The Bing Arts Center, at 716 Sumner Avenue, Springfield, MA, will present African Rhythms! Thursday evening, January 19, at 8 p.m. This exciting event is part of the Bing Artbeat World Music Series, which will continue through June. African Rhythms! features performances by Gokh-Bi System and Abdou Sarr.
One of the leaders of the emerging African hip-hop movement, Gokh-Bi System creates a melodic and memorable blend of singing, rapping, traditional and contemporary beats. They have dubbed their fusion of beats “Ancient meets Modern.” Combined with Abdou Sarr’s dynamic combination of Senegalese dance styles, this will be a performance of unforgettable rhythmic mastery!
For twenty years or more, American hip-hop has influenced the music of the younger generation across the continent. Motivated by its cultural and political power, African youth have adopted and adapted the music and lyrics to their own struggle. Largely overlooked by international media and the recording industries, Senegal has developed into one of Africa’s largest hip-hop markets.
Born in the slums of Dakar, the capital of Senegal in West Africa, GBS was formed in 1995 by three childhood friends Mamadou Ndiaye (MC), Diasse Pouye (MC), and Pape “Bathie” Pouye (manager) who grew up together in one of Dakar’s poorest villages, Pikine, Guinaw Rail which translates literally into “the other side of the tracks.” Raised in Senegal’s deep, rich, musical culture, Gokh-Bi System (pronounced Go-Bee), like most urban youth born in the 80’s, was heavily influenced by hip-hop. Bathie and Diasse are brothers and when they were young, their parents welcomed Mamadou and his family into their home.
Tickets are $7.50 each, with all proceeds helping to fund this year’s expanded programming. Tickets are available at Flowers, Flowers!, at 758 Sumner Avenue in Springfield, or by phone at (413) 731-9730.
