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Babatunde Michael Olatunji was a Grammy-winning Nigerian drummer, percussionist, and educator who brought African rhythms to global prominence. Born in Ajido, Badagry, he earned a Rotary Scholarship to Morehouse College, where he formed a drum and dance troupe to reshape perceptions of Africa. While studying at NYU, his performances drew Columbia Records’ John Hammond, leading to the 1959 release of "Drums of Passi," a million-selling album that introduced Americans to African music. He later composed for "A Raisin in the Sun," collaborated on "She’s Gotta Have It," and co-founded Harlem’s Olatunji Center of African Culture. In 1991, his Grammy-winning collaboration "Planet Drum" with Mickey Hart reignited his global influence. Olatunji also taught across institutions, led workshops in Ghana, and earned an honorary doctorate from Medgar Evers College. He passed in 2003, leaving a rhythmic legacy that still inspires "The Drummers and Dancers of Passion."
Tears of Johnnesburg2020 • AlbumTracks: 10 Rhythms of Africa2014 • AlbumTracks: 21 Uhuru: Drums Over Africa2012 • AlbumTracks: 6 Incantations2011 • AlbumTracks: 7 Love Drum Talk1997 • AlbumTracks: 8 Circle of Drums1993 • AlbumTracks: 6 Drums of Passion: The Invocation1988 • AlbumTracks: 6 Drums of Passion: The Beat1986 • AlbumTracks: 6 Soul Makossa1973 • AlbumTracks: 5 More Drums of Passion1966 • AlbumTracks: 8 Flaming Drums!1962 • AlbumTracks: 6 Drums of Passion1959 • AlbumTracks: 9 Jin Go Lo Ba - The Drums of Passion1958 • AlbumTracks: 8 Record Label associated with Babatunde Olatunji - past and current. 