Multi-instrumentalist and educator Derrick D’Mar Martin reconnects his roots through ‘The Taste Of Afrika’ initiative

Derrick D’Mar Martin behind the drum set

He outbursted in the excitement that his dream of reconnecting with his roots after a long disconnect tracing back to the slave days has finally materialized through ‘The Taste Of Afrika’ architectural and dynamic creative initiative with a realistic longer-term vision. In an exclusive chit-chat with the founders of ‘The Taste Of Afrika’, D’Mar was enthusiastic about how our forefathers used the rhythm of drums and other instruments to communicate and entertain.

Derrick D’Mar Martin is a professional with 30 years of experience in the American music industry who has toured the world and also worked with some of the most revered music icons the universe has upheld for decades like Dorothy Moore, Bobby Rush, Vastie Jackson, Ali Woodson of  (The Temptations), Big Jack Johnson, Carla Thomas, Billy Preston, Roy Gaines, Mitch Woods, Jackie Payne, Syl Johnson, Bob Margolin and  Tutu Jones just to name a few. On top of that, he’s a producer, songwriter, percussionist, and educator specialising in drums, instruments and history. It’s important to note that, he traveled the world for 17 years as the lead drummer for the legendary Little Richard.

Derrick D’Mar Martin at a concert

The Taste Of Afrika on the other hand is a powerful initiative put together by a like-minded group of people who are focused on creating cultural awareness, economic empowerment, uniting the diaspora all over the world, creating a platform to unify black music legends with music stars on the rise through art, music, culture and heritage.

D’Mar’s goals and vision align with that of The Taste Of Afrika. For this reason, he’s 2000% certain about moving back to Africa to reconnect with his roots, share resourceful ideas, resources, and common interests, and create cultural awareness to attract other diaspora communities to achieve a greater goal to make Africa a better place for her children.

Story by: John Claude Tamakloe.