditions. Given the current climate where many festivals are still navigating the post-pandemic reality, this initiative revives the celebration of live music and community, underscoring that music transcends borders, bringing people together regardless of their backgrounds.