Safarini In Transit
Jack Straw Cultural Center and Rakumi Arts International developed and produced the Safarini project to promote the work of African immigrant artists.
Two of Obo Addy’s songs are included on Safarini – Amedzro and Oshi
Jack Straw Cultural Center and Rakumi Arts International developed and produced the Safarini project between 1995-1998 to promote the work of African immigrant artists. The Safarini compact disc was released by Smithsonian Folkways Recordings in 2000.
This project features five artists – Wawali Bonane, Frank Ulwenya, Lora Chiorah-Dye, Kofi Anang and Obo Addy. As a result of their participation in this project, the artists have appeared at public events in various cities as well as in schools throughout the area.
The disc serves as an introduction to a variety of African musical styles, including the mbira music of Ghana, soukous music of the Congo, marimba music of Zimbabwe, and guitar music of Kenya. The 67-minute album features the instrumentation and performance styles of Afropop, dynamic polyrhythmic drums and experimentation with new international musical styles. The CD includes photos and a 28-page booklet including essays by Diana N’Diaye, on African immigrants in the United States, and Jon Kertzer, on African musicians in the Pacific Northwest.”
Artscape: Wawali Bonane
Safarini was made possible with support from the National Endowment for the Arts, King County Arts Commission, Seattle Arts Commission and the Washington State Arts Commission.
Purchase the Album from Smithsonian Folkways Recording
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