Babatunde Lea

Renowned Percussionist and Composer: Babatunde Lea is a highly acclaimed percussionist, drummer, and composer known for his mastery of African and Afro-Cuban rhythms. Born in New York City, Lea has dedicated his career to exploring the rich traditions of African diasporic music and infusing them with his own unique style and vision. His innovative approach to percussion has earned him recognition as one of the foremost percussionists in contemporary jazz and world music.

Collaborations with Jazz Giants: Babatunde Lea has collaborated with numerous jazz legends throughout his career, including Pharoah Sanders, Stan Getz, McCoy Tyner, and Joe Henderson, among others. His dynamic percussion work has been featured on a wide range of recordings, showcasing his ability to elevate and enhance the music of some of the most revered figures in jazz history. Lea's collaborations have earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his reputation as a sought-after musician in the jazz world.

Exploration of Cultural Roots: Through his music, Babatunde Lea explores the cultural roots and spiritual traditions of the African diaspora, drawing inspiration from West African drumming, Afro-Cuban rhythms, and African-American musical traditions. He infuses his compositions with elements of jazz, funk, blues, and gospel, creating a rich tapestry of sound that reflects the diversity and interconnectedness of African diasporic cultures. Lea's music serves as a celebration of heritage and a testament to the enduring power of rhythm and melody.

Solo Career and Discography: In addition to his work as a sideman and collaborator, Babatunde Lea has released several solo albums as a bandleader, showcasing his talents as a composer and arranger. Albums like "Levels of Consciousness" (1997), "Soul Pools" (2000), and "Umbo Weti: A Tribute to Leon Thomas" (2015) highlight Lea's versatility as a musician and his ability to weave together diverse musical influences into cohesive and compelling musical statements. His solo recordings have garnered critical praise for their creativity, depth, and soulful expression.

Educator and Mentor: Beyond his performance and recording career, Babatunde Lea is also an accomplished educator and mentor, sharing his knowledge and passion for music with students of all ages. He has conducted workshops, masterclasses, and residencies at universities, schools, and community centers around the world, inspiring aspiring musicians to explore the rich traditions of African diasporic music and develop their own unique artistic voices. Lea's dedication to music education and mentorship reflects his commitment to preserving and passing on the legacy of African diasporic m