International music sensation Rocky Dawuni’s highly anticipated new CD, Hymns for the Rebel Soul, has been released by Whole Foods Markets.

Dawuni describes the 11-song album, which was recorded during the recent transformative U.S. Presidential election, as an uplifting exploration of social and global consciousness.

The music was crafted to reflect the common spiritual, political and social aspirations felt by people around the world. Hymns for the Rebel Soul features melodic acoustic tracks like “Jerusalem,” a personal ode to the Holy City as well as the poignant social commentary of “Walls Tumblin Down”, the new roughneck anthem “African Reggae Fever” and the Lover’s Rock vibe of “Extraordinary Woman.”

A native of Ghana, Dawuni is one of Africa’s most exciting artists. His unique fusion of reggae, soul and traditional African sounds and combustible live performances, combined with his social commentary and advocacy for a multitude of global causes, has brought him global recognition and resulted in collaborations with organizations including UNICEF, Product (RED) and the Carter Center.

Rocky Dawuni has participated in high-profile compilation projects with the Black Eyed Peas, Jack Johnson and Christina Aguilera, and his music has been featured on the hit series Weeds, ER and Dexter, and in the upcoming Electronic Arts’ video game FIFA Soccer 2010. He can also be seen/heard alongside Bono in the video and song remake of “War /No more Trouble” for the worldwide phenomenon Playing for Change: Songs Around the World CD compilation. In addition, Rocky’s rendition of Bob Marley’s “Sun is Shining” will be featured on the upcoming Putumayo Bob Marley: World Tribute project due in early 2010.

A percentage of Hymns for the Rebel Soul’s proceeds will go to Africa Live!, a non-profit organization founded by Dawuni, whose mission is to preserve, restore, and reinvigorate the Ghanaian live music scene.


Source: Cary Sullivan
AFRICA Live! / AQUARIAN Records