The Smithsonian Museum of African Art invites you to immerse yourself in the rich musical traditions of the African diaspora with the Sounds of Africa concert series, a celebration of the vibrant and diverse sounds that have shaped cultures around the world.
We are celebrating 60 years of African Art in the District with the National Museum of African Art.
The National Museum of African Art's Sounds of Africa concert series features music from the African diaspora. This ongoing series, which runs through November 16, brings together a stellar lineup of artists who are pushing the boundaries of music from Africa while honoring its roots.
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Free Concert Series
The Smithsonian is sponsoring a series of free concerts to share the Sounds of Africa, a tribute to the music of the African Diaspora.
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Each concert in the Sounds of Africa series is not just a performance but a celebration of the enduring influence of African music across the globe.
Join us at the Smithsonian Museum of African Art for an unforgettable musical journey that celebrates the past, present, and future of African music.
Concert Lineup
The concert series kicks off on July 19 from 7pm to 10pm with Grammy-nominated Malian musician Cheikh Hamala Diabaté!
Dubbed "King of the n’goni," the West African stringed instrument related to the banjo, Cheikh Hamala Diabaté has long explored the connection between America’s traditions and his own griot roots. Born into a griot family in Kita, Mali, he travels all over the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia, performing and teaching. Diabaté is first cousin to kora master Toumani Diabate, and nephew to Super Rail Band guitarist, Djelimady Tounkara.
On August 24 from 7-10 pm, the series features the Tewodros “Teddy” Aklilu Band with special guest Munit Mesfin.
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Tewodros “Teddy” Aklilu, an acclaimed Ethiopian pianist and keyboardist, has been a cornerstone of the Washington, D.C. music scene for years. Known for his dynamic performances with the renowned D.C. group Admas, Aklilu continues to push the boundaries of EthioJazz, a genre that blends traditional Ethiopian music with jazz, funk, and soul.
On September 28, as part of the museum's Community Day from 4-7 pm, the Artist Collective will take the stage, showcasing a collaborative performance that highlights the communal and creative spirit of African art and music.
On October 26, the series continues with a dynamic double feature from 7-10 pm: Crank Lukongo and Dior Ashley Brown and the Filthy Animals.
Crank Lukongo brings a fresh take on Go-Go, D.C.'s signature sound, infusing it with Afrobeat rhythms and contemporary flair. Dior Ashley Brown, a D.C.
The series concludes on November 16 from 7-10 pm with Dokun Afrotonics Afrobeat Band featuring Wunmi. This performance will be a high-energy celebration of Afrobeat, the genre pioneered by Fela Kuti that combines traditional Nigerian music with jazz, funk, and political consciousness.
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On Saturday November 15, 2025 from 7pm to 10pm, don't miss Armand Ntep, a unique vocalist and innovative composer. His varied style includes his silky baritone, Pygmy syncopation, and tenor ballads.
Sounds of Africa Concert Schedule
| Date | Time | Artist |
|---|---|---|
| July 19 | 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Cheikh Hamala Diabaté |
| August 24 | 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Tewodros “Teddy” Aklilu Band with Munit Mesfin |
| September 28 | 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM | Artist Collective |
| October 26 | 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Crank Lukongo and Dior Ashley Brown and the Filthy Animals |
| November 16 | 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Dokun Afrotonics Afrobeat Band featuring Wunmi |
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