Blending With Zansa

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Blending With Zansa

  • Zansa AfroBlog

    The music of Zansa, a Nouchi slang word from Ivory Coast meaning “combination” or “blend,” is a synthesis of traditional and modern styles of West African music. The Asheville, NC-...
Zansa is led by 33rd generation West African musician Adama Dembele, a native of Ivory Coast, whose family lineage is recognized internationally as “Djembeso” or House of the Djembe. With years of international performing experience, Dembele relocated to Asheville, NC in 2005 to start his own project. With Zansa, he has continued to develop and expand his sound, now singing in multiple languages- French, Baoule, Bambara, and English, creating a multicultural mix of original songs, traditional stories, and impassioned music.    Today, Zansa is taking those traditional African songs and rhythms and incorporating Western instruments, such as electric guitar, acoustic and electric violins, bass, and drum set, offering a wide range of sonic possibilities. The music is rooted in the West African drumming tradition Dembele was born into and blended with a modern approach, lending familiarity to foreign sounds. The result is an original take on the authentic music of West Africa.   Upcoming Events:   June 5-  Zansa and Lush Life Productions present:  Soumu- A celebration of African music, dance, food, and culture.  Live at The Orange Peel.  Featuring: Zansa, master Ivorian dancer Barakissa Coulibaly, Mande Foly, Lisa Zahiya, African food vendors, African art, special guests. 6:00pm doors 7:00pm showtime $12/15   June 6- Zansa with Diali Cissokho & Kaira Ba Haw River Ballroom Saxapahaw, NC 8:00pm $10/12   August 7- Zansa live at Find Your Cool Summer Concert Series Durham, NC 7:00pm