🎵 “I believe in myself — Yay! Yo!” That’s the joyful chorus you’ll be hearing from kids everywhere thanks to the newest release from FUSHA Kids, the musical brainchild of dancer, educator, and cultural icon Funmilayo Chesney.
Released on May 16, 2025, the vibrant Afrobeats album I Believe In Myself blends the pulsating energy of African rhythms with empowering lyrics that uplift Black children and affirm their identity, all while getting their bodies moving.
If you’re looking for music that fuels self-esteem, cultural pride, and pure fun, this album deserves a permanent spot on your family’s playlist.
More Than Music — It’s a Movement
Funmilayo Chesney, founder of FUSHA Dance Company and a global ambassador of traditional African dance, created this album as a tool to encourage children, especially children of color, to move with purpose and pride.
Using call-and-response, upbeat lyrics, and global influences like Afrobeats, hip hop, reggae, salsa, and calypso, the album features songs that reflect the richness of the African Diaspora while delivering positive messages that speak directly to kids.
Through songs like “Afro Alphabet” and “I Believe In Myself,” children learn more than melodies—they learn confidence, history, and heritage.
Why Parents Are Loving I Believe In Myself
This album isn’t just catchy—it’s culturally intentional. Here’s why parents, educators, and community leaders are embracing it:
- Celebrates Black culture: FUSHA Kids centers children of African descent with joyful, affirming music rooted in Diasporic traditions.
- Supports SEL (social-emotional learning): Lyrics about self-worth, inclusion, and identity reinforce critical life lessons.
- Encourages movement and creativity: Great for classroom dance breaks, home fitness fun, or family jam sessions.
- Representation matters: Kids get to hear music where they are the heroes, the leaders, and the inspiration.
Perfect for Juneteenth Celebrations
Looking for an exciting way to bring culture and joy to your Juneteenth celebration? I Believe In Myself is a perfect addition to your soundtrack. With its themes of Black pride, freedom, and community, it provides the perfect rhythm for honoring the day while celebrating our children’s future.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, organizing a community event, or just vibing at home, this album helps kids connect with their roots while enjoying music that reflects their identity and joy.
Meet the Visionary Behind FUSHA Kids
Funmilayo Chesney is more than a performer—she’s a cultural storyteller. Born in Brazil, raised in Guyana, and rooted in Brooklyn, Funmilayo has taught traditional African dance and drumming to children and adults around the world, from the UN to the Apollo Theater.
As founder of FUSHA Dance Company (Fierce Undulating Spirits Have Arrived), she’s long blended music, movement, and education. With I Believe In Myself, she steps into the music spotlight, bringing that same spirit of empowerment to a younger generation.
Fun Fact: World-Class Production, Too
The album is produced by Al MacDowell, a legendary bassist and composer best known for his work with jazz pioneer Ornette Coleman. His contributions lend a rich, musical texture that takes these songs from good to Grammy-worthy.
Album Details:
Title: I Believe In Myself
Artist: FUSHA Kids
Label: Frances Lakshmi Records
Release Date: May 16, 2025
Age Range: 5–12
Digital SRP: $11.88
Runtime: 32 minutes
Available On: Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, YouTube Music, Pandora, Tidal, and all major streaming platforms
Final Note to Parents
Black children deserve music that reflects their greatness, and I Believe In Myself delivers exactly that. It’s joyful. It’s educational. It’s powerful.
Whether you’re dancing in the kitchen, teaching history through music, or building your Juneteenth playlist, this album creates an atmosphere of cultural pride and personal power.
🎧 Press play. Dance it out. Say it loud: I believe in myself!
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