Afro Roots Fest Ventures to Key West April 21 – 23

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Award-winning world music concert series returns to Monroe County for a three night run at the Green Parrot featuring Cuban folk, funk and world grooves

Key West, FL, April 6, 2021 — Some come for Fantasy Fest and the legendary Duval Street party scene, some for the Ernest Hemingway House and six-toed cats. Others still for the Truman Little White House or the Custom House Museum of History. On April 21 through 23, 2021, many will flock to Green Parrot Bar (601 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040) for the world music, as Afro Roots Fest returns to the Conch Republic for the third time during the award-winning event’s 23rd overall season.

“We are excited to get back down to Key West to share a slice of Miami’s thriving global music scene,” says festival founder and musical curator Jose Elias, who also serves as the executive director for the presenting non-profit organization Community Arts and Culture (CAC). “It’s always a great time at the Green Parrot and we appreciate not only their support, but the generous and vital assistance given to us by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council in making this event possible.” Elias is also the co-founder and tres player in the Cuban folk group Cortadito, one of the festival’s featured performers.

Here is the complete Key West schedule / lineup:

Cortadito with special guest Tomas Diaz (April 21)

Guerra Grooves (April 22)

FABI World Music with special guest ITAWE (April 23)

There are two performances each day, one at 5:30 p.m. and one at 9 p.m. 21 and over welcome, all shows are free. 

Elias founded Cortadito alongside Julio Cesar Rodriguez Delet in November of 2011 and the band became an instant success. The duo soon recorded and released their debut CD titled Abriendo Caminos in 2012, then subsequently expanded their roster by adding several notable musicians. They quickly became regional and national festival favorites. In 2018, the band released an EP titled Canciones de Julio, and were named “Best Latin Act” by the Miami New Times in 2019. Get more details at CortaditoSon.comTomás Diaz is a solo artist and lead vocalist / percussionist for The Spam Allstars. 

Worlds of influences are brought to life by Guerra Grooves, and they are propelled by a love for the urban rhythms of Cuba, Jamaica, New Orleans funk and Miami soul. Signature arrangements, mash-ups and high-energy performances inspire audiences to move and sing the songs they love, making bassist Ariel DLP and vocalist Nikki Guerra and her cajon a much sought-after musical force. Learn more at guerragrooves.com.

Singer / songwriter and multi-instrumentalist FABI is an international touring artist based in Miami. His music carries a wide blend of world rhythms, along with a powerful and original sound. Itawe Correa is the charismatic lead vocalist for Locos Por Juana, a GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY nominated bilingual band. He is recognized for his high energy live performances and unique fusion of reggae, funk, cumbia, salsa, and rock.  

For more information, visit www.GreenParrot.com or call 305-294-6133. Check www.AfroRootsFest.com for updates and additional festival stops; more information about CAC is available at www.CommunityArtsandCulture.org.

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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE

Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. (CAC) is a Miami-based non-profit organization that fosters an appreciation and understanding of a vast assortment of arts and cultures through workshops, lectures and artistic performances in local communities for individuals of all ages and social backgrounds.

CAC has a track record of community collaborations which have earned the support of many other organizations and sponsors, such as the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural AffairsGuanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar, the Florida Department of State’s Division of Cultural Affairs, the City of Miami Beach, the Little Haiti Cultural Complex, the Moksha Arts CollectiveMiami-Dade College, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council, and the Rhythm Foundation. These harmonious relations help CAC fulfill their co-presenting mission to the community.

In 2018, Executive and Artistic Director Jose Elias was recognized by the Knight Foundation as a Knights Art Champion, which allowed him to donate $10,000 to CAC for the production of the 2019 season of events. In 2019, Afro Roots Fest was named “Best Music Festival” by the Miami New Times in weekly’s “Best of Miami” edition. Organizers produced a “Virtual Fest” successfully live streamed from the North Beach Bandshell for the first time ever in September of 2020.

An all-new membership program launched in March of 2021, just in time for the latest season of events, the 23rd overall.

For more information, please visit CommunityArtsandCulture.org

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com


Afro Roots Fest Miami Beach ft. Fatoumata Diawara and Noura Mint Seymali April 6 at North Beach Bandshell

MEDIA ALERT

Miami Beach, FL – March 13, 2019 – Next month’s Afro Roots Fest concert on Miami Beach will celebrate the feminine spirit of world music with a double bill of African chanteuses and a team of local dancers. Mauritanian Griot Noura Mint Seymali and Malian singer / guitarist FatoumataDiawara will perform at the North Beach Bandshell (7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141) on April 6, 2019, as will the African Watoto Dance Theatre. This is the first official concert of the Afro Roots Fest’s 21st season; doors open at 6:30 p.m. Pre-sale tickets are now available for $28 online through bit.ly/ARFMB19, and will be $35 at the door; all ages are welcome.  

This event is being co-presented with MDC Live Arts and the Rhythm Foundation, and is made possible with the support of Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Department of Cultural Affairs, the Doris Duke Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the City of Miami Beach Cultural Arts Council.

WHO: Fatoumata Diawara and Noura Mint Seymali

WHAT: Afro Roots Fest Miami Beach

WHEN: Saturday, April 6, 2019, 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: North Beach Bandshell, 7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141

TICKETS: $28 online now; $35 at the door

Full press release available here; high resolution images and videos are available. For more information, please  visit www.CommunityArtsandCulture.org or call 305.672.5202.

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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE
Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. (CAC) is a Miami-based non-profit organization that fosters an appreciation and understanding of a vast assortment of arts and cultures through workshops, lectures and artistic performances in local communities for individuals of all ages and social backgrounds.

In addition to the joint venture with the Little Haiti Community Center called Let the Children Have Music, and the ongoing World Music Tuesdays series at the Wynwood Yard, CAC co-produces the Roots in the Schools program, which brings music to Miami-area schools.

For more information, please visit www.communityartsandculture.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com


The Afro Future of World Music is Female!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 6 Afro Roots Fest Miami Beach Concert a Celebration of Women in World Music  

Community Arts and Culture, MDC Live Arts, and the Rhythm Foundation present Noura Mint Seymali, Fatoumata Diawara and the African Watoto Dance Theatre at the North Beach Bandshell April 6

Miami Beach, FL – January 16, 2019 – The Afro Roots Fest concert planned for Miami Beach will be all about the feminine spirit of world music, featuring a double bill of African chanteuses and a team of local dancers. Mauritanian Griot Noura Mint Seymali and Malian singer / guitarist Fatoumata Diawara will perform at the North Beach Bandshell (7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141) on April 6, 2019, as will the African Watoto Dance Theatre. This is the first official concert of the Afro Roots Fest’s 21st season; doors open at 6:30 p.m. Pre-sale tickets are now available for $28 online through bit.ly/ARFMB19, and will be $35 at the door; all ages are welcome.  

“For 20 years, Afro Roots Fest has brought the finest in traditional and contemporary African music to South Florida,” says Jose Elias, festival founder and executive director of Community Arts and Culture (CAC). “This year, you can add futuristic to the repertoire as the festival will showcase two extraordinary female artists in Noura Mint and Fatoumata. We are excited about having the Watoto dancers present once again.”

Seymali is one of Mauritania’s foremost musical emissaries, and is known for applying the ancient musical traditions of the griot with a savvy contemporary aesthetic. Faithful to her Moorish roots, her sound is led by the raw music of the azawan, a word in Hassaniya that refers to the ensemble of traditional instruments in Moorish culture; the ardinetidinit, guitar, and t’beul. She has recently collaborated with Damon AlbarnBaaba MaalTinariwenSpoekMathamboOumou Sangare and Shabazz Palaces, and appeared at major music festivals throughout the globe.
 
Born to Malian parents in Ivory Coast, Diawara is also a social activist and actor with an acclaimed movie credit (Timbuktu, 2014). Her music combines electric guitar lines with the ancient African strings of the Kora and kamel ngoni, and a drum kit blended with the timeless rhythms of traditional percussion. She’s touring in support of her latest release called Fenfo (meaning “something to say”), which is Grammy-nominated and features original songs that cover such timeless subjects as respect, humility, love, migration, family, and how to build a better world for our children. The release made the New York Times and President Barack Obama’s “Best of 2018” list, as well as the year-end lists in MOJOThe GuardianThe Sunday Times, and fRoots. She has also enjoyed several recent high-profile collaborations (Albarn, Herbie HancockSnarkyPuppyLed Zeppelin’s John Paul Jones) and festival appearances.  

The African Watoto Dance Theatre is comprised of dancers from many genres of the African diaspora. The company’s repertoire includes original choreography in traditional West African dances, and Afro-fusion of modern and contemporary, Haitian folklore, Caribbean, Congolese Soukous, and storytelling. The company promotes the African arts specifically for the local communities that do not have access to an authentic cultural experience.

This event is being co-presented with MDC Live Arts and the Rhythm Foundation, and is made possible with the support of Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Department of Cultural Affairs, the Doris Duke Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the City of Miami Beach Cultural Arts Council.

High resolution images and videos are available. For more information, please visit www.CommunityArtsandCulture.org or call 305.672.5202.

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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE
Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. (CAC) is a Miami-based non-profit organization that fosters an appreciation and understanding of a vast assortment of arts and cultures through workshops, lectures and artistic performances in local communities for individuals of all ages and social backgrounds.
In addition to the joint venture with the Little Haiti Community Center called Let the Children Have Music, and the ongoing World Music Tuesdays series at the Wynwood Yard, CAC co-produces the Roots in the Schools program, which brings music to Miami-area schools.
For more information, please visit www.communityartsandculture.org.
 
ABOUT MDC LIVE ARTS
Miami Dade College (MDC) is proud to be the home of MDC Live Arts: Miami’s most eclectic performing arts series. Created in 1990 as Cultura del Lobo, MDC Live Arts has a celebrated history of bringing extraordinary national and international performing artists to Miami. The annual series presents today’s most exciting artists and designs meaningful engagement between these artists, the students of MDC, and the greater community. MDC Live Arts seeks artists from across the globe who push boundaries and honor traditions relevant to Miami’s diverse community, and aims to offer audiences opportunities to discover new ideas, perspectives and forms of expression
More details: mdclivearts.org.
 
ABOUT RHYTHM FOUNDATION
Founded in 1988, The Rhythm Foundation, is a not-for-profit cultural organization that is a foremost presenter of international music in the US. The Rhythm Foundation has presented concerts, festivals and events featuring over 800 established and innovative artists from around the world. Special focus is given to those cultures connecting to South Florida audiences. In 2015 The Rhythm Foundation began year-round management of the North Beach Bandshell amphitheater for the City of Miami Beach.
Learn more at www.rhythmfoundation.com.


MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com


Road to Afro Roots Begins in Jupiter on January 25-26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Road to Afro Roots Fest 21 Begins at Guanabanas in Jupiter on January 25-26

Colombia’s Grupo Barrio Abajo, Cuba’s Cortadito and the Republic of Congo’s Toto Omana open the third decade of one of South Florida’s longest-running music festivals

Jupiter, FL – November 27, 2018 – The 21st iteration of the Afro Roots Fest will pick up right where it left off – taking the music directly to the people, instead of having them travel to one signature event as in year’s past. The kickoff event will again take place at Guanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar (960 N Highway A1A, Jupiter, Florida 33477) over the span of two days. Grupo Barrio Abajo opens the festivities Friday, January 25, 2018 with a 21 and over performance beginning at 9 p.m. The following day, Saturday, January 26, Cortadito (4 to 7 p.m., all ages welcome) and Toto Omana (9 p.m., 21 and over) round out the Road to Afro Roots lineup.

“It gives me great joy to start the journey to the Afro Roots Fest by presenting these three diverse groups at what is Palm Beach’s premiere live music venue,” says Jose Elias, founder and executive director of Community Arts and Culture (CAC). “We are excited to bring the Jupiter music-loving community a slice of the Caribbean and some amazing sounds from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Fans will love the brilliant crossover artist that is Toto Omana.” Elias is a guitarist / tres player who performs with the Spam Allstars, and his own groups Cortadito and the Nag Champayons. He is also a producer and Grammy-nominated musician and recording artist.

Group Barrio Abajo’s aim is to raise international awareness of the folkloric musical heritage of the Caribbean Colombia. They present styles such as cumbia, bullerengue, porro, chandé and more than thirty other unparalleled musical rhythms. Globally, their home country is known for cumbia and vallenato, but these are just two pieces from their puzzle of musical heritage. Barrio Abajo’s professional musicians intend to change this perception. Learn more about them here: www.facebook.com/grupobarrioabajo.

Cortadito’s specialty is performing Cuban music from the early 20th century, which transports listeners to a time when Trio Matamoros and Ignacio Piniero ruled the Cuban music world.  The band, who recently released a new EP of music called Canciones de Julio, faithfully performs standards in the traditional stylings called Son MontunoGuarachaBoleroNengon, and Bolero Son. Cortadito is occasionally is backed by a variety of guest musicians, which gives the group a sound reminiscent of the Buena Vista Social Club. Learn more at www.CortaditoSon.com.

The singer / songwriter / guitarist from Kinshasa, Republic of Congo Omana is primarily influenced by Franco and OK Jazz. His music combines African Soukous with American R&B, funk, and soul. Toto speaks more than 12 languages, and also sings in Swahili, Mandingo, English, Spanish, and French, and appeared as a guest on the Grammy-nominated group, Conjunto Progreso’s record Master Sessions Descarga & Son. He is set to release a full-length set on Afro Roots Recordings in 2019, which is being produced by Elias.

“We’re happy to able to continue building on this wonderful musical relationship with Guanabanas and Roots Music, Inc., and continue to make the festival accessible to world music fans in Palm Beach,” adds Elias. The festival will also feature a variety of local and international acts, and is being held at venues throughout South Florida. For more information, please visit www.AfroRootsFest.com or call 561.747.8878.

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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE

Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. (CAC) is a Miami-based non-profit organization that fosters an appreciation and understanding of a vast assortment of arts and cultures through workshops, lectures and artistic performances in local communities for individuals of all ages and social backgrounds.

In addition to the joint venture with the Little Haiti Community Center called Let the Children Have Music, and the ongoing World Music Tuesdays series at the Wynwood Yard, CAC co-produces the Roots in the Schools program, which brings music to Miami-area schools.

For more information, please visit www.communityartsandculture.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

 


Afro Roots Fest Moves to Key Largo June 2

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Afro Roots Fest’s 20th Anniversary Celebration Concludes in Key Largo on June 2nd

Concert at Murray Nelson Center near mile marker 102 to feature diverse array of four local and international world music acts

Key Largo, FL – May 16, 2018 – Following three days of events in Key West, the 20th Afro Roots World Music Festival travels back up U.S. 1 to the Murray Nelson Center (102050 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037) for it’s final concert Saturday, June 2, 2018. Live acts will include Sanba Zao(Haiti), Toto Omana (Congo), Los Herederos (Cuba) and the 305 Street Band (Miami). Tickets – available online at http://bit.ly/ARWMFKL – are $20, children 12 and under are free, and seniors, students and military personnel with ID are $10. Please note that the full price will be charged without ID at the door. The event runs 3 to 11 p.m.

“It’s been an amazing six-month celebration and we are excited about our final event in Key Largo,” says Jose Elias, founder and executive director of Community Arts and Culture (CAC). “Sanba Zao is a dynamic performer and it’s only fitting that he closes our show in Key Largo, being that he headlined our first show back in January in Jupiter.” Elias is a guitarist with the Spam Allstars, and plays the tres in his group Cortadito. He is also a producer and Grammy nominated musician and recording artist.

Born Louis Lesly Marcelin, Sanba Zao is a master drummer and Haitian roots music legend. He is also a professor at L’Ecole National des Arts, Haiti’s national arts school, and has devoted his life to teaching and promoting the culture and music of Haiti. Marcelin runs an elementary school called the Bazilo Ecole Communautairei, which was one of the first to reopen after the 2010 earthquake that devastated his home country. Sanba Zao has also sings and tours with Lakou Mizik, and performed with other Haitian groups such as Group SaFoula Jazz, and Djakata.

Toto Omana is a singer / songwriter / guitarist from Kinshasa, Republic of Congo. Influenced by Franco and OK Jazz, his music combines African Soukous  with American R&B, funk, and soul. Toto speaks more than 12 languages, and sings in Swahili, Mandingo, English, Spanish, and French. Toto appeared as a guest on the Grammy-nominated group, Conjunto Progreso’s record Master Sessions Descarga & Son. He’ll release a full-length set on Afro Roots Recordings in 2019, which will be produced by Elias.

Los Herederos, winners of the 2016 Miami New Times award for “Best Latin Band”, are the brainchild of Cuban percussionist and vocalist Philbert Almenteros. They perform in a very stripped down drum and chant format comprised of percussion-heavy rumbaguaguanco, and yambu numbers, which are all deeply rooted Afro-Cuban stylings. Philbert’s great grandmother was one of the founding members of the world-renowned Afro-Cuban folklore group Clave y Guaguanco.

The 305 Street Band are a brass-heavy ensemble probably best known for their on-court performances with the NBA as the Miami HEAT Street Band. They perform pop, Latin, hip-hop, R&B, and everything in between, as well as dance to every song, performing intricate routines and even providing crowd interaction, from sing-a-longs, to limbos. The band is led by David Burgos, a trumpet player and member of another prominent Miami group, Elastic Bond.

In addition to the live music performances, there will also be dance and percussion workshops earlier in the day for all age, as well as arts and crafts vendors, as well as food and beverages available for purchase.

This 20th iteration of the festival, which is curated and by the non-profit organization CAC, features more than 50 international and local acts from all over the world, and is being held at venues from Jupiter to Key West.

Brought to you by the Monroe County Tourism Development Council, and with the support of the Friends of the Key Largo Cultural Center and The Tank Brewing Company. For more information, please visit www.AfroRootsFest.com or call 305.294.4641.
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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE

Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. (CAC) is a Miami-based non-profit organization that fosters an appreciation and understanding of a vast assortment of arts and cultures through workshops, lectures and artistic performances in local communities for individuals of all ages and social backgrounds.

CAC also produced the A Day at the Beach Concert Series, which enjoyed a five- year run, in addition to co-producing the Roots in the Schools program, which brings music to Miami-area schools.

For more information, please visit www.communityartsandculture.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com


Afro Roots Key West May 17-19

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Afro Roots Fest Moves to Key West for 20thAnniversary Celebration May 17-19

The Studios of Key West and The Green Parrot host multi-day celebration featuring live music, lectures and workshops

Key West, FL – May 4, 2018 – After an extremely successful and well-received Monroe County debut April 28 at the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, the Afro Roots World Music Festival continues down U.S. 1 for a stop in Key West May 17 through 19, 2018. Haiti’s Papaloko and Loray Mistik and Senegal’s Morikeba Kouyate will perform at The Studios of Key West (533 Eaton St, Key West, FL 33040) on Saturday, May 19, 2018, beginning at 8 p.m.  Tickets are available here: http://bit.ly/2n1G4PC. The concert will be preceded by a free, family-friendly lecture and workshop to be delivered by Papaloko and Kouyate, also at The Studios of Key West, on Friday, May 18

Born Jude Thegenus in Port Au Prince, Papaloko is also a visual artist, and a voice for social justice and Haitian activism. His paintings are a product falling into a deep meditative state, and then allowing himself to be possessed by a spirit whose purpose is to paint strokes of life onto canvas. He at one point studied to become a Roman Catholic priest, but his artistic journey led him to music with at first the Rara band Koleksyon Kazak, and then with the vodou pop band Loray Mistik. In 1999, Papaloko founded the Jakmel Art Gallery, Cultural Center and Caribbean Backyard, a center for cultural diversity, awareness, positivity and creation in Miami.

Kouyate is a native of Senegal and an Afro Roots Fest veteran, having performed several times, most recently in Miami Beach on April 7. He is a trained Griot, meaning he maintains a tradition of West African oral history through songHis instrument of choice is the Kora, a hand-made 20-string, harp-like work of art which sounds otherworldly, and which he wields powerfully in his melodic storytelling. Click https://youtu.be/n0O4eqU-wcA to see him in action at the festival’s 16th edition.

In addition to the concert and the workshop / lecture, Miami Cuban Tomas Diaz will perform at The Green Parrot (601 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040) during a free 21 and over kickoff event Thursday, May 17. Born in Matanzas, Cuba, Diaz is best known as a member of the Spam Allstars who is now a solo artist. He spent his teenage years captivated by the sounds of rock and roll, dreaming of a life in the United States where he would be able to express himself freely through music. He has collaborated with world-class musicians including, Bruce SpringsteenCelia CruzClarence ClemmonsPhishSnoop DoggChayanne, and Ricky Martin. His latest single is called “Esta en Ti”, which he will likely perform for music fans at The Green Parrot.

“Afro Roots Fest and Monroe County seem to be a great fit,” says Jose Elias, founder and executive director of Community Arts and Culture (CAC). “We appreciate all the love and support given to our event in Islamorada, and look forward to offering the same sort of musical and cultural exchange and experience to our friends in the Conch Republic.” Elias performed with his Cuban Son Montuno outfit Cortadito and Tropidelic / Afrogalactic funk band the Nag Champayons in Islamorada.

This 20th iteration of the festival, which is curated and by the non-profit organization CAC, features more than 50 international and local acts from all over the world, and is being held at  venues from Jupiter to Key West. Next up is the conclusion of Afro Roots Fest in Key Largo at the Murray Nelson Centeron June 2 featuring Sanba ZaoToto OmanaLos Herederos and the 305 Street Band.

Made possible with the support of the Monroe County Tourism Development Council, the Ambrosia Key West, The Studios of Key West, and The Green Parrot. For all the latest, please visit www.AfroRootsFest.com or call 305.296.0458.
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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE

Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. (CAC) is a Miami-based non-profit organization that fosters an appreciation and understanding of a vast assortment of arts and cultures through workshops, lectures and artistic performances in local communities for individuals of all ages and social backgrounds.

CAC also produced the A Day at the Beach Concert Series, which enjoyed a five- year run, in addition to co-producing the Roots in the Schools program, which brings music to Miami-area schools.

For more information, please visit www.communityartsandculture.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com


Afro Roots Fest Islamorada Coming 4/28

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Afro Roots Fest Travels to Islamorada for 20th Anniversary Celebration April 28

Morada Bay Arts and Cultural District hosts all-day event featuring live music, African dance and percussion workshop, instrument show and tell, vendors and more

Islamorada, FL – April 10, 2018 – The Afro Roots World Music Festival travels to the Florida Keys for the first time in its 20-year history this month. Islamorada’s Morada Bay Arts and Cultural District will be the scene of the celebration on Saturday, April 28, 2018, and will feature live music by the Nag ChampayonsCortaditoGrupo Barrio Abajo, and myriad family-friendly activities designed to enrich and entertain. The district is located at 151 Morada Way, Islamorada, FL 33036. Event is open to the public of all ages; suggested donation is $10.

“Although some of the effects of Hurricane Irma are still visible throughout the Florida Keys, the area is open for business and we intend to celebrate joyfully and accordingly,” says Jose Elias, founder and executive director of Community Arts and Culture (CAC). “The Keys are a national treasure and we are excited and proud to be bringing the Afro Roots Fest to Islamorada April 28. We look forward to sharing the wonderful African diaspora with residents and out-of-the-area travelers alike.”

Miami’s Afro Galactic / Tropidelic funksters the Nag Champayons blend African, Caribbean and North American influences into a unique and extremely danceable sound. Cortadito specializes in performing Cuban Son Montunomusic similar to the Buena Vista Social Club, effectively transporting listeners back to a time when Trio Matamoros and Ignacio Piniero ruled the airwaves. Grupo Barrio Abajo aims to raise international awareness of the folkloric musical heritage of the Caribbean Colombia; styles such as cumbiabullerengueporrochandé and more than thirty other unparalleled musical rhythms.

This year’s edition of the festival, which is curated and run by the non-profit organization CAC, features more than 50 international and local acts from all over the world, in venues from Jupiter to Key West. Up next are two very special events scheduled for Key West May 17 through 19, and Key Largo on June 2.

The event is being made possible through the generous support of the Florida Keys Tourism Development CouncilKeys ICE (Islamorada Community Entertainment), the Morada Way Arts and Cultural District, and the Florida Keys Brewing Company.

For more information, the full performer lineup and ticket links, please visit www.afrorootsfest.com or call 305.916.5521.
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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE

Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. (CAC) is a Miami-based non-profit organization that fosters an appreciation and understanding of a vast assortment of arts and cultures through workshops, lectures and artistic performances in local communities for individuals of all ages and social backgrounds.

CAC also produced the A Day at the Beach Concert Series, which enjoyed a five- year run, in addition to co-producing the Roots in the Schools program, which brings music to Miami-area schools.

For more information, please visit www.communityartsandculture.org.

 

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

 


Sun Ra Arkestra in Concert on Miami Beach 4/7

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sun Ra Arkestra and Morikeba Kouyate Mark 20 Years of the Afro Roots World Music Festival April 7

Event at North Beach Bandshell begins at 7 p.m. and is open to all ages; tickets available online

Miami Beach, FL – March 13, 2018 – The Afro Roots World Music Festivalcomes full circle for its 20th anniversary celebration, featuring  Sun Ra Arkestra in concert on Saturday, April 7, 2018 at the North Beach Bandshell (7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL, 33141).  The music begins at 7 p.m.with special guest Morikeba Kouyate. Tickets are available online at bit.ly/2BtQdOq. This year’s edition of the festival, which is curated and run by the non-profit organization Community Arts and Culture (CAC), features more than 50 international and local acts from all over the world, in venues from Jupiter to Key West.

“The whole concept of the Afro Roots Fest initially came together as a tribute to Sun Ra himself,” says Jose Elias, founder and executive director of CAC. “I had just seen the film A Joyful Noise and it inspired me so much that I put together a band called the Afro Polyphonic Space Orchestra and created the festival around it.”  Fast-forward twenty years, and the tribute has evolved into a successful yearly musical and cultural community program.

Directed by alto saxophonist Marshall Allen, the Sun Ra Arkestra are musical torch-bearers for the late, great keyboardist and big-band innovator born Herman Poole Blount. The Arkestra carry on the traditions set by the cosmic philosopher, complete with full costumes and the “Songbook from Saturn”. They maintain a busy touring schedule and continue to release albums, beginning with 1999’s Song for the Sun. Learn more at www.sunraarkestra.com.

Kouyate, a native of Senegal and an Afro Roots Fest favorite, is a Kora master and a trained Griot, meaning he maintains a tradition of West African oral history through songHis handmade instrument is a captivating 20-string, harp-like beauty, which he wields powerfully in his melodic storytelling. Click https://youtu.be/n0O4eqU-wcA to view a clip of him at the festival’s 16th incarnation.

Named one of “South Florida’s Ten Best Music Festivals” by the Miami New Times in August,  the festival will continue the celebration of its 20th anniversary with a journey into the Florida Keys for the first time on April 28 at the Morada Way Arts and Cultural District (151 Morada Way, Islamorada, FL 33060.

The Miami Beach show is made possible through the support of the MiamiDade Department of Cultural Affairs, the Miami Beach Cultural ArtsCouncil, and is being presented in part by MDC Live Arts.

For more information, ticket links and the full performer lineup, please visit www.afrorootsfest.com or call 305.672.5202.

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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE

Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. (CAC) is a Miami-based non-profit organization that fosters an appreciation and understanding of a vast assortment of arts and cultures through workshops, lectures and artistic performances in local communities for individuals of all ages and social backgrounds.

CAC also produced the A Day at the Beach Concert Series, which enjoyed a five- year run, in addition to co-producing the Roots in the Schools program, which brings music to Miami-area schools.

For more information, please visit www.communityartsandculture.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com


Road to Afro Roots Coral Gables

MEDIA ALERT

Road to Afro Roots Concert Scheduled for February 16 at Books & Books ft. Electric Piquete

Coral Gables, FL – February 7, 2018 – The 20th anniversary celebration for the Afro Roots World Music Festival February 16, 2018 at Books & Books (265 Aragon Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134) with a three-set Road to Afro Roots peformance by Electric Piquete. The music begins at 7:30 p.m.and the show is free and open to the public.

Electric Piquete is a Latin funk / fusion band from Miami best known for its fiery originals and inventive interpretations of Latin and jazz standards. A powerfully-tight drums / bass / guitar / keys / congas rhythm section sets the groove for a fiery horn section, taking listeners on an Afro-Caribbean journey of sound. They were named “Best Latin Band” by the Miami New Times in 2009 and 2015.

The Miami-based non-profit Community Arts & Culture is hosting our additional warm-up dates in Miami and Miami Beach before presenting the main event of Sun Ra Arkestra and Morikeba Kouyate April 7 at the Miami Beach Bandshell (tickets: bit.ly/2BtQdOq). Papaloko and Morikeba Kouyate will perform at the Studios of Key West on May 19, and more will be announced shortly.

Miami New Times dubbed Afro Roots one of “South Florida’s Ten Best Music Festivals in August. For more information about the festival, please visit www.afrorootsfest.com or call 786.218.6854.

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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE

Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. (CAC) is a Miami-based non-profit organization that fosters an appreciation and understanding of a vast assortment of arts and cultures through workshops, lectures and artistic performances in local communities for individuals of all ages and social backgrounds.

For more information, visit www.communityartsandculture.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com


Road to Afro Roots Begins in Jupiter

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Afro Roots World Music Festival Launches 20th Anniversary Celebration at Guanabanas 

Free Road to Afro Roots Kickoff Concerts represent festival’s first events in Palm Beach County, feature Sanba Zao, Cortadito and the Nag Champayons


Jupiter, FL – January 8, 2018 – 
Fine China may be the traditional 20th anniversary swag, but this year, Community Arts and Culture will be giving fans the gift of world music in three counties. The Afro Roots World Music Festival will launch its 20th edition Friday, January 26th at Guanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar (960 North Highway A1A, Jupiter, FL 33477), featuring two days of live world music. This year’s edition of the festival will feature more than 50 international and local acts from all over the world, in venues located as far south as Key West.

Haiti’s Sanba Zao will perform Friday, January 26, beginning at 9 p.m.; Cuban folkloric masters Cortadito plays 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, January 27, with Miami’s Afrogalactic / Tropidelic funksters the Nag Champayons performing that same day at 9 p.m. All three performances are free and open to the public, with 21 and over welcome to the evening sets.

Named one of “South Florida’s Ten Best Music Festivals” by the Miami New Times in August, Afro Roots will also showcase Sun Ra Arkestra and Morikeba Kouyate April 7 at the Miami Beach Bandshell (tickets: bit.ly/2BtQdOq), Papaloko at the Studios of Key West on May 19, and more to be announced.

“20 years is an incredible milestone and our intention to produce a festival that pushes the boundaries begins with a very special back-to-back production in North Palm Beach,” says Jose Elias, founder and executive director of the Miami-based non-profit Community Arts & Culturethe organization responsible for the Afro Roots Fest. “From there, Afro Roots will travel all the way to the Florida Keys throughout the course of the next six months, making stops in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties as well.”

“We’re excited about bringing the world music experience to our music fans here in the Jupiter area,” says Guanabanas talent buyer Matt Cahur. “Given the popularity of our Noche Latina series, the past successes of Cortadito and the Nags here at Guanabanas, and the always-positive reception to our roots and reggae events, I believe Afro Roots Fest will be a smash.” Cahur also heads Roots MusicInc., a Jupiter-based, 20-year music management, production and promotions company.

Master drummer and Haitian roots music legend Sanba Zao, born Louis Lesly Marcelin, is also a professor at L’Ecole National des Arts, Haiti’s national arts school. He has devoted his life to teaching and promoting the culture and music of Haiti, and to this end, runs an elementary school called the Bazilo Ecole Communautairei, which was one of the first to reopen after the devastating 2010 earthquake. Sanba Zao has also worked with Group Sa, Foula Jazz, and Djakata.

Cortadito’s specialty is performing traditional Cuban music from the early 20th century. The group transports listeners back to a time when Trio Matamoros and Ignacio Piniero ruled the Cuban music world.  They faithfully perform standards in the stylings known as Son MontunoGuarachaBoleroNengon, and Bolero Son. Cortadito is occasionally is backed by a variety of guest musicians, which gives the group a sound reminiscent of the Buena Vista Social Club. Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/Cortadito-295653443871468.

The Nag Champayons are Miami’s standard bearers in terms of psychedelic music, showcasing their unique creativity, messaging and collaborative since their inception in 2003. A heady and infectious single “Brazilian LSD”, issued in 2016, came with a visually stunning video, and served as a follow up to 2015’s masterful Rising Sounds of a Sinking City, a darkly serious and ominous 21-minute environmentally-conscious theme. They continue to play local and regional music festivals, and are currently in the process of readying new music for release. For more details, visit www.NagChampayons.com.

For more information, please visit www.afrorootsfest.com or call 786.218.6854.

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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE

Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. (CAC) is a Miami-based non-profit organization that fosters an appreciation and understanding of a vast assortment of arts and cultures through workshops, lectures and artistic performances in local communities for individuals of all ages and social backgrounds.

For more information, visit www.communityartsandculture.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com