Feedel Band is a Washington, DC-based Ethio-jazz group blending ’60s R&B, funk, and jazz with traditional Ethiopian music. Formed in 2010 by keyboardist Araya Woldichael, the band includes top Ethiopian musicians: saxophonist Moges Habte, bassist Al Seged Kebede, drummer Mikias Abebayehu, guitarist Kaleb Tesgen, trombonist Ben Hall, krarist Minale Bezu, and drummer Joseph Kenneth. They’ve performed with Ethiopian legends like Tilahun Gessesse and Aster Aweke, including on Aster’s recent “Ewedihalehu” U.S. tour. Feedel draws inspiration from iconic bands like Walias, Ibex, and Mulatu Astatke, while crafting original music with a modern twist. Saxophonist Moges appears on the acclaimed Éthiopiques Volume 13, and bassist Al Seged’s grooves feature on music by Tilahun and Aster. Their latest album, Ethiopian Ocean, produced by Woldichael, highlights their fresh take on Ethio-jazz. “Feedel” means “letter” in Amharic—a fitting name for a band rewriting the language of Ethiopian music.
Coyaba Dance Theater, founded in 1997 by Sylvia Soumah, is a West African dance and music company based in Washington, D.C. Their mission is to present both traditional and contemporary West African dance and music, focusing on diverse ethnic groups and humanitarian themes within West African culture. They perform throughout the year, showcasing their work at venues like the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and internationally.
TolumiDE (pronounced toe-lu-mee-day) is an award-winning Nigerian-Canadian singer and songwriter known for her unique ‘Suya Soul’ sound—a rich blend of Afropop, R&B, gospel, reggae, and jazz. Celebrated by Soul Tracks for her “classic R&B vibe with African percussive trimmings,” her music explores themes of love, life, and cultural identity. Born and raised in Lagos, TolumiDE developed her musical talent in church choirs and her school’s Yorùbá dance troupe. Her artistry flourished in Canada during her Fine Arts studies, where she joined an all-female dancehall reggae band before launching her solo career. With albums like My Love, Specialty, and her acoustic EP Mama Sunshine, TolumiDE has earned praise both at home and abroad. She proudly represents the Afropolitan spirit, crafting music that bridges African rhythms with soulful melodies. Her single Throwback climbed to #3 on the Global Top Independent airplay charts, and she was named Best R&B Female Artist at the Nigerian Entertainment Awards. TolumiDE continues to inspire audiences across Africa and the diaspora with vibrant sounds that celebrate heritage and connection.
KanKouran West African Dance Company, founded by Artistic Director Assane Konte and the late Abdou Kounta, is a renowned organization dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional West African culture through dance and music. For over four decades, the company has been a cornerstone for dancers, students, and musicians, fostering community and artistic excellence. KanKouran’s performers, hailing from the United States, Africa, and the Caribbean, work to introduce the essence of traditional African dancing and drumming to audiences.