2025 Performers:

Moussa "Bolokada" Conde is a Malinke percussionist from Guinea, West Africa with exceptional knowlege and skill in djembe and dunun instruction. He is a world class expert teacher of traditional Malinke rhythms and has performed for thousands of people at the highest level. Bolokada takes pride in sharing the Malinke rhythms, songs, and his culture with passion, patience, and remarkable zeal in not only spellbinding performances, but also in everyday class settings. An experience not to be missed!

The Yeli Ensemble, a key component of AfricaNashville, showcases the talents of the Guinean musician Ibrahima ‘Ibro’ Dioubate, the South African dancer Michael Moloi and various visiting artists. The ensemble offers engaging performances and interactive workshops that educate audiences about the rhythms, dances, and traditions of West and South Africa. By aspiring to train the upcoming generation of dancers and drummers, AfricaNashville creates opportunities for cultural immersion and artistic growth.  With a mission to uplift and empower artists, AfricaNashville is redefining the cultural landscape of Nashville and beyond. 

The YELI Ensemble is named after the word 'Yeli', also called Griot in French. A Yeli is a 'living archive' of West African people's traditions. It is someone who has learned their art form from the youngest age, initially from their parents and then from their community and different masters of the art form.

The Love Drums is a high-energy, neo-tribal percussion ensemble dedicated to igniting joy, connection, and movement through rhythm. Blending traditional African drumming with original grooves and global influences, the group creates an irresistible pulse that gets audiences up and dancing.

More than just a band, The Love Drums is a rhythmic experience — uplifting, participatory, and deeply rooted in community. Their performances often include interactive drum circles and spontaneous dancing, turning each event into a shared celebration of spirit, sound, and soul.

Based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, The Love Drums has performed at festivals, concerts, and community gatherings throughout the region, including the popular Love Drums Whizbang Drum & Dance events, now in their 101st edition. Whether on a main stage or in a public park, The Love Drums brings people together with the healing and unifying power of the drum.

Multi instrumentalist Biko Casini has been playing the Djembe for 25 years and was a student of Papa Ladji Camara in NYC.

Biko grew up in community and has been a part of many all night drum circles-a big part of his learning process.

In 2019 Biko released an album of contemporary African music with Burkina born musician Arouna Diarra titled Arouna and Biko, Bamanaya Sira. Biko has also been a member of Rising Appalachia for 12 years and is currently working on a solo album of songs composed on the Kemele Ngoni.