Ghanian-born lead singer of Soulfege, Derrick Ashong, aka DNA, waxed poetic in support for Obama’s presidential run at a recent rally in Hollywood, CA. DNA was interviewed, ok “ambushed” by an identified reporter only referred to as “Mike?” outside the Kodak Theatre. I am unsure what Mike’s motive’s were nor did I care for his interview tactics, but I don’t think that he was prepared to run into a lyrically-armed, Harvard-educated African.
There are also some answers offered to those who misinterpret Obama’s message of hope as “empty rhetoric”, yes we are looking at you Mr. Project Innovation.
We’ll do our best to follow up on the music of Soulfege and Derrick in short order. In the mean time, spread the word on this video and please sound off in the comments if you know any other African luminaries hiding in the West and in need of a stage. We’ll do our best to promote (and recruit) them to the cause.
fam
July 27, 2008 at 1:25 pmHi,
I’m one of the lead vocalists in “Afropolitan Fusion” band Soulfège and I just came across your post. Thanks for spreading the word! I wanted to give you a heads up on our latest project.
On July 15th Soulfège released the digital version of our new record “Take Back the Mic,” which is our statement on the power of music with meaning.
The album was recorded in Accra, Boston, NY, LA & Kingston and as such we are particularly interested in reaching out to our “Afropolitan” community. I was wondering if you might be interested in writing a review of the album. If so, I can send you a private link where you can download the tracks for free.
Soulfège (‘sOl-fezh) has had an incredible year w/ multiple award nominations and some wonderful media attention, in addition to a viral YouTube sensation surrounding bandleader, Ghanaian native Ashong (aka DNA) and his informed response to an aggressive reporter outside the Obama Clinton debate in LA. You can learn a little more about him from this bio video and more about the band from this recent Vanity Fair Article:
Ashong Bio Reel
http://ashongventures.com/
Vanity Fair
http://www.vanityfair.com/online/daily/2008/04/david-friend-af.html
Let me know if you’d be willing to spread the word on your blog and if there are any other outlets, blogs or email lists you think we should reach out to. Thanks a bunch for your help and I hope to hear from you soon.
Peace,
fam
TMS Ruge
July 29, 2008 at 10:46 amYes, I would love to review the tracks for sure. Head on over to my site at http://tmsruge.com and send me the link via the contact form. Can’t wait to hear the new samplings. I’ll try to get the word out in my “sphere” and see who’d like to push it for you…
Good luck!