From artist collectives to all night dance parties, copious farmer's markets and an official holiday honouring hip-hop, Oakland never skips a chance to come together and celebrate life. With its diverse population of immigrants, artists, radicals, educators, taste makers, and free thinkers, the city is a cultural oasis, where nearly anything is possible. Here's a guide to a handful of groups, venues and events in Oakland dedicated to sharing and celebrating culture from across Africa and the diaspora.
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Visual Artists
Photo of Keba Konte
This list would be incomplete without honoring Oakland's artists. Painter/sculptor Eesuu Orundide blurs the line between fine art and street art. His 16 Cowries series (a semi-permanent installation at SF's African American Art & Cultural Complex) elicits conversation about how we define wealth. Photomontage artist Keba Konte (above) is known for his complex and layered historical narratives created by combining photography with clever woodworking techniques– his distinguished pieces grace many Bay Area cafes, galleries and theaters. Kenyan-born painter Omiiroo Nyeusi employs a wicked color base to push viewers beyond expectations– the result of which is a fresh take on the Black experience that features elements of music, politics and identity. Catch Eesuu Orundide’s “Sugar.0” opening April 4th at Sole Space (1714 Telegraph).
DJs
Photo of SKIN co-founder DJ Cecil
Local DJʼs such as Cecil, Veyn, Orfeu Negro, Mpenzi, Nina Sol, Abeldee, Soul Profess, Juan G and Cuba's Leydis are all known to weave their rich, cultural backgrounds into a lovable global groove that is dance floor ready. Expect everything from dancehall to soca, salsa and tropical bass cuts. Look out for Orfeu Negro & DJ Cecil at thePeople the 4th Saturday of every month at the New Parish (579 18th St) and Soul Profess at “Recess" (Somar Bar 1727 Telegraph) the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of every month.
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Africa Mix on KALW
While technically located across the bridge in San Francisco, Africa Mix on KALW is the only local radio show that allows listeners to delight in vintage and contemporary sounds from Abidjan to Zimbabwe, so we had to give it a mention. Hosts Edwin OʼKongo and Emmanuel Nado deliver musical treats from Africa and the African diaspora that will revive even the weariest of souls. Tune in to Africa Mix on KALW Thursday evenings from 9pm-Midnight.
“SKIN” Worldwide
“SKIN” launched in the Fall of 2013 and has since become one of Oakland's premiere parties. Dedicated to celebrating the sounds of the African and Latin diasporas, “SKIN” hosts resident DJs Cecil, Diaztek, Son of Son and Emancipacion alongside djembefolas Vincent Perrault and Ricky Carter. Whether “SKIN” is on a Saturday evening, or outdoors on a Sunday afternoon, expect performances by special guest DJs, drum and dance ensembles, offerings from local chefs and artisan vendors, dance classes, live visual art and exhibits, and of course, the very best in Kudoro, Zouk, Souksous, Highlife, Semba, Azonto, South African House, Soca, Afro-Beat, Hip-Life and more! Listen to SKIN co-founder DJ Cecil's latest mix below.
Catch "SKIN” at Parliament, 811 Washington St., on Saturday, March 29th!
Chinyakare Ensemble
Always a stand out show at San Franciscoʼs Ethnic Dance Festival, Oakland-based Chinyakare Ensemble offers traditional Zimbabwean music and dance that is totally compelling and absolutely beautiful. Founded in 2000 by Zimbabwe's Julia Chigamba, the group emphasizes music and dance as a form of healing and spiritual transformation. Their live performances are not to be missed! Catch Chinyakare Ensemble Friday April 4th at Hertz Hall, UC Berkeley or visit their website.
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Malonga Casquelourd Center for Dance
Malonga Casquelourd was a principal dancer for the National Congolese Dance Company and a heavily celebrated African drummer and choreographer prior to his untimely death in 2003. As a one time resident of Oakland, Malongaʼs influence has impacted the lives of many and spanned generations. Oaklandʼs preeminent space for world dance houses some of the top local companies including Diamano Coura, Fua Dia Congo and Samba Funk while regularly offering classes in West African, Congolese, Guinean, and Samba dance. Look out for Congolese Dance Classes, Monday evenings 7:30-9:00pm, 1428 Alice. St. Visit the Malonga Center for more info.
Young, Gifted & Black
Boasting over 50 youth performers aged 7 - 17, Young, Gifted and Black is Oaklandʼs acclaimed youth poetry performance group that teaches Black History via poetry, rap and song. Founded and directed by respected scholars and community organizers, Laroilyn and Hodari Davis, YGB has performed locally, nationally and internationally. Currently gearing up for a return visit to Ghana in Summer of 2014, YGB offers youth an intimate and powerful medium to learn, share and celebrate their roots. Shaping the next generation to become stronger in voice, character and spirit, YGB is regularly featured in Oratorical Fest competitions, Black History Month celebrations and stages across the Bay Area. Visit Young, Gifted, & Black for a schedule of upcoming performances.
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Taste of Africa Pop-Up Cameroonian Cuisine
On any given Tuesday evening, friends, lovers and connoisseurs of West African food (and good music) can be found at Grand Lakeʼs Room 389. With a sweet soundtrack laid down by DJ Cali and friends, youʼll find Taste of Africa Chef Malong Pendar dishing up some of Cameroonʼs best known dishes, including Ndole, Koki, Sule (my personal favorite), Ewole, Jollof and other specialities. Head's up, the servings are generous and the home made hot sauce might make your head spin. Tuesday nights at Room 389, 389 Grand Ave, Oakland 8PM-11pm (21+).
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Also Be Sure To Catch:
The African American Museum and Library, Miliki Nigerian Cuisine, Enssaro Cafe and Sankofa Vine Accessories. Sistahs of the Drum is the city's all female percussion ensemble. Launching in 2013 as a summertime event, the Umoja Festival and Soccer Tournament returned as an annual community festival in celebration of music, food, family, and physical wellness. Look out for this year's festival Saturday August 16th in West Oakland.