Listeners of the Wake Up With Dee Morning Show were treated to a vibrant, nostalgic, and music-filled segment as host Dr. Dee Dawkins Haigler welcomed Atlanta music icons Okorie "OkCello" Johnson and Khari "Cabral" Simmons into the studio.
The pair—who first crossed paths as Morehouse College students in 1993—sat down for their first-ever joint radio interview to reminisce about Atlanta’s golden era of soul and jazz, share impromptu live music, and announce their upcoming double-bill concert event, OkCello X Khari Simmons at The House.
A 30-Year Brotherhood Built on Atlanta’s Music Heritage
During the lively interview, Johnson and Simmons painted a vivid picture of Atlanta’s fertile 1990s artistic landscape. From jam sessions at the Yin Yang Cafe and Chocolate Soul to the house parties on Panola Road where early neo-soul sounds were forged, their brotherhood has spanned over three decades.
The duo shared memorable stories from their early years, including:
- Meeting at Morehouse: How a chance encounter on campus in 1993 led to a 30-plus-year friendship because Okorie reminded Khari of his cousin.
- Early Studio Sessions with India.Arie: The hilarious yet pivotal story of gathering at Speech's studio (of Arrested Development) for an early India.Arie recording session.
- Building a Foundation: The creation of seminal local bands like Series B and EarthSeed, which laid the groundwork for Atlanta’s global reputation in modern soul and jazz.
Okorie even gave listeners a live sample of his signature cellist storytelling during the show, using a loop pedal to layer complex rhythms and soulful melodies right in the studio.
Upcoming Concert Event: OkCello X Khari Simmons at The House
Music lovers won't want to miss this rare collaboration set against the backdrop of one of Atlanta’s premier cultural institutions.
- 📅 Date: Sunday, October 18th
- ⏰ Time: Show starts at 5:00 PM (Doors open at 5:00 PM / Show at 6:00 PM)
- 📍 Location: Sculpture Garden at Hammonds House Museum (501 Peek Ave NW, Atlanta, GA)
- 🎟️ Tickets: $25 for Members | $35 General Admission
The evening will feature opening solo loop-cello sets by OkCello, followed by Khari Simmons' 7-piece band featuring acclaimed vocalists Lava Hive and Dashill Smith, culminating in a joint finale performance. Attendees will also have the opportunity to view the indoor museum exhibit featuring artwork by Grace Kisa and Maurice Evans.
👉 Click Here to Purchase Concert Tickets on Eventbrite
Stay Connected with the Artists
Keep up with new music, tour dates, and upcoming projects by visiting their official websites:
- 🎻 Okorie "OkCello" Johnson: www.okcello.com
- 🎸 Khari Cabral Simmons: www.kharicabralsimmons.com
Tune In to Wake Up With Dee
Never miss an inspiring story, exclusive interview, or community update! Tune into the Wake Up With Dee Morning Show Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM EST on News & Talk WAOK or stream live anywhere on the AUDACY app.
