"Bonga" Gaston Jean-Baptiste
Percussion, Vocals, Dance

"Bonga" Gaston Jean-Baptiste (Haitian Percussion) is the spirited virtuoso who has been performing and studying traditional Haitian drum, dance and song since the age of seven in his family peristil (Vodou temple) in the La Plaine region of Haiti. Today, Bonga is one of the few expert craftsmen outside of Haiti who continues to build drums using centuries-old techniques. Using organic instruments such as bamboo, tcha-tcha and ogan, Bonga is a ceremonial drummer with a vast repertoire of pan-African rhythms. He is also a studio musician, accompanist and educator. He has been in the forefront of Racine (roots) music since its beginnings in the late 1970's, recording and performing with such groups as Boukman Eksperyans, Foula and Boukan Guinen. He has appeared at music venues throughout the world, tours regularly with Grace Jones and is featured on recordings by Salif Keita and Wyclef Jean.

http://www.bongamusic.com