Biography
The Djobi Ensemble play original and authentic music from West Africa bringing the dance right out of your soul. The ensemble’s high-energy performances captivates the audiences to their feet with songs to sing, and dance. People say they bring drumming to a whole new level here in the US. They play music from Emmanuel’s village and original composition written here from Kimberly Djo Bi; both with dancers. The African authentic mask dances such as Zaouli, Boloye and more are played with both drum and dance.. They play with Djembes, dun duns, balafon, and other traditional instruments. Emmanuel Djo Bi, the lead drummer is native to Ivory Coast, Africa. He took his career as a lead drummer of the Ivory Coast orchestra to the USA. Kimberly Djo Bi trained for over 24 years on the djembe and dun duns, from travelling to Africa a few times and many states in the USA; now has original pieces and choreography. She has traveled all over the US learning the djembe, teaching, and coordinating drum circles. Combining their love for each other and music, they help resonate the vibration when they play. The Ensemble has performed and taught at the Michigan Renaissance Festival, Pagan Pride, ‘Touch of Magic’ show, taught at Starwood, and much more. Djobi Ensemble’s studio is located in Toledo, Ohio.