From rooftop to global: Borel reshapes funk

Filmed in Vidigal, “Afro Favela” blends funk and Afro House, pushing favela sounds into global club culture with a new sonic vision.

As the sun dips behind Rio’s coastline, DJ Gabriel do Borel turns a rooftop into a global stage. “Afro Favela – From The Borel To The World” captures that moment, where Brazilian funk meets Afro House in a set designed to travel far beyond its origins.

The audiovisual project runs for about 1 hour and 10 minutes and uses Vidigal’s landscape as both backdrop and statement. It positions the favela not just as inspiration, but as a cultural exporter shaping global sound.

Expansion, not departure

Rather than leaving funk behind, Gabriel expands it. He introduces layered textures and Afro House influences while keeping the rhythmic identity that built his career intact.

The set features the EP’s three tracks, seamlessly blending local and global references. Each transition reinforces a deliberate bridge between scenes.

A global trajectory

This shift builds on an already international career. Gabriel earned a Latin Grammy nomination for his work with Anitta, including “Mil Vezes,” and contributed to the album “Funk Generation.”

His productions have reached stages like the MTV Video Music Awards and UEFA Champions League events. In fashion, brands such as Louis Vuitton and Mugler have featured his music on the runway.

With billions of streams and collaborations like Rosalía’s “Motomami Deluxe,” Gabriel now uses “Afro Favela” to reposition the favela as a global creative hub.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdISafpLS_Y

Event Info

• Project: Afro Favela – From The Borel To The World
• Artist: DJ Gabriel do Borel
• Format: EP + audiovisual DJ set (1h10)
• Release date: May 15
• Distribution: ONErpm
• Available on: digital platforms