From the bustling streets of Lagos to prestigious stages across the Middle East, Nigerian percussionist and cultural performer Michael Oluwashola Akinbode is using the power of African drums to tell stories, bridge cultures and promote global unity.
Having performed in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and Egypt, Akinbode has spent more than a decade championing https://cdn.guardian.ng/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/fast1645-300×169.webp
African heritage through the universal language of rhythm.
Specialising in djembe, conga, traditional African percussion, Arabic percussion, and Japanese percussion instruments such as the Nagado and Shime drums, he has become a sought-after performer at multicultural events, corporate engagements, and cultural festivals across Africa and the Middle East.
In this interview with The Guardian, Akinbode reflects on his journey, his passion for African culture, and his mission to unite people through music.
How It All Began
Akinbode’s love for drumming began at an early age. Growing up in Lagos, he was influenced by traditional Yoruba music, church choirs, family celebrations, and community gatherings.
“Drumming has always been a part of me. It is more than music; it is communication, storytelling, history and spirit,” he said.
According to him, African drums serve a deeper purpose beyond entertainment.
“African drums are more than instruments. They are voices of history, unity, communication, celebration, and healing. My goal is to preserve African culture while connecting people from different backgrounds through rhythm and positive energy.”
He began performing professionally more than a decade ago and has since entertained audiences across Nigeria and several countries in the Middle East.
More Than Performance
Beyond entertaining audiences, Akinbode is passionate about education and cultural exchange.
Through drum-circle experiences and interactive performances, he teaches participants about African traditions while promoting teamwork, leadership, collaboration, respect, and unity.
“When people drum together, barriers disappear. We listen, we connect, and we become one,” he said.
Promoting African Culture Globally
For Akinbode, every performance is an opportunity to showcase Africa’s rich cultural heritage and challenge stereotypes about the continent.
“I see myself as a cultural ambassador. Every performance is an opportunity to showcase the beauty, depth, and rich history of Africa,” he said.
He continues to collaborate with artists, cultural organisations and event organisers on projects aimed at promoting African identity and positive cultural representation on the global stage.
Akinbode revealed that he is currently working on several international projects that blend African percussion with other art forms through cross-cultural collaborations.
“This is just the beginning. I want to inspire the next generation and take African rhythm to even bigger platforms around the world,” he said.
Through his music, message and mission, Michael Oluwashola Akinbode is demonstrating that African drums do far more than create sound—they tell stories, preserve heritage and unite people across cultures and continents.