3. Cafe Korb Barbara Alli + Band Live
An Unforgettable Night at Café Korb with Barbara Alli!
On October 16th, Café Korb transformed into an electrifying haven of music, rhythm, and soul as Barbara Alli and her talented band took the stage for a night to remember. From the warm-up DJ set to the captivating live performances, the energy in the room was contagious, pulling everyone together in the magic of music and storytelling.
The evening kicked off at 7 p.m. with a vibrant DJ set, setting the mood with Afro-fusion, soul, and jazz beats that had everyone swaying as they found their seats. By 8 p.m., the excitement was palpable as Barbara and her band took their places, ready to deliver an unforgettable performance.
The Band & The Music
Each musician brought their unique touch, creating a rich, layered sound that resonated through Café Korb. Here’s a glimpse at the incredible lineup that night:
• Fadi: Pianist – Masterful and soulful, our pianist’s melodies carried us through the evening, blending seamlessly with every other instrument.
• Kristian: Base – Groovy, deep basslines filled the space, grounding the rhythms and keeping the audience locked into the heartbeat of each song.
• Castro: Percussion – The energetic percussion added the lively pulse of African rhythms, infusing each track with rhythm and movement.
• Pascal: Guitar – Smooth and dynamic guitar riffs brought warmth to every note, enhancing the soulful atmosphere.
• Thomas: Saxophone – The saxophone’s soulful tone was a crowd favorite, adding a layer of depth and emotion that tied each set together.
• Barbara Alli’s Vocals – Barbara’s voice was powerful yet tender, bringing the lyrics to life and connecting with the audience in a deeply personal way.
Each song was a journey, blending Afro-beats, soul, pop, and jazz to create a unique sound that moved effortlessly from high-energy rhythms to poignant, reflective moments. The night was filled with surprises, and Barbara’s storytelling between songs added a heartfelt touch that gave everyone a glimpse into her journey and her passion for music.
Heartfelt Thanks to Our Supporters
We are so grateful to everyone who came out to Café Korb to support Barbara Alli and the band. Your energy and enthusiasm filled the room and made this night truly special. Every clap, cheer, and smile lifted the performance to new heights, and we couldn’t have done it without each one of you.
Stay tuned for more! Checkout images for the impression of this night, so you can relive the magic—or get a taste if you couldn’t join us this time.
Thank you for being part of this journey. We can’t wait to see you at the next show!
A Celebration of Art, Achievement, and Heritage at MyAbility’s 10th Anniversary
As an artist, there are moments in life when everything aligns perfectly—when the music, the energy, and the celebration of hard work all come together to create something extraordinary. My performance at myAbility’s 10th-anniversary celebration in Vienna was one of those moments. I was honored to perform not just as a singer-songwriter, but as a creative who has spent the past two decades celebrating life, culture, and diversity through both music and fashion.
This year has been incredible for me. I have continued to grow as a singer-songwriter and had the privilege of being recognised as a fashion designer, winning the Black Excellence Award. This recognition means so much—celebrating my achievements while being part of the African diaspora for over 20 years. Wow, wow, wow! It’s truly an amazing moment to reflect on how far I’ve come, and I couldn’t have asked for a better occasion than the myAbility event to showcase everything I stand for.
For this performance, I didn’t just celebrate my music—I also celebrated my heritage. I wore a special gold dress from my own fashion brand, Handmade Story, which was carefully chosen for the event. The color gold is not just a design choice—it’s deeply symbolic of the Gold Coast, representing the rich heritage of Ghana and Nigeria, countries known for their beauty in music, fashion, and art. Gold signifies value, prosperity, and the preciousness of life, all of which resonated perfectly with the spirit of the evening.
But it wasn’t just the gold that told a story. I paired it with a black tulle overlay, representing strength and resilience. This combination was a visual reflection of who I am—a powerful, strong individual who has faced challenges and emerged stronger. I wore this with the hope that it would inspire everyone in the audience to tap into their inner strength and find peace, even in the face of difficulty.
The night was also about unity, celebration, and the recognition of all the incredible individuals and organizations I’ve had the privilege to work with. This year, I’ve had the honour of celebrating not only my 10-year anniversary as an artist but also the 10th anniversary of Ethiopian Airlines, an organization close to my heart. It felt like the perfect blend of personal and shared milestones, all woven into one beautiful evening.
As I performed my set—beginning with my favourite song which I wrote for Adam’s Project, followed by the debut of a new single - sang for the first time live at this event, and concluding with the well-known “Celebration”—I could feel the audience connecting with the music, the message, and the moment. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love what I do. When music, art, and personal triumphs come together, we create a space where everyone can feel inspired and included.
I am immensely grateful to myAbility for booking me again and for giving me the chance to share my music, fashion, and message with such an incredible audience. Here’s to many more performances, celebrations, and moments of unity. Loving what I do is what allows me to do it best—and I hope to continue inspiring others to follow their dreams, just as I have
2. CAFE KORB
🌟✨🎷 Right now, we are stepping into the Magical World of Afro Jazz: An Unforgettable Night at Café Korb! 🎷✨🌟
Barbara Alli's last concert Afro Jazz extravaganza at Café Korb wasn't just about the music; it was a showcase of unparalleled talent and musical synergy. On stage, the band was a force to be reckoned with, each member bringing their own unique flair to the table, creating a sonic tapestry that left the audience in awe.
Leading the rhythm section was Amaro, whose mastery of the drum set brought the heartbeat of the night to life. His beats were like a pulse, driving the energy of the room and keeping everyone grooving to the music.
On the left side of the stage, hailing all the way from Chile, was Marcelo, whose guitar skills were nothing short of extraordinary. With each strum of his guitar, he transported us to distant lands, infusing the music with the soulful sounds of his homeland.
On bass, Miguel held down the low end with finesse, his steady rhythm anchoring the band's sound and providing the perfect foundation for the rest of the ensemble to build upon.
And let's not forget Leo, our saxophonist extraordinaire, whose soulful melodies added a touch of raw emotion to the night's proceedings. His saxophone wailed and soared, painting vivid musical landscapes that captivated the audience from start to finish.
Adding an extra layer of rhythm and texture was Mr. Castro on percussion, whose skills transported us to the streets of Senegal with every beat. His intricate rhythms and infectious grooves had everyone moving and shaking in their seats.
And of course, at the center of it all was Barbara Alli herself, whose mesmerizing vocals and magnetic stage presence tied the whole performance together. With her voice as the guiding light, the band weaved through genres and styles with ease, creating a musical journey that was as enchanting as it was exhilarating.
Together, Barbara Alli and her band created magic on stage, transporting us to a world where music knows no boundaries and the spirit of groove reigns supreme. It was a night to remember, and we can't wait to do it all over again on the 16th of October 2024. Secure your tickets now and prepare to be swept away once more by the irresistible sounds of Barbara Alli and her incredible band.
🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵
As the final notes faded into the night, we couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude and fulfillment wash over us. Our Afro Jazz Night at Café Korb was a resounding success, thanks to the unwavering support of our incredible audience. To each and every one of you who danced, sang, and laughed with us, we extend our deepest thanks. Your energy and enthusiasm fueled our performance and made it a night to remember.
We also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Mr. Franz Schubert, the gracious host of Café Korb, for opening his doors to us once again. It's been an honor to perform at such a prestigious venue, and we are thrilled to announce that we'll be back for a third performance at the Heart Center of Vienna. We can't wait to share our music with you all once again, and we hope to see familiar faces and new friends alike in the audience.
To all our beautiful friends, loyal clients, and amazing new acquaintances we had the pleasure of meeting, thank you for your support. Spread the word and invite your loved ones to join us for our next concert—it's sure to be another unforgettable evening of music and camaraderie.
And for those who want to stay updated on all things Barbara Alli and Band; we'd love to have you along for the journey.
Subscribe to our newsletter - artist@barbaraalli.com. so you won't miss out on any future concerts or events.
Until we meet again, keep the groove alive and stay tuned for more musical adventures. Thank you, Vienna, for an amazing night—we'll see you around!
Next concert.
16.10.
Café Korb.
Brandstätte 7 /9, 1010 Wien.
Info - 06763643962
In Search of Home in Music: Barbara Alli Weaves Fashion, Culture, and Music
She is a multifaceted artist, born in Ghana but raised in Nigeria. Barbara Alli found her musical calling at the tender age of six, and her passion for singing soon blossomed into an undeniable talent. Over the years, she honed her skills, drawing inspiration from musical legends like Beyonce Knowles, Michael Jackson, and Fela Kuti to craft her unique Afro-Pop style. In 2004, her journey took her to Austria, where she made Vienna her home and continued to evolve her artistic prowess. Here, she not only became an established artist but also fulfilled her lifelong dream of aiding the less privileged in her homeland, bridging the gap between European-African fashion and her rich cultural heritage.
This conversation digs into her enthralling story, examining how she’s found her place in the world through music, design, and a dedication to giving back.
FAB: You share both Nigerian and Ghanaian genes, but you identify more with Yoruba. What makes this culture so special to you?
Barbara Alli: It’s not that I purposely chose to; my dad is mixed. He is a mixture of Hausa and Yoruba; he grew up in Nigeria. I was born in Ghana, and my dad always travelled between Ghana and Nigeria for work. My mum is a trader; she trades gold, and she also has a lot to do between Nigeria and Ghana. Both of them decided to move to Nigeria when I was four years old. Since then, I’ve been more of a Nigerian. It was where I grew up, where I went to school, and where I spent the rest of my childhood. When I became an adult, I thought to myself that I would like to go back to my country. A few of my family members are still in Ghana, so I decided to visit one of my aunts there. I was able to see the country where I was born and raised. I am in Europe now, and I’ve lived here more than anywhere in Africa. Where can I really say I’m from? I’m from this world.
From Europe to Africa: A Journey of Two Decades
FAB: You’ll clock 20 years in Europe by next year. That’s a lot of time.
Barbara Alli: Really, I don’t wanna think back. I told myself I wanted to stay for 6 months, and it was extended. No way. That’s a lot.
FAB: Let’s talk about your songs; they often carry powerful messages and emotions. Can you share with us a particular song that holds a significant personal story or message?
Barbara Alli: You’re bringing me to a very expensive space. I don’t know any of my songs that aren’t attached to any of my life’s stories because I don’t like to write regular songs about money, sex, and love. It has to be a real-life story. Sometimes I get very emotional when I go through my own lyrics and even when I sing.
I always like to have Yoruba people in my crowd so that it resonates with my audience. Sometimes I wish everyone could understand what I’m singing about. There’s this emotion that you get that brings you back to your childhood and makes you think about the things you could have done better. One of the songs I really love (I love most of my songs) because I’m very critical about my songs, talking about lyrics, is Ileya. It is one of the songs that addressed when I first went to Nigeria after spending seven years in Europe, which was supposed to be six months. I realised it’s not the way it seems; you gotta find your way out.
We always thought that Europe was gold and diamonds and stuff like that, but it’s not. Going back, I had to reflect a lot on my childhood, on the things I’ve gone through and the people that I’ve met, and on how long I stayed in Europe without a chance to fly back due to different circumstances. That made me write Ileya. When I was on the plane going back home, I thought about how I’d left my family behind for so long, and it felt like coming back home. That home is something I’ve always wanted to go back to. If you’re a foreigner, you’re automatically attached to your home. You get homesick sometimes.
When I was new here, I wished someone had told me how bad things could get, and I wanted to go back home as quickly as possible. I was just hoping for a day when I would go home. So, when the time came, I thought “Ile ya”. That kinda just came to me. I remember writing the song on the plane. I asked myself what it felt like to be at home, putting all these words together. Ileya kinda opened my eyes to see that no matter how long the journey is, it’s really great to think about the family that loves you. It’s great to still think of the people you grew up with back home. Also, encourage people who don’t have reasons to go back home—people who don’t have families to go back to—but there’s always a connection to their motherland, Africa, and to whatever culture they come from. Do not forget the bond. Ileya is one of the songs that always reminds me of who I am and where I come from.
Challenges as an African Artist in Europe
FAB: Building your career in a foreign country must have had its own challenges. How did you overcome some of these obstacles and establish yourself as an artist in Austria?
Barbara Alli: There are still challenges, and there will always be challenges. That’s one thing I’ve figured out. One of the things I’ve learned over the years is to be determined, to stay focused, and to know exactly what I want. In the beginning, I did not know exactly what I wanted, but I discovered that I had a lot more talent than just being a singer and songwriter. I was just holding on to what my mum had always reminded me of. She told me to always speak Yoruba and remind myself of who I am and where I come from. That gives me a lot of power and encouragement to focus my energy on the topic of Africa. I know Africa is big, but it’s my homeland, and I’m responsible for promoting my culture.
Basically, the challenges were huge; no one told me about them, and I wasn’t prepared. Like I said, being determined is one thing that has helped shape me into who I am today. I know that racism is a big deal, and my colour is a big deal. I think about how I can give back to the country and make a change, the things I want, and how I want to express myself. At the beginning, the challenges were about me being an African woman with black skin. Seeing myself different from everyone else was normal, and when I’d see other black people on the street, it made me happy and not feel alone.
I was very courageous to hold on; I kept regular communication with my parents and tried to believe in myself despite the circumstances and challenges. When you’re in another man’s country, there’s a lot of figuring out to do, and there are lots of challenges that will make you doubt yourself. Along the way, I figured out that once you know who you are, there are no challenges you cannot overcome. That has helped me not let my challenges break me.
African Fabrics and Their Role in Barbara Alli’s Collections
FAB: You empower the less privileged in your own country. Could you share how your initiative came about and how it intertwined with your love for music and fashion?
Barbara Alli: HANDMADESTORY has always been my desire. I’ve always wanted to give back to my culture and country. HANDMADESTORY came from my love for creating hairstyles. I loved to make hair when I was a little girl, and it helped connect me to people when I got to Europe. Handmade is something I’ve always connected with, and hair was my first inspiration when it came to handmade. When I first started my music career, I discovered that I needed clothes for my performances. Before I started singing, I used to dance. I have a dancing group that I used to manage as well, not only as a dancer in the group but also as the manager of the artists.
For an artist to be different, they have to have their own style, be unique, and be different from what is already known. I wanted something that would make things special and make people want to book us—things that would enhance our stage presence. I decided to design costumes for my dance crew then.
When I went into music, I told my mum I needed costumes, so she sent me a lot of Aso Oke, Agbada, Iro, and Buba. Aso Oke was one of the fabrics that brought my attention to designing before I started to use Ankara and the like. She sent me more clothing than I needed. I started by making accessories to enhance my looks. They were simple but elegant designs, and that made it easier for me to stand out more. I know it’s also about appearance.
People started to compliment me and ask how I got the clothes. A friend of mine, Ayo Van Elmar, who once featured me, asked me to come to a fashion show in Vienna. After that, she asked me to bring my earrings to her shop so she could sell them for me. She did that, and it opened my eyes to see that the world needed my earrings, and I sold out. I found out that people liked my designs, so I made some more, and then I launched a collection. That’s how it happened.
FAB: How do these fabrics become more than just materials but an integral part of the stories you tell through your collections?
Barbara Alli: For me, African fabric is more than just fabric. At some point, I did my research to really see where African fabric originated from. It was a signal to me to stay connected to my culture, and giving back gives me more joy. I see the way our fathers and mothers wore African fabric back in the day, and I love it. Oh! I love to see people wear it during festivals, embracing the culture. I never really like to be wrapped in iro and buba. (Laughters) I thought it made me look way older than I am.
I thought of an alternative for people like me who do not like to wear iro and buba. First, I researched what was already out there before creating my own designs because I do not like to do what’s already common. I saw that people are really embracing their culture, and it gave me the motivation to create what is missing—something new. I saw that the accessories were not there yet. So I did that. It suits European taste, and it also showcases my culture. It’s wearable and combinable with different outfits.
Giving back was a necessity because I see how important that is to me. Although nowadays a lot of designers use African fabrics, back then I made it my signature. It reminds me of who I am and helps other people embrace their culture.
Music, Fashion, and Creative Pursuits
FAB: How do you strike a balance between your different career paths and your busy schedule? What keeps you motivated?
Barbara Alli: Seeing the dynamics of my field motivates me. I love music; I don’t see anyone who doesn’t love music. Music and fashion work together. There’s no single day a human will wake up without clothing, and people always have variety in their wardrobe. I try to focus on what is good, and that gives me joy every single day as I work towards my goals. It’s even better when I see people embracing my designs, and that gives me so much joy. My motivation is maintaining consistency and waking up every day excited to do what I do best.
FAB: Creative processes can be both exhilarating and tiring. How do you overcome creative blocks and maintain artistic momentum when you’re motivated but not inspired?
Barbara Alli: Trust me, I have these moments, but I have found a way to address these challenges. That’s also why I am very diverse in my creative work. Getting stuck is a general thing for artists, but I have figured out how to not let that weigh me down. When I get stuck and do not have the right lyrics, I just leave and try to do something completely different, and I find inspiration through that. I also take walks in the forest, maybe, or go off social media. I lay everything down and create some silent moments. Getting stuck is a great challenge for artists.
FAB: Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for your fashion, music, and overall creative journey? Is there any project we should look out for from Barbara Ali?
Barbara Alli: I would love to be more engaged. Travelling is one of the things I’m looking forward to right now. For me, travelling is education; it opens up my mind to see the world, how other people deal with life, and how they handle situations. I want to dwell more on this; I really want to be seen more. I want to go to different places to auction my designs. And I want to partake in several fashion weeks. Vienna, to me, is still a place that needs to grow fashion-wise. People tell me I should be in Milan, New York, or Paris, but why not stay here with people who are in love with this kind of fashion? I want to go out and figure out what’s out there, how to be more creative, and how to do more collaborations.
COVID taught me to slow down and take it easy. My big projects are on hold right now, but I would love to release my wedding collection. I would love to finally bring out that piece that can be worn in fifty different ways. It is a piece of art, and I would love to address the world with that, to remind humanity that we are one human, one race. We are all one, no matter what. One day, I hope it goes around the world and people will find a reason to buy it.
Barbara Alli + Band
It all begins with an idea.
Vienna, Austria - In a night filled with melodies and soulful rhythms, Barbara Alli and her newly formed band delivered an exceptional performance that left the audience in awe. The atmosphere at Café Korb's "Art Lounge" was filled with love for music, and it was evident that this was a night to remember.
Barbara Alli, the talented vocalist, took the stage with her band consisting of saxophonist Amaro Chico Moralez, a bass guitarist, and a percussionist. The chemistry among the band members was palpable, making their performance truly remarkable. Each member brought their unique style and skill to the stage, creating a harmonious blend of sounds that resonated with the audience.
The concert was not only a showcase of Barbara's incredible vocal talents but also a testament to the band's remarkable musicianship. Amaro Chico Moralez, who led the rest of the band, displayed his mastery of the saxophone, captivating the crowd with every note. The bass guitarist and percussionist added depth and rhythm to the performance, creating a sonic landscape that was both captivating and entrancing.
Café Korb's "Art Lounge" provided the perfect backdrop for this musical journey, with its intimate and artistic atmosphere. The venue's acoustics complemented the band's performance, ensuring that every note and lyric reached the audience in its full glory. It's no wonder that the band sounded great and left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
For those who couldn't make it to the live performance, the good news is that Barbara Alli has announced the upcoming release of videos from the concert on her YouTube channel and more pictures on her website. This means that the magic of that evening can be relived, and new fans can discover the talent that is Barbara Alli and her band.
If you missed this enchanting evening, mark your calendars for the next concert, scheduled for April 4, 2024, at Café Korb at 19:30. With such a stellar performance, it's no surprise that Barbara Alli and her band are eager to once again fill the venue with music enthusiasts. The promise of a full house awaits, and it's an event that music lovers won't want to miss.
In conclusion, Barbara Alli and her band delivered an unforgettable performance in Vienna, showcasing their passion and incredible talents. The love for music, the outstanding musicianship, and the support of the audience made this night truly exceptional. As we eagerly await the release of videos and pictures from the concert and look forward to the next performance in 2024, one thing is certain: Barbara Alli and her band are on a remarkable musical journey, and we can't wait to see where it takes them.
For more information and booking for the next concert, visit Barbara Alli's official website at www.barbaraalliofficial.com. Until then, let the music of Barbara Alli and her band continue to inspire and captivate us all.
Barbara Alli Birthday
It all begins with an idea.
On that enchanting Valentine's Day, the 14th of February, the stars seemed to align just for Barbara Alli. It was a day when she not only celebrated her birth but chose to embrace the world with her boundless talent. As the night unfolded, it was a symphony of pure magic and unforgettable moments.
Picture this: Barbara and her friends took center stage, immersing the audience in a world of soulful melodies and electrifying rhythms. Her voice transcended the ordinary, channeling the spirit of Etta James in "I Just Want to Make Love" and the undying energy of James Brown in "I Feel Good." But that was just the beginning, for her own original songs left everyone breathless, yearning for more.
The atmosphere was nothing short of electric. The air was filled with the sweet aroma of cocktails, the music was a living, breathing entity, expertly curated by a live DJ, and the saxophone's soulful notes resonated through the hearts of the audience, leaving no one untouched.
The theme of the night, "BALL LIKE - WITH FACE MASK," brought a sense of elegance and mystique to the celebration. In the heart of Vienna, at the illustrious FASHION TV CAFE, it was a night that showcased not only Barbara's exceptional talent but also her impeccable taste in design. The venue was transformed into a realm of breathtaking fashion, a testament to her creations through @handmadestoryfashion.
But let me tell you, this was not just an event; it was a living work of art. It was an ode to talent, friendship, and style. And for those who were fortunate enough to witness it, these images serve as a tantalizing teaser for the incredible concerts yet to come. Barbara Alli's Valentine's Day celebration was nothing short of extraordinary – a night etched into the annals of time as an experience of pure, unadulterated, and unforgettable bliss.