Annual HEART FOR AFRICA Benefit Concert with Cheick Hamala Diabate
THIS YEAR’S ENTERTAINMENT: It’s a rare treat when Central IL is favored with live African music. When a musician the caliber of Cheick Hamala Diabate comes to town, however, you sit up and take notice! He’s collaborated with legends Bela Fleck & Corey Harris & recorded a Grammy nominated LP with banjoist Bob Carlin. A griot troubadour of Mali historical tradition, Diabate uses music to teach & advise to a world stage (from presidents to the World Bank). And his roots run deep. He is family to kora master Toumani Diabate & legendary Super Rail Band guitarist, Djelimady Tounkara. Says Diabate, “The music we griots play is not just about making nice sounds for dancing, it’s about giving a lesson to people about their lives.” But you’ll have to concentrate hard on the lesson because this is dance music, folks! Bring your dancing shoes!