I was lucky enough and old enough to study directly with Olatunji. We eventually performed together in Atlanta for the Summer Olympics in late 80's or mid 90's? I forget. He was awesome! He helped in teaching Ibrahima Camara, Senegal and one of the first teachers of djembe and dunun in the U.S. Ibrahima Camara became my premier teacher and Karen an I were his soloists for local shows in New England. He was an amazing presence and had his own study of gentle but firm teaching. We were blessed :) He's at peace now and I hope to catch up to him at sometime!
I was lucky enough to have seen him numerous times with his ensamble of drummers and dancers at concerts, as well as taking two classes from him at Omega Institute. He grabbed my hands one time in class telling me I should take care of them. I feel very lucky. I even got to play Sanga's drum briefly!
