In this week's episode, we chat with Elizabeth Rodriguez of OKAN. Elizabeth reflects on the profound impact of her African ancestry on their music and takes us through her journey from classical music to rediscovering her roots in Cuban music and improvisation. She talks about the role of music in driving social change and how her personal experiences inspire her songwriting. Elizabeth also opens up about the challenges of parenting while pursuing a career in the music industry, highlighting the importance of belief, adaptability, and having a solid support system to navigate the ups and downs.
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About OKAN
Charged with the profound power of their African ancestry. OKAN takes their name from the word for heart in the Afro-Cuban religion of Santeria. Fusing these Cuban roots with jazz, folk and global rhythms, OKAN delivers songs about immigration, resistance and joy in Spanish, Yoruba and Spanglish. Hot off their Tiny Desk NPR Alt Latino debut and a tour supporting Grammy-winners Rodrigo y Gabriela, OKAN’s recent release Okantomi was awarded the 2024 Juno Award and included in NPR Alt Latino, Le Monde, and CBC Music’s “Best of 2023” lists. OKAN is co-led by Cuban-born Grammy & Latin-Grammy nominees: violinist and vocalist Elizabeth Rodriguez and her wife, percussionist & vocalist Magdelys Savigne.
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Tune in to the latest episodes of the Refolkus Podcast, featuring the latest music releases from Folk Canada members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops.
Presented by Folk Canada
Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett
Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett
Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin
Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac
Artwork by Jaymie Karn