Rhythms Of Africa, the drumming panorama that has become a staple of South Florida entertainment, returns April 30 after a one-year break.
Last year's event was cancelled due to COVID-19, but Willie Stewart, its founder and organizer, says the ninth staging at Miramar Regional Park Amphitheater will be extra special.
"Our theme will be celebrating Jamaica’s 60th Independence Anniversary Diamond Jubilee. This Rhythms Of Africa will be under the distinguished patronage of the Consul General of Jamaica, Oliver Mair as one of official concert endorsements for Jamaica’s 60th," Stewart explained.
"Also, we are proud to announce that our non- profit Embrace Music Foundation in partnership with the City Of Miramar, hosted by mayor Wayne Messam, will present Rhythms Of Africa 2022."
Marcia Griffiths and Gramps Morgan are guest artists for the show which also highlights the talents of high school students in Broward County. Stewart, former member of Third World, taught and mentored them.
This year, students from the Everglades High School will be featured.
Stewart made his name with Third World in the 1970s and 1980s. He was part of their classic lineup that included keyboardist Ibo Cooper, guitarist Stephen "Cat" Coore, singer Bunny Rugs, bassist Richard Clarke and percussionist Carrot Jarrett.
The London-born Stewart played on the band's biggest hit songs including "Now That we Found Love" and "Always Around".
He was awarded the Order of Distinction, Jamaica's sixth-highest honor, in 2020.
Written By Howard Campbell