Afro Roots Fest concludes 25th anniversary season with a weekend in Islamorada May 19-21

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Three consecutive days of free concerts at the Florida Keys Brewing Company featuring Electric Kif, Cortadito, Miamibloco, Nag Champayons with Johnny Dread, and Grupo Barro Abajo

Islamorada, FL – May 2, 2023 – One of SouthFlorida’s longest-running music festivals Afro Roots Fest will wrap its 25th anniversary season with a weekend of free concerts in Islamorada at the Florida Keys Brewing Company (81611 Old Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036). The weekend kicks off at 6 p.m. in the beer garden on Friday, May 19, 2023, with a performance by Electric Kif, and continues with Cortadito and Miamibloco on Saturday, May 20, 6 p.m. Finally, the Nag Champayons and special guest Johnny Dread plus Grupo Barrio Abajo close things out on Sunday, May 21, 2 p.m. All performances are free and open to the public of all ages.

“We couldn’t think of a better way or place to end the season than with this amazingly diverse presentation of cultures at one of the finest breweries in all of Florida,” says Afro Roots Fest founder and Nag Champayons guitarist and bandleader Jose Elias. “I’m proud to continue to fulfill the mission of our nonprofit to bring African-influenced culture to underserved locations and invite everyone to come enjoy a full weekend’s worth of incredibly talented musical presentations.” Elias is also the executive director of the Miami nonprofit Community Arts and Culture (CAC), the organization behind Afro Roots Fest, as well as the bandleader and tres player in Cortadito..  

The Nag Champayons are Frank Zappa and Serge Gainsbourg wrestling Antibalas Afrobeat Orchestra. It’s Sonic Youth’s plane crashing into Fela Kuti’s boat in the Everglades on the hottest day of summer. “Afro-Floyd,” said one listener. The group began in the early 2000s as an improvisational collective whose name came from the burning of Nag Champa incense during early jams. The group is currently in the studio recording the follow up to the 2015 release Rising Sounds of a Sinking City and 2016 single “Brazilian LSD”. Johnny quite simply transcends reggae music into a unique blend of world beat rhythms. His musical influences are as diverse as his Rasta, Cuban-American background.

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 band has garnered attention of the live music scene for their eclectic take on groove and their own brand of ‘post-nuclear music’. Their most recent album Dreamlike is Electric Kif’s 4th full length LP and features international heavy hitters Aaron Parks and Chris Bullock of Snarky Puppy. In May they also released a special single collaboration with Adam Deitch.

Since their origin ten years ago, Cortadito has 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. This dynamic ensemble lead by Elias and co-founder / guitarist / vocalist Julio Cesar Rodriguez Delet, leads audiences through “The Guajiro Triangle”, an audio experience spanning the three cities of Miami, Havana, and Santiago, representing the group’s origins.

Co-led by Brian Potts and suOm Francis, Miamibloco is a Samba percussion community nonprofit that 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 Saideira Social at The Miami Beach Bandshell, where the Miamibloco performance group Bateria Saideira collaborates on stage with high caliber local, Brazilian, and international musicians including Samir Langus, Munir Hossn, Gilmar Gomes, Musiana, Magela Herrera, Oigo, and Mauricio Baia.

Group Barrio Abajo seeks to raise international awareness of the folkloric musical heritage of the Caribbean Colombia by presenting styles such as cumbia, bullerengue, porro, chandé, and more than 30 other unparalleled musical rhythms. Globally, their home country is known for cumbia and vallenato, but these are just two parts of their musically diverse heritage. Barrio Abajo has performed at various editions of Afro Roots Fest, and is a regular favorite at CAC events.

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 & Mariam, Sun Ra Arkestra, Alsarah, Fatoumata Diawara, Fulu Miziki, Salif Keita, Vieux Farka Toure, Toubab 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.

This year’s edition of the award-winning festival is generously supported by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council, the Morada Way Arts and Cultural District, and Keys ICE.

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

Koubek Center hosts the Inheritants Project: Afro Roots 2023 workshops and jam session April 16 

MEDIA ALERT

Miami, FL – April 6, 2023 – The Inheritants Project: Afro Roots 2023 workshops and jam session take place in Little Havana on Sunday, April 16, at 2 p.m., presented by Community Arts and Culture and the Koubek Center. Launched in 2012, the Inheritants Project is the youth component of the nonprofit Community Arts and Culture, and is a Miami-based, 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” Alfonso, rumbero, and one of the founders of the Cuban fusion legends Irakere. Since space is limited, RSVPs are required.

Who: Community Arts and Culture and the Koubek Center

What: Community Arts and Culture | Inheritants Project Afro Roots

When: Sunday, April 16, 2023

Where: 2705 SW 3rd Street, Miami, FL 33135

RSVP: bit.ly/ARFIP2023

Event support provided by Community Arts and Culture, The Koubek Center, Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, Miami Dade College, and Florida Arts and Culture.



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

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 Spaces, Miami 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” Alfonso, rumbero, 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 & Mariam, Sun Ra Arkestra, Alsarah, Fatoumata Diawara, Fulu Miziki, Salif Keita, Vieux Farka Toure, Toubab 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

Afro Roots Fest to Highlight Multicultural Rhythms in Key West April 27-28

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Eclectic, traveling music festival celebrates its 25th year with performances by the Nag Champayons + Tomas Diaz and Cortadito

Key West, FL – April 3, 2023 – Audiences can enjoy multicultural musical events in Key West Thursday and Friday, April 27-28, during the annual Afro Roots Fest.

The cultural kaleidoscope is to begin Thursday with two performances by Tomas Diaz and the Nag Champayons at the Green Parrot Bar (601 Whitehead St.).

A Latin Grammy Award nominee, Diaz has appeared with artists ranging from Celia Cruz to Bruce Springsteen. He and the Nag Champayons, known for their “Afrogalactic Tropidelic” sound, join forces to present an unforgettable musical experience.

Shows are scheduled for 5:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. at the landmark bar. There is no cover charge and everyone age 21 and over is welcome.

The Studios of Key West (533 Eaton St.) is the setting for a Friday night concert by Cortadito, a Cuban folk and country band known for its mastery of the Afro-Cuban musical form known as Son. Cortadito’s traditional stylings have evoked comparisons to Cuba’s iconic Buena Vista Social Club.

The 8 p.m. show is to take place in the Helmerich Theater. Tickets are $50 per person ($40 for Studios of Key West members) and can be purchased at bit.ly/ARFKW2023.  

The Key West events highlight the 25th season of the Afro Roots World Music Festival, an exploration of cultural experiences through performances, programs and outreach at locations around Florida.

The festival is staged by Community Arts and Culture. Now in its 20th year, the nonprofit organization is dedicated to increasing understanding through the cultivation, preservation and presentation of diverse cultural music and arts offerings.

Festival information: 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

Afro Roots Fest returns to Jupiter featuring Locos Por Juana, Cortadito, Sanba Zao, and Miamibloco April 15

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Eclectic, traveling music festival celebrates its 25th year with a diverse lineup of music representing Colombia, Cuba, Haiti, and Brazil, as well as selections by DJ Ephniko

Jupiter, FL – March 28, 2023 – One of South Florida’s longest-running music festivals will once again return to Guabanabas Island Restaurant & Bar (940 US Hwy A1A, Jupiter, FL 33147) on April 15, 2023. This year’s edition of Afro Roots Fest, number 25 overall, will feature live music by Locos Por Juana, Cortadito, Sanba Zao, and Miamibloco beginning at 4 p.m. The event is co-presented by Roots Music, Inc. and is free and open to all ages before 9 p.m. 21 and over welcome after.

“I’m always excited to bring the festival back to Jupiter,” says Afro Roots Fest founder and Cortadito vocalist, tres player, and bandleader Jose Elias. “The support we get from the venue, staff, and the community at large is everything. We are looking forward to presenting an afternoon and evening of multicultural musical acts in an always enchanting setting.” Elias is also the executive director of the Miami nonprofit Community Arts and Culture, the organization behind Afro Roots Fest.  

“This is one our favorite events of the year celebrating the unique artists representing the world music scene. This is one of our best lineups since inception, in my opinion,” says Talent Buyer and Roots Music principal Matt Cahur, who is a musician and the lead audio engineer for the venue.

Locos Por Juana is a GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY nominated bilingual band most notably recognized for their high energy live performances and unique fusion of reggae, funk, cumbia, salsa, and rock. The band, featuring Itawe Correa as its charismatic lead vocalist, talented guitarist Mark Kondrat, innovative drummer Javier Delgado, and electrifying bass player David Pransky, write and produce all of their own music. Their sound can best be described as having “that island swing”.

Since their origin ten years ago, Cortadito has 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. This dynamic ensemble lead by Elias and co-founder / guitarist / vocalist Julio Cesar Rodriguez Delet, leads audiences through “The Guajiro Triangle”, an audio experience spanning the three cities of Miami, Havana, and Santiago, representing the group’s origins.

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 Sa, Foula Jazz, and Djakata.

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. In Miamibloco, everyone has an instrument and each one is as important as the next for collective sound. 

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 & Mariam, 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 events in markets such as Gainesville, North Miami, Doral, Hollywood, Islamorada, and Key West.

In addition to DJing, Ephniko is also an MC who fronts the six-man audio/visual collective Nag Champayons, a group that began as an improvisational collective that drew from African, Caribbean, hip-hop, rock and jazz influences. He also leads the Patacon Conspiracy, which fuses hip-hop and raw lyricism with Pan-African and Latin American rhythms to create a worldbeat sound.

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 venue has now hosted an Afro Roots Fest event each year since 2018. 

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. 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

Afro Roots Fest returns to Gainesville for a two-day Afro-Cuban convening

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Free, all-ages concert at Bo Diddley Plaza follows a full day of song, dance, and drum workshops, and a lecture / artist panel at the University of Florida

Gainesville, FL – March 14, 2023 – The long-running, award-winning Afro Roots Fest is coming back to North Florida on Friday, April 7 and Saturday, April 8, 2023 for a two-day convening that includes workshops, lectures, and a free, family-friendly concert. The first day, clinical component is a ticketed event at the University of Florida School of Theater and Dance (1800 McCarty Drive Gainesville, FL 32603). The next evening, a concert takes place at Bo Diddley Plaza (111 E University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601) featuring Jacaré Brazil, the UF Afropop Ensemble with special guest Titos Sompa, and the Odara Conjunto Folklorico beginning at 7 p.m.

“We’re thrilled to continue developing this relationship that we have with the University of Florida School of the Arts,” says Jose Elias, founder and executive director for presenting organization Community Arts and Culture. “This will be the first time the festival incorporates a more academic approach to our presentations. The caliber of artists that are participating in this program is unprecedented. We look forward to continuing to make this an annual destination event in Gainesville.”

Workshops and lectures include “Songs in Lukumi for Eleggua and Yemaya”, Afro-Cuban Dance classes like Rumba and Orisa for Yemaya, an all-levels percussion class that focus on guiro and bembe, a lecture about the sacred Bata, and an all-cast artist panel with a Q&A. Florida residents can enjoy a 50% discount on tickets by using the promo code “FloridaResident” and presenting a valid Florida ID on the day of event. Preregistration is required – there will be no options to pay for the workshops on the day of. Attendees should allow extra time to park on site and check in, which begin 30 minutes before class.

Jacaré Brazil provides a unique interpretation of Brazilian music through its usage and mixture of various Brazilian instrumental musical genres and rhythms such as the choro, waltz, maxixe, samba-choro, and bossa-jazz. The distinctive blend of musical instruments such as the violin, mandolin, saxophone, guitar, pandeiro (Brazilian tambourine), and voices create nostalgic sentiments with colorful and brilliant textures. Its repertoire celebrates and reminds us of Brazil’s rich music scenario, and is a vibrant part of the World Music and Graduate Program in Ethnomusicology at UF.

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 Center for Arts Migration and Entrepreneurship – features students from the School of Music, musicians from the Gainesville community, and selected guest artists. Sompa, the colorful master dancer, choreographer, drummer, and healer was born in Brazzaville, Congo. He founded the band Les Echos Noir, which he still tours with, and is widely credited as a champion of the distinctive Congolese sound.

Odara Conjunto Folklorico is an all-star group comprised of all of of the individuals leading workshops on Friday: Yudisleidy Valdes, dancer, Ernesto “El Gato” Gatell, vocals, Roman Diaz, percussion, Sandy Perez, percussion, and Alain Fernandez, vocals. Afro-Cuban music fans can expect an explosive performance of traditional Yoruba chants and rhythms, mixed in with Latin jazz and a fusion of other world music influences.

Originating in 1999 at the now defunct Miami live music venue 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 in 2017, 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. 

Tickets for the workshop day are available online at bit.ly/ARFG2023. Funded in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County.

For more information, visit 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 Mambazo, Cesaria Evora, Gilberto Gil, Baaba Maal, Kanda 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 2022 Concludes in Islamorada on Memorial Day Weekend

MEDIA ALERT

Festival travels to Islamorada May 28 and 29, featuring Johnny Dread, Suenalo, Javier Garcia, and Bad Apples Brass Band

May 17, 2022 – Islamorada, FL – The award-winning Afro Roots Fest is to take center stage over Memorial Day weekend in Islamorada, with shows scheduled Saturday and Sunday, May 28-29. The Memorial Day weekend concerts in Islamorada are to take place at the Florida Keys Brewing Co. (FKBC), 81611 Old Highway. Attendees can expect a tasty blend of craft beer and melodic offerings from some of Florida’s top world-music talents.

Saturday evening’s show, beginning at 6 p.m. at the popular brewery, is to spotlight the Caribbean-influenced world beat mastery of Johnny Dread, paired with the Latin-infused rhythms of Javier García.
Sunday’s musical schedule begins at 4 p.m. Audiences can sway to the sounds of the nine-piece Latin funk band Suenalo, a critically acclaimed South Florida favorite, and the funky New Orleans style of the Bad Apples Brass Band.

Both shows are to take place in the beer garden and admission is free. The festival is presented by Miami-based nonprofit organization Community Arts and Culture, and supported by the Florida Division of Arts and Culture, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council, Keys ICE, the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, and FKBC.

Festival information: 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 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 Kidjo, Santana, Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull, Harry Belafonte, Rihanna, Shakira, Prince, Gilberto Gil, Meshell 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 Wailers, Julian Marley, Stephen Marley, Damian Marley, Kymani Marley, Inner Circle, English Beat, Yellowman, Matisyahu, Lee ‘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 Moves to Miami-Dade This Weekend April 22 – 24 with Concerts in Doral, Miami Beach, and Homestead

MEDIA ALERT

April 18, 2022 – Miami-Dade County, FL – This weekend marks 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 and co-presented by Community Arts and Culture and  Live Arts Miami, the performance will feature a variety of musicians from around the world. This event will be part of the park’s 75th anniversary celebration, and park entry fee applies. 

For more information, 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