Renowned Senegalese jazz musician Alune Wade captivated audiences in Accra with the premiere of his documentary, Tukk, From Roots to Bayou Documentary, at the Alliance Française in Accra.
The documentary delves into the deep-seated African roots of jazz, aiming to bridge cultural gaps and celebrate the genre’s rich heritage.
Speaking exclusively to MX24 News, Alune addressed shared the motivation behind the creation of the documentary as well as what he hope to achieve with such an initiative.
‘For me, one of the things that inspired the creation of this documentary is keeping the people connected and unified. Also, it is time for us (Africans) to show and teach our stories. This inspired the creation of the film’ – he noted.
He also addressed some common misconceptions about jazz, particularly the belief that it was an art form created by the elite. He emphasized jazz’s origins, highlighting its evolution from a medium of expression for the marginalized to a global musical phenomenon.
“Jazz was born out of the struggles and stories of everyday people. It’s a testament to resilience and creativity, not a product of elitism,” Wade asserted.
The premiere is part of Alune Wade’s broader initiative to promote jazz music and celebrate African culture. His tour across the country aims to reconnect audiences with the authentic roots of jazz, fostering appreciation and understanding of its origins.
The event also marked a significant moment in the ongoing Jazz and World Music Festival, with Alliance Française playing a pivotal role in organizing and hosting the festival’s activities. The festival seeks to spotlight local and international talent, fostering musical exchange and cultural dialogue.
As the festival continues, audiences can look forward to a series of performances, workshops, and discussions, all aimed at celebrating the diverse tapestry of world music and its profound connections to African heritage
