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Afro-Cuban

The group Obiní Batá has taught dozens on women how to play Afro-Cuban drums since it started in the early 1990s.

How a group of Cuban female musicians claimed a drum — and a tradition

Music

The legendary group Obiní Batá is celebrating 30 years of music and women’s empowerment in Cuba. But the road to acceptance and success was not easy. 

Cuba flag on wall.

Cuba expands rights but rejects radical change in updated constitution

Global Politics
Three women on stage gesticulating, one with blackface pounding her chest

A Miami theater group has a change of heart over blackface

Arts, Culture & Media
Afro-Cuban jazz singer Daymé Arocena performs during the New Era concert in Havana, 2016.

Cuba’s Daymé Arocena found her religion through music

Music
The World

Twin sisters follow their dad’s Buena Vista Social Club roots into Afro-Caribbean music

Music
The World

Traditional Jewish tunes get Afro-Cuban redux

Arts, Culture & Media

For our Global Hit Monday, we’re playing a fusion of sorts, a mix of the pounding, hip-swaying drums of Afro-Cuban jazz and lilting New York Jewish tunes. Lonny Shavelson went to a concert in San Francisco featuring that musical mashup.

The World

Global Hit – Yusa

Arts, Culture & Media

Cuban music beyond the Buena Vista Social Club: The World’s Marco Werman introduces us to the island’s version of Joni Mitchell, a troubadour and eclectic songwriter named Yusa.