Afro Roots Fest “Miami Week” visits Little Havana, Doral, and North Miami April 16, 20, and 22

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Free workshops and live music performances to be held at the Koubeck Center, Doral Yard, and Oak Grove Park during the touring festival’s 25th anniversary

Miami, FL – April 4, 2023 – One of South Florida’s longest-running music festivals will host three Miami-based events during one week’s time. This year’s edition of Afro Roots Fest is the 25th overall, and the nomadic event series plans a workshop at the Koubek Center in Little Havana on Sunday, April 16, 2 p.m., live music at the Doral Yard Thursday, April 20 at 7 p.m., and live music plus a DJ at Oak Grove Park on Saturday, April 22, beginning at 3 p.m. All events are free and open to the public of all ages, with and RSVP being required for the Koubek and Oak Grove events due to space limitations.

“These three events get to the heart of our mission, which is to offer the community a wide diversity of programming,” says Afro Roots Fest founder and Cortadito vocalist, tres player, and bandleader Jose Elias. “I’m proud to offer it in partnership with the wonderful Miami-Dade County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Open SpacesMiami Dade College, and Miami Light Project.” Elias is also the executive director of the Miami nonprofit Community Arts and Culture (CAC), the organization behind Afro Roots Fest. 

First up is the Inheritants Project: Afro Roots 2023 workshops and jam session taking place at 2705 SW 3rd Street, Miami, FL 33135 on Sunday, April 16, at 2 p.m., and presented by Community Arts and Culture and the Koubek Center. Launched in 2012, the Inheritants Project is the youth component of CAC, and is an Afro-Indigenous music and dance youth program.

Planned activities include a sekere-making class led by Eddie Osborne from Pan-African Arts, a ukelele class by Ameyal, the Afro-Mexican ensemble, a break dance class with Luis Junior Vitale, and a jam session with teaching artists including Lazaro “Tato” Alfonsorumbero, and one of the founders of the Cuban fusion legends Irakere. Since space is limited, RSVPs are required. RSVPs required online to bit.ly/ARFIP2023.  

Next, join Cortadito and Friends for an unforgettable evening of music on the Backyard Stage at the Doral Yard (8455 Northwest 53rd Street, Doral, FL 33178) on Thursday, April 20 beginning at 7 p.m. This one night only show will feature a variety of guest artists, and an expanded conjunto version of the band with an added horn section and percussionist. Since their origin ten years ago, Cortadito have become torchbearers of a pop culture phenomenon that is two centuries strong.

A traditional folk and acoustic band that focuses on performing one of the earliest styles of Cuban country music known as Son (pronounced sOwn), their sound can best be described as reminiscent of the famed Buena Vista Social Club.

Finally, master drummer and Haitian roots music legend Sanba Zao will perform at the Father Gerard Jean-Juste Community Center in Oak Grove Park (690 NE 159th St, Miami, FL 33162), along with the Senegalese Griot and Kora master Morikeba Kouyate beginning at 3 p.m. DJ Kumi will be on hand to spin records before and in between acts. Space is limited to the first 100 attendees who RSVP online at bit.ly/ARFNM2023.

Originating in 1999 at the now defunct Tobacco Road bar in Miami, Afro Roots Fest has been named one of the “10 Best Music Festivals in Miami” by the Miami New Times and crowned the “Best Music Festival” in the 2019 “Best of Miami” issue. Past performers include Amadou & MariamSun Ra ArkestraAlsarahFatoumata DiawaraFulu MizikiSalif KeitaVieux Farka ToureToubab Krewe, and Roberto Torres, among many others. Since 2018, the festival has become a nomadic affair that now includes separate events in markets such as Gainesville, North Miami, Doral, Hollywood, Islamorada, and Key West.

More information about the festival is available at AfroRootsFest.com

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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE

Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. is a Miami-based nonprofit 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. The organization is celebrating 20 years of serving the community in 2022. Their signature event, Afro Roots Fest, is embarking on its 25th season of programming.

For more information, please visit CACMiami.org.

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


Amadou & Mariam Headline Afro Roots Fest Miami Beach March 14

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The “blind couple from Mali” play the Miami Beach Bandshell with Cortadito and special guests Afro-Cuban singer Aymée Nuviola and Brazilian percussion collective Miamibloco, plus DJ Le Spam

Miami Beach, FL – February 8, 2023 – Two of Africa’s most popular artists, the Malian husband and wife duo of Amadou Bagayoko and wife Mariam Doumbia, will launch their 2023 North American tour during the opening date of Afro Roots Fest, the award-winning nomadic world music festival now in its 25th year, on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, beginning at 6 p.m. at the Miami Beach Bandshell (7275 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33141). 

The supporting act Cortadito, Miami’s answer to the Buena Vista Social Club and the Miami New Times’ “Best Latin Act” for 2019, will bring their traditional folk sound and invite a few special guests on stage, while acclaimed DJ Le Spam spins before and between acts. The host for the show is legendary broadcaster George Collinet, who voices the Peabody award-winning Afropop Worldwide syndicated world music radio program. Advance tickets are $41.50 and now available online at bit.ly/ARFMB2023. All ages welcome.

“Twenty-five years is certainly a long time, and I feel honored and blessed to have been able to present such a diverse range of acts throughout the journey,” says Afro Roots Fest founder and Cortadito vocalist, tres player, and bandleader Jose Elias. “I am grateful for all of the support, especially from our friends at the Rhythm Foundation, and I am very excited about having Amadou & Mariam open what promises to be another amazing Afro Roots concert season.”

For the past forty-odd years, Amadou & Mariam have managed to joyfully combine their love story with a musical career while becoming, discreetly but surely, the most famous ambassadors for Malian music, and African music, all around the world. They have collaborated with Damon Albarn of Blur, Manu Chao, Santigold, TV On The Radio, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. The duo have played the world’s biggest festivals, from Coachella to Glastonbury, and opened for huge bands such as Coldplay and the Scissor Sisters. Their latest release is called La Confusion from 2017, for which they are just now getting to tour for due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“From the very beginning, we have always wanted to mix our own music with great, talented musicians,” says Amadou. “We wanted to break barriers and open our ears to a new sound, to bring Malian music to a lot of people around the world in a form they would understand and enjoy. “We love what we do,” adds Mariam, “and we seek to make people happy with our music, help humanitarian causes and share positive messages about the good work being done by people in every corner of the world.” 

Since its origins ten years ago, the evolution of Cortadito has led them to become one of the torch bearers of a pop culture phenomenon that is two centuries strong. A traditional folk and acoustic band that focuses on performing one of the earliest styles of Cuban country music known as Son (pronounced sOwn), their sound can best be described as reminiscent of the famed Buena Vista Social Club.

Through their many interpretations of traditional and original songs, this dynamic ensemble leads audiences through an audio experience referred to as “The Guajiro Triangle” by group co-founder and producer Elias, which alludes to the three cities of Miami, Havana, and Santiago, representing the group’s origins and revealing their musical influences.

Aymée Nuviola is a Cuban-born singer, songwriter, national recording artist and actor. Known for her witty improvisations and “rumbera” stage presence, Nuviola’s fans know her as “La Sonera del Mundo” (The Singer of the World). Last year, she was honored to be the first Latina invited to sing during a special Tropical music segment on the 64th Grammy Awards telecast.

In November, 2022, she won her second Latin Grammy, for Live at Marciac, her first duo album, recorded with jazz pianist and childhood friend Gonzalo Rubalcaba. As an actor, Nuviola is best known for playing the adult Celia Cruz in the Spanish soap opera “Celia,” which aired on Telemundo and Netflix and was viewed in 45 countries.

Founded by Brian Potts in 2017, Miamibloco turns Afro-Brazilian music and rhythms into the cultural glue that binds Miami’s unique diverse communities together. Their mission is to help people connect, learn, grow, and thrive for a more joyful and equitable Miami through performance and education.They host the seasonal Brazilian Social, as well as beginner and intermediate percussion workshops and classes throughout the Magic City. The organization’s performance group, Bateria Saideira, will join Cortadito on stage. 

Director of Community Operations Suom Francis offers: “At Miamibloco everyone has an instrument and each one is as important as the next for collective sound. Experiencing these subtle empowering lessons consistently instills a sense of self-worth, and locates us inside our community in a way that is accessible, less charged, or intimidating.” 

Miami based DJ Le Spam, founder of Spam Allstars, is also known for his eclectic vinyl collection. Born in Montreal, and raised in London and Bogota, he was exposed to a variety of music and cultures from an early age.  He specializes in rare and hard to find music. His expansive collection includes Latin, funk, Miami-bass, Haitian, jazz, and more. He began digging for records as he toured the world as the guitar player for Capitol recording artist Nil Lara and continued adding when he formed and toured extensively with his own band Spam Allstars.

Originating in 1999 at the now defunct Tobacco Road, the Afro Roots Fest has become one of the area’s longest-running music festivals. Named one of the “10 Best Music Festivals in Miami” by the Miami New Times, it was crowned the “Best Music Festival” in the 2019 “Best of Miami” issue. Past performers have included Sun Ra Arkestra, Alsarah, Fatoumata Diawara, Fulu Miziki, Salif Keita, Vieux Farka Toure, Toubab Krewe, and Roberto Torres, among many others. Since 2018, the event has become a nomadic affair that now includes separate concerts in markets such as Gainesville, Jupiter, Doral, Hollywood, Islamorada, and Key West.

Produced by Sean Barlow, Afropop Worldwide began its life 35 years ago as a weekly program on National Public Radio. Still the standard for both the curious and the connoisseur, it takes listeners on audio journeys to dynamic music capitals around the globe, and has introduced listeners to Ladysmith Black MambazoCesaria EvoraGilberto GilBaaba MaalKanda Bongo Man, and many, many others. Fans of the program are invited to a special meet-and-greet with Mr. Collinet at 6 p.m. on the day of show. 

The event is generously being supported by the Florida Department of Cultural Affairs, the City of Miami Beach, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Rhythm Foundation, and Urban Resource. For more information, visit AfroRootsFest.com.

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Amadou y Mariam inauguran el Afro Roots Fest de Miami Beach el 14 de marzo

La “pareja no vidente” de Malí tocará en el Miami Beach Bandshell junto a Cortadito y sus invitados y DJ Le Spam

Miami Beach, FL – 8 de febrero de 2023 – Amadou y Mariam, dos de los artistas africanos más populares del momento,empezarán su gira por Norteamérica, desde Miami. Esta pareja musical proveniente de Malí y conformadapor los esposos Amadou Bagayokoy Mariam Doumbia, será la encargada de inaugurar la nueva edición del Afro Roots Fest, reconocido evento musical que cumple 25 años.  Amadou y Mariam prenderán los motores del festival que arranca el martes 14 de marzo a las 6 p.m. en el Bandshell de Miami Beach (7275 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33141).

El grupo telonero Cortadito, la versión miamense de Buena Vista Social Club yelegido por el Miami New Times como “El mejor grupo latino de 2019”, traerá su sabroso y tradicional repertorio de música cubana, con algunos invitados especiales, mientras el aclamado DJ Le Spam soltará su mezcla musical, antes del show y entre los recesos. El anfitrión de la noche será el legendario locutor de radio George Collinet, director de Afropop Worldwide, programa de world music sindicado y ganador del premio Peabody. Los boletos cuestan $41.50 y pueden comprarse en  bit.ly/ARFMB2023.  Público de todas las edades es bienvenido.

“El haber organizado el festival Afro Roots por 25 años ha representado una gran oportunidad para nuestra organización y para mí personalmente como músico y como productor”, expresa José Elías, el fundador del festival, vocalista y tresero de Cortadito. “Estamos tan contentos de tener a Amadou y Mariam inaugurando su gira por EEUU desde el sur de Florida. Hace 15 años nuestros amigos de Rhythm Foundation los presentaron aquí y creo que es la primera vez que se presentan en el Bandshell de Miami Beach. Ciertamente será una noche muy especial”.

Durante 40 años Amadou y Mariam han sabido combinar de manera inteligente su vida musical y conyugal para convertirse en los más famosos embajadores de la música de Mali y África alrededor del mundo. El dúo maliense ha colaborado con artistas de la talla de Damon Albarn de la banda Blur, Manu Chao, Santigold, TV On The Radio,y the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. La pareja ha tocado en grandes festivales del mundo desde Coachella hasta Glastonbury, y han alternado con conocidas bandas como Coldplay y The Scissor Sisters. Su último disco se llama La confusión, grabado en 2017, el cual están promocionando actualmente debido a la pandemia del coronavirus.

“Desde que empezó nuestra carrera, siempre quisimos combinar nuestra música con la de otros talentosos artistas”, comenta Amadou. “Quisimos romper barreras y abrirnos a nuevos estilos musicales para llevar nuestros ritmos a la mayoría de gente alrededor del mundo”.  “Amamos lo que hacemos”, agrega Mariam, “buscamos hacer feliz al público, promover causas humanitarias y compartir mensajes positivos sobre las cosas buenas que hace la gente en cualquier lugar del mundo”.

Desde que debutaron en la escena musical hace una década, Cortadito se ha convertido en estandarte de un fenómeno de la cultura popular cubana que data de hace dos siglos. Esta banda que cultiva la música folclórica de Cuba se ha concentrado en explorar y desarrollar la esencia del Son y su sonido nos hace recordar el grupo Buena Vista Social Club.

A través de sus múltiples interpretaciones de música tradicional y canciones originales este conjunto dinámico conduce a la audiencia por una experiencia auditiva denominado el “Triangulo Guajiro” por su co fundador y productor José Elías, haciendo referencia a las tres ciudades, Miami, La Habana y Santiago que conforman su influencia musical.

Aymée Nuviola es conocida como “La Sonera del Mundo” por sus habilidades en la improvisación y su domino de los escenarios. La cantante, compositora, pianista y actriz nacida en Cuba posée un Grammy y dos Latin Grammy. El año pasado Aymée tuvo el honor de ser la primera mujer latina invitada a cantar durante un segmento especial dedicado a la música tropical durante la ceremonia televisada de la sexagésima cuarta entrega de los premios Grammy.

En noviembre del mismo año, la artista cubana obtuvo su segundo Latin Grammy con el álbum “Live in Marciac”, grabado en dúo con el conocido pianista internacional Gonzalo Rubalcaba. Como actriz, Aymée Nuviola es mejor conocida por interpretar a Celia Cruz en la telenovela “Celia” que fue transmitida por Telemundo y Netflix, y se vio en 45 países.

Fundada por Brian Potts en 2017, Miamibloco convierte la música y los ritmos brasileños en la pega cultural que une a las diversas comunidades de Miami. Su misión es ayudar a las personas a conectarse, aprender, crecer y prosperar para lograr un Miami más alegre y equitativo a través de la interpretación artística y la educación. El grupo presenta sus eventos dSociales Brasileños”, así como talleres y clases de percusión para principiantes e intermedio en Miami. Su grupo de performance, Batería Saideira, acompañará a Cortadito en la tarima.

El director de operaciones comunitarias Suom Francis afirma lo siguiente: “En Miamibloco todas las personas tienen un instrumento y cada uno es igual de importante para el sonido colectivo del grupo. Experimentar estas sutiles lecciones de empoderamiento infunde un sentido de autoestima y nos ubica dentro de nuestra comunidad de una manera que es accesible, menos cargada o intimidante”.

El DJ miamense Le Spam, fundador de Spam Allstars, es conocido por su excéntrica colección de discos en acetato. Tras nacer en Montreal y criarse en Londres y Bogotá, este DJ estuvo expuesto a una gran variedad de ritmos y culturas que se expresa en la música que programa. Su extensa colección de acetatos incluye Latin, funk, Miami-bass, Haitian, jazz, y mucho más. El DJ empezó a coleccionar discos mientras tocaba la guitarra para el cantautor Nil Lara y hacía giras mundiales junto al artista. Su colección se extendió, cuando empezó a hacer giras con su propia banda Spam Allstars.

Desde sus inicios en 1998 en el desaparecido y afamado club de Miami, Tobacco Road el Afro Roots Fest se ha convertido en uno de los festivales de mayor longevidad en el sur de Florida. Denominado como uno de los “10 Mejores Festivales de Música por Miami New Times, fue coronado como el Mejor Festival en la edición especial “Best of Miami” en 2019. Artistas que se han presentado en el Afro Roots Fest en el pasado incluyen  a Sun Ra Arkestra, Alsarah, Fatoumata Diawara, Fulu Miziki, Salif Keita, Vieux Farka Toure, Toubab Krewe, y Roberto Torres, entre muchos otros. Desde 2018 el festival se ha extendido con otras presentaciones y fechas a distintas ciudades como Gainesville, Jupiter, Doral, Hollywood, Islamorada y Cayo Hueso.

Producido por Sean Barlow, Afropop Worldwide comenzó hace 35 años como un programa semanal en National Public Radio. El programa transporta a los oyentes a lugares dinamicos de musica alrededor del mundo y ha presentado a su publico a artistas globales de la talla de Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Cesaria Evora, Gilberto Gil, Baaba Maal, Kanda Bongo Man y muchos otros. Los seguidores del programa están invitados a conocer al señor Collinet a las 6 p.m. el día del show.

El Festival Afro Roots cuenta con el apoyo de Florida Department of Cultural Affairs, la ciudad de Miami Beach, el Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Rhythm Foundation, y Urban Resource.

Para más información, visitar AfroRootsFest.com.

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

MEDIOS EN ESPAÑOL

Deborah Ramírez

786.877.2295

debbie@dramirezmedia.com


Afro Roots Fest Debuts in Broward at Hollywood ArtsPark Saturday, May 21, 4 p.m.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Free, all-ages show features Jesus Hidalgo, Philip Montalban, Gilmar Gomes, The Resolvers, Miamibloco and DJ Le Spam

May 9, 2022 – Hollywood, FL – The award-winning, multi-county Afro Roots Fest will be experiencing a series of firsts on Saturday, May 21, 2022: first concert in Broward County, City of Hollywood premiere, and maiden event at the Hollywood ArtsPark (1 North Young Circle, Hollywood, FL 33020). The free, all-ages internationally flavored show begins at 4 p.m. and features Jesus Hidalgo (Venezuela), Philip Montalbán (Nicaragua), Gilmar Gomes, (Brazil), The Resolvers (US), Miamibloco (Brazil), and DJ Le Spam (UK / Venezuela). 

“We are happy to finally be bringing our world music concert series to Broward, and especially to the wonderful venue that is the ArtsPark,” says Miami nonprofit organization Community Arts & Culture (CAC) Founder and Executive Director Jose Elias. “This concert would not be possible without the generous support of the Florida Division of Arts and Culture, the City of Hollywood, Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts, and the Florida Keys Brewing Company.” CAC has successfully produced 24 seasons of Afro Roots Fest concerts so far.

Jesus Hidalgo is a medicine music composer and singer, an activist for the rights of mother nature and the rights of animals, and a guardian of the ancestral legacy from Venezuela. He is a messenger of spiritual music, and music with a conscience, and his intentions are to harmonize mind, body, and soul. He was nominated for a “Best New Artist” Latin Grammy in 2013, and founded the ¡Todo el Mundo Dice AHO! concert series, which will return to Miami later this fall. More information can be found at JesusHidalgoMusic.com.

Afro-Latino Reggae artist Montalbán amusingly refers to the term African / English / Spanish to describe his long-standing presence in the music touring industry and to refer to the African and / or Caribbean presence largely located on the Atlantic coast in his home of Nicaragua. Based in a transnational figuring of ethnicity and music, the Afro-Nicaraguan musician calls what has been explained / profiteered / idealized as globalization as “the world getting closer.”

A multi-instrumentalist, producer, visual artist and percussionist based in Miami, Gilmar Gomes was raised on the music style of reggae Samba in Salvador de Bahia, Brazil. He’s toured the world and collaborated with artists like Angelique KidjoSantanaEnrique IglesiasPitbullHarry Belafonte, Rihanna, Shakira, PrinceGilberto GilMeshell Ndegeocello, the Dave Matthews Band, and Yerba Buena. He’s also a part of the super-group Forro in the Dark. More info: ffm.bio/gilmar

The Resolvers define “Big Band Reggae” by combining classic Jamaican roots and lively New Orleans stylings. Siblings Ojay and Sahara Smith (son and daughter of international reggae artist Ernie Smith) exchange lead vocal roles with Israeli born bandleader and guitarist Ron Eisner, while their rock-solid rhythm and bombastic horn sections set the pace. The Resolvers have shared the stage with The WailersJulian MarleyStephen MarleyDamian MarleyKymani MarleyInner CircleEnglish BeatYellowmanMatisyahuLee Scratch‘ Perry and Mishka. Get more details at TheResolvers.com.

Miamibloco is a Samba percussion community committed to creating intergenerational creative spaces through playing and teaching people of all ages and musical abilities. They believe that the unique non-verbal communication (hand signals) needed to play in their group is a valuable tool that brings a wide range of people together and allows them to understand each other. They conduct interactive workshops throughout Miami – learn more about the group at Miamibloco.squarespace.com.

Miami-based DJ Le Spam, founder of Spam Allstars, is a producer, music archivist, and musician also known for his eclectic vinyl collection. Born in Montreal, and raised in London and Bogota, he was exposed to a variety of music and cultures from an early age. He specializes in rare and hard to find music. His expansive collection includes Latin, funk, Miami-bass, Haitian, jazz, and more. He began digging for records as he toured the world as the guitar player for Capitol recording artist Nil Lara and continued adding when he formed and toured extensively with his own band Spam Allstars. SpamAllstarsBiz.com

This year, Afro Roots Fest held events in Gainesville, Jupiter, Doral, Miami Beach, Homestead, and Key West. After Hollywood, the 2022 season wraps with a two-day event in Islamorada at the Florida Keys Brewing Company.

 For more information about the festival, visit AfroRootsFest.com.

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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.

The award-winning Afro Roots Fest is a multi-county and multi-event concert series organized by CAC. This year, the festival has added new stops in Gainesville and Hollywood, gained new partners,and added a series of music and dance workshops.

More information and the full schedule is available at AfroRootsFest.com and through CommunityArtsandCulture.org.

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


Afro Roots Fest Featuring Sinkane and Daymé Arocena Returns to the North Beach Bandshell April 23

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Signature all-ages event will also include performances by Son Mandinga and DJ Lance-O beginning at 7 p.m.

April 6, 2022 – Miami Beach, FL – Afro Roots Fest’s 24th season is shaping up to be a memorable one. Festival organizers are bringing a rising Sudanese-American star, and one of the hottest acts in Afro-Cuban jazz to Miami Beach’s North Beach Bandshell on April 23rd. World Music fans will be able to catch co-headliners Sinkane and Daymé Arocena along with Son Mandinga and DJ LanceO beginning at 7 p.m. on that day. All ages are welcome, and tickets are available online at bit.ly/ARFMB2022.

“We are very excited about this year’s lineup, especially Sinkane, who we get to bring back after having to cancel his festival performance in 2020,” says Jose Elias, founder and executive director of Community Arts & Culture (CAC), the Miami-based non-profit organization. “The diversity of the acts, plus the level of production, as well as the live presence of legendary radio host George Colinet from Afropop Worldwide promises to make this a very memorable night of world music.” Elias is also a Grammy-nominated musician, composer, and producer.

Sinkane is a Sudanese-American musician who blends krautrock, prog rock, electronica, free jazz and funk rock with Sudanese pop. Born to college professors in London, he lived in Sudan, then moved to the US when he was five, and lived for some time in Ohio. From a very early age, he was a skate punk and a fan of hard-core, playing drums in bands like Of Montreal, Yeasayer and Caribou

Arocena draws inspiration from the intertwining musical legacies of her native Cuba. An Afro-Cuban jazz singer, composer, and choir director from Havana, she’s a bright-shining performer carrying the flame for a new generation of Cuban musicians. Approaching jazz, soul and classical influences with an innate sense of rhythm, she has been described as Cuba’s finest young female singer. Early on, her soul and jazz-obsessed nightclub manager father constantly filled her ears with the music of George Benson, Pérez Prado, Sade, and La Lupe

Son Mandiga is a product of Afro-Venezuelan influences, specifically the ones from the coasts of the state of Aragua, and the two brothers, Andrés and Guillermo Schloeter. Driven by their passion for percussion, the group wows audiences with their Afro-Caribbean drum and vocal stylings.

Lance-O was introduced to Peter Tosh in 1974, and this was also his foray into reggae music. In 1990 he began working at Reggae Report magazine, which also gave him an on-air slot on WAVS 1170 AM. It was here that Lance-O took Saturday night radio to another level, earning him a top-five rating in the market. Today, Kulcha Shok is a lifestyle brand and Lance-O is an in-demand DJ and event host.

The event is generously supported by the Florida Division of Cultural Affairs, the MiamiDade Department of Cultural Affairs, the City of Miami Beach Cultural Arts Council, the Rhythm Foundation, Afropop Worldwide, Purehoney Magazine, and the Broadmore Hotel.

 For more information and the full festival lineup, please click AfroRootsFest.com.

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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, please visit CommunityArtsandCulture.org.

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


Afro Roots Fest Returns to Guanabanas Saturday, April 16, 4 p.m. (media alert)

MEDIA ALERT

Free concert at the waterfront bar and restaurant to feature music and artists from Africa, the Caribbean, Central and South America, and the US

March 23, 2022 – Jupiter, FL – The award-winning Afro Roots Fest, a multi-county and multi-event concert series organized by Miami-based non-profit organization Community Arts and Culture (CAC) and now in its 24th season, is headed back to Jupiter. World music fans are in for a treat on Saturday, April 16, beginning at 4 p.m. at Guanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar (960 N Hwy A1A, Jupiter, FL 33477). The lineup features Philip Montalban (Nicaragua), Panafrik (Ghana / USA), Bad Apples Brass Band (USA), and DJ Ephniko (Colombia).

Opened by Jupiter surfers as a sandwich shop in 2004, Guanabanas has grown to become an institution in northern Palm Beach County for three reasons: the lush, tropical setting; great cuisine and cocktails; and live music from both national acts and the hottest names in South Florida.

The event is free and open to all ages before 9 p.m. 21 and over welcome after. More information about the festival is available at AfroRootsFest.com. Learn more about the venue at Guanabanas.com

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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, please visit CommunityArtsandCulture.org.

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


Afro Roots Fest Debuts in Gainesville with Three Days of Performances and Workshops

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Jomion and the Uklos along with student groups play the Bo Diddley Plaza Friday, April 8, then Weedie Braimah & the Hands of Time, Cortadito and others perform at Heartwood Stage Saturday, April 9

March 21, 2022 – Gainesville, FL – The award-winning Afro Roots Fest, a multi-county and multi-event concert series organized by Miami-based non-profit organization Community Arts and Culture (CAC), is coming to Gainesville for the first time in its 24-year history. Co-presented with the Center for Arts Migration and Entrepreneurship (CAME) at the University of Florida College of the Arts, the performances will run over two days at two different locations and a series of free workshops will occur over three days. Workshops and Day 1 of the concert schedule are free and open to the public of all ages.

“Afro Roots Fest has always strived to celebrate the evolution of African music and culture in our South Florida communities,” says CAC Founder and Executive Director Jose Elias. “This year and thanks to our friends at the University of Florida’s College of the Arts, we have expanded our mission into North Florida, and we couldn’t be more grateful.” Elias is a composer, musician, and producer, and leads the Cuban folk group Cortadito.

First up on Friday, April 8 at the Bo Diddley Plaza (111 E University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601), Jomion and the Uklos from Benin, West Africa headlines a concert that will also showcase some of the university’s best and brightest Afro-centric talent, the UF Afro Pop Ensemble, and the Pazeni Sauti Africa Choir. The show begins at 7 p.m. and is free and open to all ages.  


The following night, Weedie Braimah & Hands of Time (Ghana), Cortadito (Cuba), and Maca Reggae Samba (Brazil) will appear the Heartwood Soundstage (619 S Main St, Gainesville, FL 32601) in what promises to be an evening of Afro Roots music from two separate continents and the Caribbean. Pre-show tickets are $20 and available online at bit.ly/ARFG2022; admission will be $25 at the door. All ages are welcome.   

A djembe virtuoso, composer, producer, and folklorist of the highest caliber, Weedie has an almost insatiable knack to draw entire audiences into his groove, zigzagging through Africa on a breathtaking rhythmic roller coaster. Braimah’s musical career spans more than 30 years, and he comes from a long lineage of drummers including his mother, Ann Morris, a respected jazz drummer and his father, Oscar Sulley Braimah, a world-renowned composer, and master drummer. 

Cortadito’s focus is on performing the traditional Cuban music of the early 20th century. From son montunoguarachabolerosnengon, to bolero son, this dynamic ensemble brings the listener back to a time when Trio Matamoros, or Ignacio Piniero ruled the Cuban music world. From time to time, Cortadito is backed by a variety of guest musicians, which gives the group a sound reminiscent of the Buena Vista Social Club. Cortadito was named “Best Latin Act” by the Miami New Times in 2019.

Created in Salvador, Bahia and after twelve years of playing the Brazilian scene, Maca Reggae Samba is influenced by Jamaican reggae with the purest expressions of samba, a Brazilian rhythm created by African descendants of the Portuguese colony, Brazil. With this new work, a new rhythm is born: reggae samba, offering the public a new expressive possibility where the only rule is nobody can stand still. This rhythm brings movement not only to the stage, but to the public as well, lots of dancing.

Jomion and The Uklos is a family band from Benin, West Africa, led by Samuel Jomion” Gnonlonfoun, founder of the internationally renowned Gangbé Brass Band. With his brothers JB and Mathieu, and his daughter Rose, Jomion combines traditional rhythms and songs from vodoun (voodoo) culture with reggae, salsa and jazz to create vibrant, relaxed dance music he named Whedo-vodoo-jazz (W.V.J). 

Founded in 2021, UF’s African Popular Music Ensemble specializes in the popular music of the African continent, with a special focus on Afrobeat, highlife, soukous, and African jazz. The ensemble, directed by Sarah Politz and Kenneth Metzker both Affiliate Faculty in the CAME, features students from the School of Music, musicians from the Gainesville community, and selected guest artists.


Pazeni Sauti is UF’s only Africa Choir that learns and performs songs from all parts of Africa. It was established to spread awareness and appreciation of diverse African cultures through choral music.

The full workshop lineup, which is free and open to all ages, is as follows:  

Thursday, April 7

University of Florida College of the Arts, School of Music

435 Newell Drive, Gainesville, FL 32611, Music Building 101

Afropop Technology with Kingsley Okyere – 12:50 p.m.

Jomion and the Uklos – 1:55 p.m.

Friday, April 8

University of Florida College of the Arts, School of Music

435 Newell Drive, Gainesville, FL 32611, Music Building 120

Weedie Braimah – 11:45 a.m.

Saturday, April 9

The Depot Village

111 SE 4th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601

Hands-on Brazilian percussion – 11:00 a.m.

Brazilian drumming – 12:15 p.m.

West African dance – 1:30 p.m.

Afro-centric Youth Workshop – 2:30 p.m.

Full concert lineup:  

Friday, April 8

Bo Diddley Plaza

111 E University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601

Lineup: 

Jomion and the Uklos

UF Afro Pop Ensemble

Pazeni Sauti Africa Choir 

Saturday, April 9

Heartwood Soundstage

619 S Main St, Gainesville, FL 32601

Tickets: bit.ly/ARFG2022

Lineup: 

Weedie Braimah & Hands of Time

Cortadito

Maca Reggae Samba

Additional concerts are planned for Jupiter, Doral, Miami Beach, Homestead, Key West, Hollywood and Islamorada. These events are being produced in part through the generosity of the Florida Division of Cultural Affairs, the City of Gainesville, the UF Center for Latin American Studies, the UF College of the Arts, the UF School of Music, UF CAME, the UF Center for African Studies, Heartwood Soundstage, and Depot Village. 

For more information and the full festival lineup, please visit AfroRootsFest.com

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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, please visit CommunityArtsandCulture.org

ABOUT CAME and UF

The Center for Arts, Migration, and Entrepreneurship (CAME) at the University of Florida College of the Arts launched in the fall of 2020 and we work to connect networks of scholars, artists, creatives, entrepreneurs, and advocates to the engines of creative and cultural economics at the heart of migration.  


CAME defines the arts as all forms of cultural production, the center seeks to effectively create new models and power alignments that return value entrepreneurship to cultural producers to build more just global futures. Through community-responsive programming, research, and creative production, the center facilitates and extends the innovation, resilience, and ingenuity of diasporic and migratory communities.  


For more information, please visit arts.ufl.edu/came.

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


Afro Roots Fest Returns for a 24th Season with Twelve Concerts in Five Counties over Two Months

Gainesville and Hollywood are new to the concert series lineup, while Jupiter, Doral, Miami Beach, Homestead, Key West, and Islamorada all get return dates

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 17, 2022 – Islamorada, FL – The award-winning Afro Roots Fest, a multi-county and multi-event concert series organized by Miami-based non-profit organization Community Arts and Culture (CAC) is returning for a 24th season. This time, the festival will add a couple of new stops in Gainesville and Hollywood, a few new partners, return to some familiar territory, add a series of music and dance workshops, and dovetail with the 75th anniversary of Everglades National Park.

“Afro Roots Fest has always strived to celebrate the evolution of African music and culture in our South Florida communities,” says CAC Founder and Executive Director Jose Elias. “This year and thanks to our friends at the University of Florida and the folks at the City of Hollywood, we have expanded our reach into Alachua and Broward counties.” Elias is a composer, musician, and producer, and leads the Cuban folk group Cortadito and creator of the Everglades Songbook Suite, which will debut live on April 24.

The series kicks off on Friday, April 8 at the Bo Diddley Plaza (111 E University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601), as Jomion and the Uklos from Benin, West Africa headlines a concert that will also showcase some of the university’s best and brightest Afro-centric talent, the UF Afro Pop Ensemble, and the Pazeni Sauti Africa Choir. The show begins at 7 p.m. and is free and open to all ages.  

The following night, Weedie Braimah & Hands of Time (Ghana), Cortadito (Cuba), and Maca Reggae Samba (Brazil) will appear at the Heartwood Soundstage (619 S Main St, Gainesville, FL 32601) in what promises to be an evening of Afro Roots music from two separate continents and the Caribbean. Pre-show tickets are $20 and available online at bit.ly/ARFG2022; admission will be $25 at the door. All ages are welcome.   

There will also be a full card of workshops to accompany the concerts:

Thursday, April 7

University of Florida College of the Arts

435 Newell Drive, Gainesville, FL 32611, Music Building 101

Afropop Technology with Kingsley Okyere – 12:50 p.m.

Jomion and the Uklos – 1:55 p.m.

Friday, April 8

University of Florida College of the Arts

435 Newell Drive, Gainesville, FL 32611, Music Building 120

Weedie Braimah – 11:45 a.m.

Saturday, April 9

The Depot Village

111 SE 4th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601

Hands-on Brazilian percussion – 11:00 a.m.

Brazilian drumming – 12:15 p.m.

West African dance – 1:30 p.m.

Afro-centric Youth Workshop – 2:30 p.m.

Next up, the series shifts south to Palm Beach County, stopping at Guanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar (960 N Hwy A1A, Jupiter, FL 33477) on Saturday, April 16, beginning at 4 p.m. The lineup features Philip Montalban (Nicaragua), Panafrik (Ghana / USA), Bad Apples Brass Band (USA), and DJ Ephniko (Colombia). The event is free and open to all ages before 9 p.m. 21 and over welcome after.

The following weekend will mark the “Miami-Dade” portion of Afro Roots Fest, when the festival holds three consecutive days of events in Doral, Miami Beach, and Homestead. On Friday, April 22, The Doral Yard hosts Cortadito and friends, featuring Jude Papaloko (Haiti), Panafrik, ITAWE (Colombia), and DJ Kumi (Nicaragua). The location is 8455 NW 53rd Street, Suite 106, Doral, FL, 33178, and the show is free and open to the public. Music begins at 7 p.m.

The North Beach Bandshell (7275 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33141) is the site of the next concert, which stands as the signature event of the Afro Roots Fest series and is happening on Saturday, April 23. Scheduled to perform are Sinkane (Sudan), Dayme Arocena (Cuba), Son Mandinga (Venezuela), and DJ Lance-O (USA). General admission tickets are $30 and available online at bit.ly/ARFMB2022. Doors open at 6 p.m., music begins at 7, all ages welcome.

Wrapping up the weekend is a limited capacity RSVP live performance of the Everglades Songbook Suite at the Long Pine Key Amphitheater (40001 State Hwy 9336, Homestead, FL 33034) within the Everglades National Park on Sunday, April 24, beginning at 4 p.m. Inspired by Elias’ 2016 AIRIE (Artists in Residence in Everglades) artist residency, the performance will feature a variety of musicians from around the world. This event will be part of the park’s 75th anniversary celebration.

The following weekend, Afro Roots Fest heads south on U.S. 1 all the way down to Key West for a run in the Conch Republic. On Thursday, April 28, Cortadito and special guest Tomas Diaz (Cuba) play two sets at the Green Parrot (601 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040). Then the next two evenings, the Everglades Songbook Suite will be performed at The Studios of Key West (533 Eaton St, Key West, FL 33040), first in the theater on Friday, then the rooftop on Saturday. More info and tickets: bit.ly/ARFKW2022.

The series then shifts to Hollywood on Saturday, May 21, in more firsts for the festival: first concert in Broward County, first show in Hollywood, and maiden event at ArtsPark at Young Circle (1 North Young Circle, Hollywood, FL 33020). The lineup includes Jesus Hidalgo (Venezuela), Philip Montalban, Gilmar Gomes (Brazil), The Resolvers (US), Miamibloco (Brazil), and DJ Le Spam (UK / Venezuela). This show is free and open to the public of all ages, and begins at 4 p.m.

Finally, the festival wraps back in the Keys, at the Florida Keys Brewing Company (81611 Old Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036), with a free, all-ages two-day event on Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, May 29, Memorial Day Weekend. First up in the beer garden is Johnny Dread (Cuba) and Javier Garcia (Spain / Cuba / Ireland) on Saturday, beginning at 6 p.m., then Suenalo (multi-ethnic) and the Bad Apples Brass Band beginning at 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Afro Roots Fest is generously supported by the Florida Division of Arts and Culture, the Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs, the City of Miami Beach, Monroe County Tourist Development Council, the Morada Way Arts and Cultural District, Keys ICE, the Florida Keys Brewing Company, the City of Hollywood, AIRIE, the Everglades National Park, Live Arts Miami, the Rhythm Foundation, the University of Florida School of the Arts, the City of Gainesville, the Heartwood Soundstage, Guanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar, The Doral Yard, the Green Parrot, The Studios of Key West, the Broadmoor Hotel, Afropop Worldwide, and Purehoney Magazine.

More information and the full festival lineup is available online at AfroRootsFest.com.  

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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, please visit CommunityArtsandCulture.org.

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


Afro Roots Fest Returns to Islamorada Memorial Day Weekend

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Florida Keys Brewing Company and the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District to once again host the award-winning world music concert series

Islamorada, FL, May 11, 2021 — The 23rd season of the award-winning Afro Roots Fest makes a second run to the Florida Keys on Saturday, May 29, and Sunday, May 30, 2021 to the Florida Keys Brewing Company (81611 Old Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036). The event will feature live music on both days by JUke and Electric Piquete  (Saturday), and Electric Kif and the Nag Champayons (Sunday), beginning at 6 p.m. both days. All ages are welcome and a donation of $10 will earn attendees an official festival swag item.  

“It feels good to finally bring the festival back to Islamorada after a year where much of the musical programming in the Florida Keys was cancelled,” 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). 

“Our thanks go to the Florida Keys Brewing Co., Keys ICE, the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council.” Elias is also the co-founder and guitar player in the Nag Champayons, one of the festival’s featured performers. 

Here is the complete Islamorada schedule / lineup:

JUke and Electric Piquete (May 29)

Electric Kif and Nag Champayons (May 30)

JUke is a four-piece “post-blues” hybrid with a high motor and bottomless soul. Spearheaded by frontman / harmonica player / singer Eric Garcia, the band’s content touches on non-traditional subject matter while simultaneously keeping the crowd moving with a smile on their faces. They are jam festival favorites, appearing at events such as Wanee, Hulaween, AURA, Magnolia Fest, and the Orange Blossom Jamboree. Learn more at jukepostblues.com.

Electric Piquete is a two-time Miami New TimesBest of Miami Best Latin Band” award-winning Latin funk outfit. The band has played virtually all major events in South Florida, and their influences are as diverse as the Miami region that birthed them: from rock to jazz, funk, Afro-Caribbean, progressive and R&B. Though mostly instrumental, the band does feature vocals and rapping on several numbers; a tight rhythm section and heavy percussion supports melodious horn play. More details available at ElectricPiquete.com.

Electric Kif are a Miami-based power quartet that explore the boundaries between rock, jazz fusion and electronic drum & bass. Made up of bassist Rodrigo Zambrano, keyboardist Jason Matthews, drummer Armando Lopez and guitarist Eric Escanes, the “Kif” describe their music as “post-nuclear,” a dynamic mash of hard hitting groove, high octane riffs and cosmic melody. Their powerful live show brings an unparalleled energy and sound to the stage and displays a new experience every night. More: electrickif.com.

Miami’s Afro Galactic / Tropidelic funksters the Nag Champayons blend African, Caribbean and North American influences into a unique and extremely danceable sound. Their most recent release is the single and video for “Brazilian LSD”, which 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. Visit NagChampayons.com for more information.

For more information, visit floridakeysbrewingco.com or call 305-664-9722. Check www.AfroRootsFest.com for updates; 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 Affairs, Guanabanas 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 Collective, Miami-Dade College, the MonroeCounty 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.

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

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


Afro Roots Fest ft. Venezonix, Vanya Allen and DJ Le Spam at Doral Yard Saturday, 5/15, 5:30 p.m.

MEDIA ALERT

Award-winning world music festival in its 23rd year to feature Venezonix, Vanya Allen and DJ Le Spam

Doral, FL – May 5, 2021 – There will be something for all types of music lovers come Saturday, May 15, 2021 as the Afro Roots Fest makes a stop at the Doral Yard and showcases Afro-Venezuelan electronica by Venezonix, soul and R&B from Vanya Allen and the DJ Le Spam Bus Experience All ages are welcome to this free event coming May 15 to Downtown Doral, and attendees are encouraged to wear a mask and keep socially distanced.

Founded by Elastic Bond’s keyboardist / producer Andres Ponce, Venezonix combines traditional Afro-Venezuelan rhythms with futuristic beats; new EP La Que Es is out now. Allen is a performance artist, educator, and linguist from West Palm Beach known known for performing original music and covers in a wide range of genres as a solo artist and with her group, The BandohAndrew Yeomanson, AKA DJ Le Spam spins all manner of genres, from Miami funk to soul, salsa to world music, and everything in between. 

The Doral Yard is a community gathering space designed to foster local entrepreneurship and culture, created by the Yard Hospitality and Place Projects teams. Expanding on The Wynwood Yard concept, the venue brings culinary delights, live entertainment, and round-the-clock events to Downtown Doral. 

This event is made possible with the support of the Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs, and the Doral Yard.

For more information and for the full festival lineup, visit AfroRootsFest.com

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


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