Extra names added for new Diaspora Calling! Festival at National Bowl in Milton Keynes

Extra names have been added to the bill for the new Disapora Calling! Festival taking place at the Milton Keynes National Bowl in August.

Taking place at Milton Keynes National Bowl on Friday 7th August 2026, the festival is headlined by acclaimed star Ms. Lauryn Hill.

Names now confirmed as joining her are neo-soul artist Erykah Badu, UK rap star Giggs, Nigerian Afrobeats star Fireboy DML and American comedian and cultural commentator Dave Chappelle, who will serve as the event’s host.

Wyclef Jean, YG Marley and Zion Marley were among names already confirmed as appearing at the festival.

The festival is a new event that adds to a busy schedule of summer concerts at the Bowl. The venue will also be hosting the Electric Paradise Festival, the now-3-day Reggae Land festival and a Prodigy concert, with all these shows taking place in August.

Tickets for Diaspora! Calling go on sale on Friday 3rd July at 9am.

Originally conceived by Ms. Lauryn Hill in 2016, Diaspora Calling! was created as a music and arts platform celebrating the creativity, culture and shared histories of the African diaspora.

Beginning with a curated art exhibition and live performance in Brooklyn, the initiative has evolved across multiple formats while maintaining its focus on artistic expression, cultural exchange and collective experience.

Joining the bill is Erykah Badu, one of the most influential and singular artists of her generation. Widely recognised for redefining neo soul and blending jazz, R&B and spiritual expression, Badu’s artistry and live performances have made her a revered cultural figure whose influence extends far beyond music.

Representing the UK is Giggs, one of the most influential figures in British rap and a pioneering force in UK music. Renowned for his distinctive flow, uncompromising lyricism and lasting impact on the UK hip-hop landscape, Giggs has helped shape a generation of artists while building a catalogue that continues to resonate across audiences. His addition further strengthens Diaspora Calling!’s celebration of cultural legacy, artistic excellence and the global reach of Black music.

Further broadening the festival’s global reach is Fireboy DML, one of the defining voices in contemporary African music. The Nigerian superstar has become a leading figure in the global rise of Afrobeats, earning international acclaim through chart-topping releases, acclaimed projects and collaborations while continuing to showcase African music and culture to audiences around the world.

Lastly, adding a further dimension to the programme is Dave Chappelle, the award winning comedian and storyteller whose work has become synonymous with sharp social commentary and fearless cultural observation. On hosting duties, his appearance reflects Diaspora Calling!’s wider creative vision and longstanding commitment to dialogue, perspective and shared cultural experience.

Together, the completed lineup reinforces Diaspora Calling! as more than a concert, presenting a large scale cultural gathering shaped by legacy, innovation and diaspora storytelling.

The format of the event will see the Bowl host one main stage alongside a full food village celebrating diverse flavours and traders. The organisers said that, “With its large scale capacity, high spec production and accessible location, the site provides a fitting home for Diaspora Calling!’s historic UK debut.”