Legendary Percussionist • Jazz Artist • Theater Performer

With a career spanning decades, Baba Don Babatunde has performed alongside jazz legends including Donald Brown, Joe Henderson, Pharaoh Sanders, and The Last Poets. His rhythm has graced prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall, the Metropolitan Opera House, and the Kennedy Center.

"Baba Don's percussion isn't just music—it's a storytelling experience that connects generations through rhythm."

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Watch Baba Don's percussion performance

Artistic Journey & Expertise

Discover the diverse skills and experiences that define Baba Don's musical career

Percussion Mastery

Expert in traditional African drums, jazz percussion, and contemporary world rhythms with decades of performance experience.

Teaching Experience

Comprehensive drum workshops and private lessons for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced percussionists.

Theater Productions

Featured percussionist for major theater productions including Classical Theatre of Harlem and Broadway collaborations.

Studio Recording

Extensive studio experience with jazz legends and contemporary artists, contributing to numerous recordings.

International Performances

Performed at prestigious venues worldwide including Carnegie Hall, Metropolitan Opera House, and Kennedy Center.

Collaborations

Worked with jazz legends, theater companies, and cultural ensembles across different genres and styles.

The Art of Percussion in Motion

Experience the rhythmic journey of Baba Don through these captivating animations that visualize the energy, passion, and artistry behind every beat. These animations showcase the transformative power of percussion across cultures and musical genres.

From traditional African rhythms to contemporary jazz fusion, watch as the story of percussion unfolds in dynamic visual representations that complement Baba Don's musical philosophy.

Rhythm Visualization

Animation 1
An artistic representation of percussion rhythms transforming into visual patterns, showing the connection between sound and movement.
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Benga Animation

Animation 2
A vibrant animation inspired by traditional African rhythms and the Benga style, capturing the energy and spirit of cultural percussion.
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What These Animations Capture

The fluid movement between different percussion styles, the connection between musician and instrument, and the universal language of rhythm that transcends cultural boundaries. Each animation offers a unique perspective on how rhythm tells stories through movement.

NEW RELEASE
The Art of Rhythm - Book Cover
The Art of Rhythm
by Baba Don Babatunde

The Art of Rhythm

A Journey Through Percussion

This comprehensive guide takes you through the rich history, techniques, and philosophies of percussion from around the world. Written by master percussionist Baba Don Babatunde, this book distills decades of experience into an accessible format for both beginners and advanced musicians.

34
Pages
2024
Edition
  • Comprehensive Guide: Covers African, Latin, Jazz, and Contemporary percussion styles
  • Step-by-Step Lessons: From basic rhythms to advanced techniques
  • Cultural Context: Explore the historical and cultural significance of each rhythm
  • Practice Exercises: Over 50 exercises with difficulty progression
  • Online Resources: Access to video tutorials and audio examples

"This book is more than just a guide—it's a journey into the heart of rhythm. Whether you're picking up drumsticks for the first time or looking to deepen your understanding, 'The Art of Rhythm' will be your companion on this musical path."
— Baba Don Babatunde

MASTER GUIDE
Master the Art of Percussion - Book Cover
Master the Art of Percussion
by Baba Don Babatunde

Master the Art of Percussion

The Complete Percussionist's Handbook

An in-depth exploration of percussion techniques, rhythms, and performance practices from around the world. This master guide builds upon decades of professional experience and teaching, offering insights that will transform your approach to drumming and rhythm.

26
Pages
2024
Edition
26
Exercises
  • Advanced Techniques: Master complex rhythms, polyrhythms, and improvisation
  • Global Rhythms: Explore percussion traditions from Africa, Latin America, Asia, and beyond
  • Performance Tips: Professional advice for stage presence, audience engagement, and live performance
  • Instrument Care: Complete guide to maintaining and tuning percussion instruments
  • Teaching Resources: Structured lesson plans and teaching methodologies

"This book represents a lifetime of learning, performing, and teaching percussion. It's designed to take you from understanding the basics to mastering complex rhythms, whether you're a student, teacher, or professional musician."
— Baba Don Babatunde

Baba Don - Percussion Animation
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Ready to Experience the Rhythm?

Book a workshop, collaborate on a project, or learn the art of percussion from a master. Connect with Baba Don today.