Free Admission

Soy Africano

Transportive, complex rhythms and lilting guitars —all West African trademarks —meld with familiar Latin sounds to bring you a spirited evening exploring new territory in diasporic connections. Soy Africano highlights the overlooked history and widespread influence of latin music in West Africa by showcasing the ways in which clave­-based Cuban music and New York Salsa were embraced by Africans, and led to thriving “latin afro” scenes in countries like Senegal, Benin, Guinea and the Congo. 
 

Featured vocalists include Afrisa International's Wawali, Son Mayor's Alfredo Ortiz, Chicano Batman's Bardo Martinez, Brazilian songstress Thalma de Freitas and the legendary Lazaro Gallaraga among other surprise guests.
 

Produced for Grand Performances by Radio Afrique and Dexter Story (Music Director/Conductor)Alfredo Ortiz - Vocals, Percussion
Bardo Martinez - Vocals, Keyboards
Dexter Story - Music Director, Arranger, Keyboards
Edgar Modesto - Percussion
Gabriel Garcia - Guitar
Huit Kilos - Guitar
Josiel Perez - Trumpet
Kahlil Cummings - Percussion
Lazaro Galaraga - Vocals
Nakeiltha "Nikki" Campbell - Percussion
Quincy McCrary - Keyboards
Randal Fisher - Tenor Saxophone, Flute
Te'Amir Sweeney - Drums
Thalma de Freitas - Vocals
Trevor Ware - Bass
Tylana Renga - Violin
Wawali - Vocals
w/ Special Guests