Okai Musik‘s dedication to his craft knows no bounds. He has immersed himself in the rich tapestry of rhythms from the African diaspora, mastering Bomba on the Barril drum from Puerto Rico, Rumba and Son from Cuba on Congas, Vodou rhythms from Haiti on the Rada and Petwo drums, Cumbia and Bullerengue from Colombia on the Alegre drum, and West African rhythms on the Djembe drum, among others. His passion for exploring and preserving these diverse musical traditions showcases his commitment to honoring and sharing the cultural heritage and history of these communities.
As a talented M.C. and producer, Okai showcases his creativity across many genres. His notable works include the albums “Tonight We Fly” (Afrohouse) from Oyasound, “Dekonstruktion of the Mind” (Hip-Hop), and “Int’l Party” (Regime Change). Collaborating with singers, rappers, and producers, Okai crafts a unique sound that resonates with listeners worldwide. He is also a co-founder and lead vocalist for Strings N Skins, alongside Grammy-winning violinist La Lulu from Colombia, and the lead vocalist of the acclaimed group Brown Rice Family, which won the WNYC 2012 Battle of the Boroughs championship. Okai‘s exceptional talent even led him to perform at the Haitian Ambassador’s Ball in Bogota, Colombia, showcasing his percussion skills to the Colombian government.
In addition to percussion, Okai is a seasoned conch shell player with a decade of experience. Playing the conch shell is a heartfelt ode to his Haitian ancestors and the indigenous Arawak and Taino people of the Caribbean. Through the evocative sounds of the conch shell, Okai ensures that the spirits of his forebears are not forgotten. The conch shell serves as a universal healing instrument, resonating in ceremonies and communication across cultures like India, Tibet, Nepal, Hawaii, and Ancient America. Okai‘s dedication to this ancient art form transcends borders, creating a harmonious bridge between tradition and contemporary expression.
In the realm of dance, Okai‘s rhythmic talents have been sought after by renowned dance ensembles such as Soles of Duende, Bombazo Dance Company, Kimani Fowlin, Renegade Dance Company, and Ase Dance Company. His rhythmic artistry has resonated through prestigious venues like Jacob’s Pillow, Bates Dance Festival, Gibney Dance, The Joyce Theater, Chelsea Factory, Drew University Dance Department, and Mark Morris Dance Company.
In addition to his performance career, Okai is a
dedicated teaching artist. He imparts his knowledge through
collaborations with NYC-based non-profits, including Little Orchestra,
BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music), Haiti Cultural Exchange, Town Hall,
Brooklyn Museum, and the Department of Education. He has facilitated
drum and beat-making workshops at Carnegie Hall and Ifetayo, inspiring
musicians and fostering a deeper appreciation for percussion and
producing. Okai‘s commitment to education and community outreach
underscores his role as a cultural ambassador, spreading the joy of
music and empowering others through his teachings. https://okaimusik.com/
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