Friday, September 11, 2009

Who's the boss?

King Sunny Ade - a.k.a. the Minister of Enjoyment and The Chairman - is a giant of African music. More than a few big players have graced the Black Sheep Stage, but he may be the biggest. He's been around for some time, and is probably one of the first big "world music" star. He's also released a ton of records. While he's not Acid Mothers Temple, he's still managed to pump out about 125 records since getting his start in the 1960s.

King Sunny Ade's crew were probably the best-dressed of the festival. Here's the congo player.

King Sunny Ade at Ottawa Bluesfest 2009

No shortage of percussionists, as is often the case with world music acts on the Black Sheep Stage.

King Sunny Ade at Ottawa Bluesfest 2009

Some Stratocaster-toting action.

King Sunny Ade at Ottawa Bluesfest 2009

Here's a few more band members ...

King Sunny Ade at Ottawa Bluesfest 2009

And the King himself!

King Sunny Ade at Ottawa Bluesfest 2009

Backup singer action!

King Sunny Ade at Ottawa Bluesfest 2009

Wavealong action! Ade's roly-poly accompanist certainly seemed to be enjoying himself.

King Sunny Ade at Ottawa Bluesfest 2009

Shaking action!

King Sunny Ade at Ottawa Bluesfest 2009

King Sunny Ade at Ottawa Bluesfest 2009

Some of the whole lot!

King Sunny Ade at Ottawa Bluesfest 2009

Circular dancing action!

King Sunny Ade at Ottawa Bluesfest 2009

Pass it along ...

King Sunny Ade at Ottawa Bluesfest 2009

Lots of fun, though I confess I did sneak off to see DeVotchKa again as their set came to a close.

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