Join Sir Daniel on Wake Up with Dee on WAOK for an inspiring conversation with Atlanta’s master cellist, Okorie "OkCello" Johnson. Renowned for his innovative fusion of classical, jazz, EDM, reggae, and funk, OkCello weaves live-sound-looping, improvisation, and storytelling into captivating performances that explore African Diasporic narratives and challenge perceptions of the cello as a strictly classical instrument. His collaborations with music icons like India.Arie, De La Soul, Big Boi of OutKast, and Maxwell, along with his recent appearance on the Tamron Hall Show, highlight his growing influence in the music world.
The cello, with its rich, emotive tone, has historically been associated with European classical traditions, but Black American cellists like OkCello are redefining its legacy. While the instrument’s prominence in Western classical music dates back to the 17th century, its adoption by Black American musicians has been a powerful act of cultural reclamation. From early 20th-century pioneers to modern virtuosos, Black cellists have infused the instrument with diverse influences, from jazz to spirituals, creating a vibrant legacy that OkCello proudly continues.
Tune in to hear OkCello share his journey, from his Morehouse College days to his groundbreaking compositions like Liminal: An Atlanta Concerto. Learn more about his music and upcoming projects at www.okcello.com. Don’t miss this soulful discussion