Welcome to Philadelphia Jazz Project
AfroTaino Presents Daymé Arocena
Mar 22, 2016
AfroTaino Productions is a Philadelphia-based concert and events presenter/producer and marketing firm with a goal of sharing the vibrant world of global arts with local audiences and organizations. With 11 years under their belts they have collaborated with organizations like the National Council of La Raza, Mural Arts Program, National Public Radio (NPR), Bank of America, Greater Philadelphia Film Office, MTV Tr3s, Barnes Foundation, the Grammys (NARAS) and others. They have presented such performing artists as Calle 13, Bomba Estereo, Manu Chao, Casuarina, Antibalas, Chicano Batman, Ana Tijoux, and more.
On March 24th in collaboration with The African American Museum in Philadelphia, AfroTaino Productions presents Afro-Cuban vocal sensation, Daymé Arocena. This young lady is considered by many critics to be an international phenomenon. Merging her Afro-Cuban Santeria traditions with a love for Jazz and the influences of Black American Gospel music, she is at once something, very old and very new. She is making her first trip to the U.S. and after a 3 day stint in New York City, she hits Philadelphia running. Expect her performance to be fine-tuned and the band to be smoking.
To Learn More About Daymé Arocena, Click Here
Daymé Arocena
Thursday, March 24, 2016 from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
To Learn More About AfroTaino Productions, Click Here
PJP spoke with Marangeli Mejia-Rabell of AfroTaino, about their work and the upcoming concert.
PJP: Can you briefly describe AfroTaino's musical direction
Marangeli Mejia-Rabell: AfroTaino Productions is committed to showcasing global arts & culture, emerging acts and alternative sounds. Our bottomline is the quality of the work, the music must meet a standard of excellence. We have been blessed to support and collaborate with established acts ( including Ravi Shankar, Andy Montañez, Zap Mama, etc.) but also with acts in the beginning of their careers (including Calle 13, Las Cafeteras, etc.)
PJP: What and whom are pivotal musical influences on your creative approach?
Marangeli Mejia-Rabell: We have many influences in our work. Musically, we have a very diverse flavor. I grew up loving El Gran Combo, Donna Summer and Journey, so you can say my musical palate is mixed bag. When it comes to influences, Ruben Blades and Marta Moreno Vega based on her commitment to collaborate, facilitate and support growth in our communities.
PJP: As a presenter/producer, how do you manage the task of creating and encouraging fresh, new, forwarding moving musical ideas, while simultaneously exploring, celebrating and documenting the past?
Marangeli Mejia-Rabell: Our team's collective appetite for fresh, invigorating artistic expression - no matter how deep, how foreign - is voracious and endless. We are genuinely interested and excited about every project we take on, and that's what drives us. We always choose to honor our roots & heritages, and we know that everything we do is possible because of the countless contributions & sacrifices of our elders. Our company name is a direct result of us wanting to contribute to Black & Latino history, artistically & responsibly.
PJP: What’s so important about this upcoming Dayme' Arocena project ?
Marangeli Mejia-Rabell: Dayme Arocena is a phenomenally talented performer. To have her pass through Philly on her 1st US tour ever, and to link this celebration with the Drapetomania exhibition at the African American Museum, is practically a synergistic blessing from our ancestors. We've been saying around the AfroTaino office that she is the "Cuban answer to Jill Scott". So, basically we are giddy with excitement to be a part of this premiere event.
PJP: When listening to Dayme' Arocena's music, what advice would you give to audiences to assist with greater understanding and enjoyment?
Marangeli Mejia-Rabell: Understand that Dayme comes from a very strong, beautiful heritage that lies 90 miles south of Key West, Florida, which under certain political restraints, lies almost invisible to the US. Understand the powerful richness of the Diaspora channeled through jazz, soul, and Yoruban culture creates an unforgettable experience. Sit back, listen to her sing, and get swept away to La Habana, Cuba.
To Learn More About Daymé Arocena, Click Here
Daymé Arocena
Thursday, March 24, 2016 from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
To Learn More About AfroTaino Productions, Click Here
Photo Credit: Casey Moore
