Rocky Dawuni’s Anthem “Shade Tree” Invokes Global Peace
Global music star, Rocky Dawuni releases a gorgeous new video for his recently released single “Shade Tree.” The video, filmed in Salvador, Bahia in Brasil is a picturesque feast of culture, lifestyle and the soulful diversity of its people. The single is the second from the 3x GRAMMY Nominated musician’s forthcoming album which is due to be released in 2024. “Shade Tree” is a timely anthem of empowerment and unity.
Salvador, Bahia is the perfect setting for the video for the song “Shade Tree” as the city itself grew from all of the Africans who were brought there and found each other; creating an incredible nucleus of afro descendent culture – a modern day “cultural shade tree” that is the “roots” connecting Africa to the African Diaspora and to the rest of the globe. The video was directed by Brazilian director Ema Ribeiro and produced by Acesssos Produtora.” “The reason why I worked with Ema is because for me she represents one of the fast rising, cutting edge female directors coming out of Brazil today. Also, since she is a resident of Salvador, her cinematic vision and perspective was an invaluable asset to projecting the global vision of the song.”
The song is based on the concept of the tree that provides shade for all of the various “shades” of humanity. It is a convergence point and an oasis for all people. The shade tree is where conflicts and disagreements can be resolved; it provides “a shelter from the rain” which is shared amongst everyone. Humanity shares this common destiny because we are nature and our destiny is intimately entwined with each other and with all of life just as the roots of the tree. Under the tree we are a community in our individuality. As the lyrics say “we are one, but we are not the same. At a time when Africa is awakening to new political realities and the wider world is grappling with further geo-political divisions, this is a poignant song that reminds people of our shared humanity.
“We live in a time when our world is teetering on a threshold of uncertainty, chaos and cycles of violence which could unravel the very essence of our collective responsibility to live for each other. “Shade Tree” is a musical offering for our uncertain times and a call to invoke the power of empathy to break down every erected wall fashioned through hatred.” – Rocky Dawuni
“Shade Tree,” written by Rocky Dawuni, has additional production by GRAMMY Nominated engineer and musician extraordinaire, Anthony Brewster as well as renown engineer Michael Vail Blum. The song was mixed by multiple GRAMMY Award winning engineer and producer, Qmillion aka Keith Lewis, known for his work on the Robert Glasper “Black Radio” albums, Seun Kuti and more. Drawing from diverse influences and vocals stylings that sometimes recall classic soul singers like Curtis Mayfield and D’Angelo, with a production approach that merges elements of Hip Hop, Reggae and soul stirring social commentary,” Shade Tree” keeps things moving with its irresistible conscious groove heralding a new world of hope.
Rocky Dawuni’s own unique “Afro Roots” sound mixes Roots Reggae, Afrobeat, Highlife, Soul, Pop & more. A galvanizing performer, Dawuni has shared the stage with luminaries including Stevie Wonder, Ozomatli, Peter Gabriel, Yothu Yindi and many more. Rocky was named one of Africa’s Top 10 global stars by CNN having showcased his talent at prestigious venues such as The Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center and The Hollywood Bowl. Rocky is a dedicated activist serving as a UN Goodwill Ambassador for the Environment for Africa and a Global Ambassador the World Day of African and Afro-Descendant Culture as well as head of his own Rocky Dawuni Foundation. Through these and other designations he uses his music to shine a light on crucial issues facing humanity across the globe with live concerts, speaking roles, panels, youth empowerment and much more.
For more information on Rocky Dawuni:
http://www.instagram.com/rockydawuni
http://www.facebook.com/rockydawuni
http://www.twitter.com/rockydawuni
http://www.youtube.com/rockydawunimusic
http://www.rockydawunifoundation.org
Contact:
Cary Sullivan
aquarianrecords@hotmail.com
http://www.rockydawuni.com
