most malines just want to have a good time this event has been nicknamed the woodstock of africa with the main stage right on the banks of the river there is a gap there main idea behind this fourteenth festival on the news here is culture in resistance that means culture against the opposition to the spread of knowledge we are culture militants here we are dedicated to artistic development and we are carrying the torch of peace for. most of the crowd here knows the lyrics to their favorite songs by heart including songs by abbey plenty. i. he's well known outside mali for his poetic bluesy ballads. the audience often becomes a giant choir. as well and little does the same with this festival is symbolic for us in many ways even the now. festival on the new symbolizes the convergence of our spirits that. they flow in the bloody nose reigns in the flow of the river. while the money and stars attract the biggest crowds the festival organizers have also invited other african musicians like spirit from morocco. for us coming here is like visiting a neighbor visiting the family we don't hav