About Massamba

Perhaps best known for his collaboration on Marvel's groundbreaking Black Panther soundtrack, where his drumming served as the heartbeat of King Tchalla's theme music, Massamba's influence extends far beyond the silver screen. His rhythmic prowess has graced stages across the world, from joining Mumford and Sons on their 2016 tour to making appearances on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Notably, Massamba's involvement in Playing For Change's album "Listen to the Music" further solidified his reputation as a musical force to be reckoned with.

But Massamba's musical journey began long before his Hollywood acclaim. As the lead percussionist and founding member of Daande Lenol (The Voice of the People), the band of Senegalese superstar Baaba Maal, Massamba has been at the forefront of West African music for decades. Their collaborations have taken them to all corners of the globe, sharing stages with renowned musical figures and releasing numerous albums, including the Grammy-nominated "Firin' in Fouta."

Massamba's collaborations read like a who's who of the music industry, having performed and recorded with luminaries such as James Brown, Carlos Santana, Herbie Hancock, Harry Belafonte, and Angelique Kidjo, among others. His contributions to Peter Gabriel's seminal album "Passion," which won a Grammy in 1990, further underscore his status as a musical luminary.

Beyond his impressive discography, Massamba has also been a stalwart advocate for cultural exchange and education. In 1993, he co-founded the Senegal-America project with American percussionist Tony Vacca, facilitating annual cultural exchanges that bring students and adults alike to Senegal to participate in educational, healthcare, and artistic projects. Each year, Massamba and Tony tour the Northeast, offering performances, school programs, and workshops that celebrate the rich tapestry of West African culture.

Despite his international acclaim, Massamba remains deeply rooted in his Senegalese heritage. Currently calling Columbus, Ohio home, he continues to travel the world, spreading the joy of West African rhythms wherever he goes. With his infectious energy and unwavering passion for music, Massamba Diop stands as a true ambassador of Senegalese culture, leaving an indelible mark on the global music scene for generations to come.