Papa Zumana Diarra, my father, has gone to be with the ancestors. He was a fantastic djembefola and master percussionist who changed the way the djembe is played worldwide. He brought a lifelong skill and comedic musically that begged the audience to participate in dance. He spoke through his djembe and djundjun better than he could with his words, and the world rejoiced in it.

 

On May 31st, Papa was at a studio in Sacramento after a show. He complained about not feeling well and asked to get some rest. He was found unresponsive the next day. Although we are comforted that he was surrounded by his wives (his drums), we still want to bring his body home to my grandmother in Ivory Coast. Papa traveled to the United States in 1999 and has blessed us with ingenuity on the drums and joy of laughter through the stories that accompanied the music. He toured the world and brought joy to the hearts of children at Disneyland as well as enhance the musicality of dancers from New York to California.

 

Everyone who's ever met Papa has a tale. People who knew him have adventures. The one's who respected him have lessons.

My family and I encourage all of you who have met or who knew Papa to send in encouraging words or post photos, videos, and anecdotes on his facebook page. If you feel inspired to donate towards the fund to take his body home, we will greatly appreciate it. We will keep everyone posted on the memorial in Sacramento, New York and Abidjan.