Wazumbians
The month of March has generally been recognised as a time to showcase different aspects of Ghanaian culture, and the Wazumbians band is set to present another edition of its Jankalanga Festival at the +233 Jazz Bar & Grill in Accra on March 22.
Started in 2018 as an online showcase of traditional and contemporary Ghanaian rhythms, stories, and dances, the Jankalanga Festival later evolved into a live event and has gradually established itself as a captivating stage presentation.
Returning home last December from its third consecutive tour of the United States, the band, led by Francis Chapman Abban-Hagan, widely known as Wazumbi, remains committed to making its music accessible and enjoyable for audiences.
“We are messengers of good musical vibes, and if the message isn’t delivered in a way that people can happily consume, they will just tune us out and turn away. We don’t want that to happen. That’s why we embrace so much of what is ours and share it with people,” the band’s leader said.
This year’s Jankalanga Festival will feature guest performances by King Ayisoba, Bessa Simons, Fanta Cissokho from Senegal, and a surprise artiste from Canada.
“Whenever you hear the Wazumbians, you know right away that it’s them,” says the renowned Bessa Simons. “You cannot mistake them for any other band. There is wonderful cohesion among the members as they stay true to their unique style, and I always love to hear them.”
During their four-month tour of the United States in 2024, the Wazumbians also made a brief trip to Colombia, where they performed at the Festival Voces Del Jazz. Their numerous performances across the US were equally well received.
The band is eager to showcase the unique elements that make it such a thrilling live act to music and culture lovers attending the Jankalanga Festival 2025.