Drummer Featured on ‘Black Panther’ Visits Champlin Park High School
Massamba Diop from Senegal in West Africa is the featured talking drum player in the Marvel movie “Black Panther.” He visited the world drumming class at Champlin Park High School and played with students.
“To have a master craftsman who is also a pop icon hero is really exciting for us,” said teacher Steve Lyons. “Our students are in for a super treat today.”
Students knew it too. Students involved in the World Drumming Class came to campus on the Thursday of spring break just for the opportunity of playing with Diop.
“I think it was pretty cool. I didn’t expect it to be this many people around,” said Jakarga Davis.
Friends and family came out to watch.
“It’s really awesome. To believe that someone as big and to play with them, is a great honor to have,” said Abdirahman Adan.
Massamba Diop visited Champlin Park High School.
Massamba Diop plays the talking drum and uses his instrument to interact with the audience. He enjoys sharing his culture and music with others.
“You love it. I love that. I say ‘Thank you God. God has given me those things,” said Diop.
Heart and Soul Drum Academy out of St. Paul’s Rondo community helped bring Diop to Champlin Park. The founders were on hand for the performance.
“Teach a kid how to do something. Every kid with a heartbeat has a rhythm. We teach them how to use their hands and they stay out of trouble, do what they are supposed to do and act right in school,” explains founder Jesse Bucker when talking about Heart and Soul’s mission. “Music has the best power in the world. When you are down and out, turn a song on. When you are down and out, listen to Massamba’s talking drum.”
Before telephones and radio, the talking drum was used to communicate between villages. Massamba Diop’s drum speaks a noble message that he is happy to share with youth.
“When I come to America, I teach young people to understand,” said Diop. “What right way are they going to choose.”
