From Africa to New Orleans: Music for the Soul

African rhythms are at the heart of New Orleans music from the blues to jazz.  The sounds that we know and love today have their roots in a continent thousands of miles away.  This weekend, hear Africa and North America come together at one of two performances, one Saturday, and one Sunday.  Both are free (love that!), but more importantly, they are priceless.

On Saturday, look for the band Kora Konnection at the Bayou Boogaloo Festival at 11:00 a. m.  (Scroll down to read my entry on this fest.)  Then on Sunday, catch the group groovin' over at the French Market.  First, at noon is the African jazz ensemble Kora Konnection.  Kora Konnection is an exotic blend of West African Mandinka music and Jazz Improvisation.  It has a unique sound that spans the cultures of two continents.  At 1:00 p. m., listen to Senegalese master Morikeba Kouyate sing and share stories accompanied by his African harp known as the Kora.  Then at 2:00 p. m. dance to African Village traditional West African drummers.  This performance is part of the African Sundays @ the Flea Market series.  Find the groups jamming at the Barracks Street stage in the French Market.

Listen like a local.  Live like a local.  The beat goes on...