Obakunle Akinlana is a storyteller who uses drums, shekeres, and other African musical instruments to present fun and exciting traditional African folktales. Since starting his professional career in 1971, Akinlana has performed as a storyteller, lecturer and percussionist throughout the United States and West Africa. Akinlana is a published writer, recording artist, and producer of the Igunnuko African Heritage Festival that is held in Charlotte and draws over 25,000 people. He travels annually to Africa to learn traditional stories and observe and perform with African griots and musicians.
Stories, Songs and Music For All Ages!
His programs focus on the arts and folklore of the Yoruba people of Southwest Nigeria, a culture he has studied for over 40 years. Akinlana performs at festivals, colleges, universities, community centers, libraries, schools and other events. He encourages audience participation in all performances. All performances and programs meet the North Carolina School performance standards in music, language, social studies and art.
I have performed here, there and everywhere!
- Afro-American Cultural Center – Charlotte NC
- Avante at Charlotte – Charlotte NC
- Barber-Scotia College – Concord NC
- Beaufort County Arts Council – Washington NC
- Bethune Arts Center – North Charleston SC
- Cabarrus County Schools – NC
- Carrboro Arts Center – Carrboro NC
- Central Piedmont Community College – Charlotte NC
- Ch Festival – Wytheville VA
- Charleston Museum – Charleston SC. More
CHIEF OBAKUNLE AKINLANA 