Farafina Kan literally translates to the sound of Africa. We are a professional West African Percussion Orchestra dedicated to maintaining the history and integrity of traditional African music. Farafina Kan is a family! We are comprised of young African-American artists who have been reared the most righteous and pure way.
We have the spirit of the old and energy of the new... Our music comes from the traditions of the Mandingue people of West Africa. We take traditional music and add the composite experiences of our lives as young Africans born in America. We are continuing the legacy of the African American musical genius who have kept the world in beat for the past 400 years. Our music has a traditional foundation blended with contemporary music such as reggae, blues, jazz and hip-hop. We are forever indebt to all our teachers.
Specifically, Diali Djimo Kouyate who remains a constant present force in each of our daily lives and continues to guide us from the spirit world may you continue to rest in paradisewe have heard your call and we will not let you down; and Djembefola Mamady Nankama Keita, the father of Farafina Kan, The Lion of Mandingue, the greatest Djembe master ever for giving us the name Farafina Kan and taking us under your widespread wing to pass on the music, culture and tradition of the Mandingue. We are eternally grateful to our parents for having the foresight to search for the traditions of our ancestors and the many elders who have and continue to pave the way for us to do what we do today.