Influenced by the soulful beats of Fela Kuti, the positive messages of Bob Marley and the infectious, sing-along anthems of Michael Franti, K naan and Matisyahu, Rocky Dawuni's songs straddle the musical boundaries between Africa, the Caribbean and the US to create a universally appealing sound that unites generations and cultures.
Rocky is one of the rare African artists to break through to a broad audience - Huffington Post
International music star and humanitarian activist Rocky Dawuni straddles the musical boundaries between Africa, the Caribbean and the U.S. to create an appealing Afro-Roots sound that unites generations and cultures. Filled with uplifting and irresistible songs, Rocky's sixth album, and first on Cumbancha, blends inspirations from his diverse experiences while expanding on his identity as an artist, a proud son of Africa and as a true world citizen.
Inspired by the soulful beats of Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, the positive messages and deep grooves of Bob Marley and the infectious, sing-along anthems of Michael Franti, K'naan and Matisyahu, Rocky Dawuni's songs blend elements of reggae, Afrobeat and global pop into an enticing new sound. The songs on 'Branches of the Same Tree' also reflect influences of New Orleans funk, Brazilian samba, even the lilting sounds of Hawaiian ukulele, seamlessly integrated into a unique and approachable style. The album features appearances by an all-star lineup of guest musicians, including veterans from Michael Franti and Spearhead, Steel Pulse, Ben Harper and The Innocent Criminals and Ziggy Marley. Already a superstar in West Africa with a devoted international fan base, Branches of the Same Tree promises to bring Rocky's music to even wider audiences around the world.
Born in Ghana and based in Los Angeles, Rocky is a galvanizing performer whose infectious grooves and dance-inducing anthems have consistently excited fans. Blessed with easy-going charisma, Rocky has performed and collaborated with Stevie Wonder, Peter Gabriel, Bono, Jason Mraz, Janelle Monae and John Legend, among many others. Named one of Africa s Top 10 global stars by CNN, he s showcased his talent around the world at major festivals and prestigious venues such as The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and The Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.
Rocky's eloquence, cultural diplomacy and successful melding of music and activism have led him to become a passionate spokesperson for various global causes. He has joined forces with Product (RED), UNICEF, the Carter Center and the UN Foundation. In 2012, Rocky was appointed the Tourism and Cultural Ambassador of Ghana and World Ambassador for the Musicians Union of Ghana. The same year, he was named a United Nations Foundation Ambassador for the Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves, alongside actress Julia Roberts and chef Jose Andres.
According to Rocky, 'Branches of the Same Tree' was inspired by the songs and melodies I have heard over the years during my travels. It contains snippets of my personal observations of various cultures and global musical developments.'
The album's title reflects Rocky's belief that recognition of our shared humanity is the key to peaceful coexistence among all peoples of the world. 'When we recognize we are all branches of the same tree we begin to see our common roots,' asserts Rocky, 'this is the cornerstone of true Oneness.'
Reflecting his maturity as an artist, 'Branches of the Same Tree' highlights Dawuni's ability to communicate a universal, uplifting message that crosses borders and reaches out to the hearts of millions.