On Friday, April 1st, the Miramar Cultural Center came alive with the electrifying beats of Africa as the Rhythms of Africa event celebrated its 10-year anniversary. The event, introduced by Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam, was a spectacle to behold as it showcased the rich cultural heritage of Africa through music, dance, and other artistic expressions.
As a fitting tribute to the occasion, Mayor Messam declared April 1st “Third World Day” at the show, in honor of the legendary Jamaican reggae band Third World. The band has been an influential force in reggae music since the 1970s and was a major inspiration for the Rhythms of Africa event.
One of the highlights of the event was the performance by Grammy-nominated drummer Willie Stewart, formerly of Third World. Stewart led a group of 25 talented teenage musicians from Everglades High School in a special performance that left the audience in awe. The young musicians played with such skill and passion that they seemed like seasoned professionals.
The audience was treated to a variety of musical genres, including reggae, afrobeat, and jazz, all infused with the distinct rhythms of Africa. The performers, who came from all corners of the globe, showcased their unique styles and traditions while also creating a beautiful tapestry of sound that was truly breathtaking.
One of the highlights of the evening was the appearance of the legendary Julian Marley, the son of the late reggae icon Bob Marley. Julian Marley is an accomplished musician and songwriter in his own right and has been a major force in keeping the Marley legacy alive. He took the stage to thunderous applause and gave a performance that was nothing short of spectacular. His energy and charisma were contagious, and he had the crowd on their feet, dancing and singing along.
The Rhythms of Africa event was not just about music, however. It was also a celebration of African culture and heritage. The event featured a variety of cultural dances and a journey into the history of different drums.
Overall, the 10-year anniversary of the Rhythms of Africa event was a resounding success. It was a fitting tribute to the rich cultural heritage of Africa and a celebration of the power of music to bring people together. The event showcased the talents of some of the world’s best musicians and performers, while also providing a platform for young and upcoming artists to showcase their skills. The audience was left with a feeling of awe and inspiration, and many left the event with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and diversity of African culture.
As Mayor Messam put it in his opening remarks, “The Rhythms of Africa event is not just about music. It is a celebration of life, a celebration of culture, and a celebration of the human spirit.” And after witnessing the incredible performances and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of the event, it is hard to disagree. Here’s to another 10 years of the Rhythms of Africa event and the celebration of Africa’s rich cultural heritage.
