We’re looking forward to introducing you to Adeyemi Adebesin. Check out our conversation below.
Adeyemi, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
On November 9th, 2024, my longtime dream became a reality — I successfully hosted Baawa Music Festival in my hometown, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.
Back in 2012, I began conversations with BlackBerry and MTN South Africa about a music festival I envisioned then. While MTN eventually declined, BlackBerry showed interest and gave me the green light — but requested a document I couldn’t obtain at the time, as it required my presence in the United States.
Fast forward to 2024 — thirteen years later — God smiled on me. I finally had the resources to launch my own festival, and it turned out to be a remarkable success for a debut edition.
Now, in year two, a major Nigerian company has come on board with an introductory-level sponsorship, a partnership I strongly believe will grow into a full sponsorship in the coming year.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Adeyemi Adebesin, popularly known as YEMICONGA. I am a Professional Session Percussionist, African Jazz artist, and Entrepreneur. I have a deep passion for traveling, exploring diverse musical genres, and I approach life with optimism and authentic creativity.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My relationship with music has taught me that anything I set my mind to is possible. Music is deeply spiritual and wonderfully complex—especially as an African Jazz artist, I connect with it on a profound level that goes far beyond fame or money.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I’ve been through tough times more than once—though you wouldn’t know it by looking at me. There were moments when I almost gave up, but I kept pushing forward.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
The Yoruba culture is very dear to my heart. I may not have all it takes to protect it entirely, but I’m doing my part through music and my festival, the Baawa Music Festival. I also have other projects in the works dedicated to preserving and celebrating our culture. This mission is for the entire Yoruba race—from Nigeria and other African countries to the Yoruba descendants in Brazil and beyond.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
I don’t plan to retire until I’m very old—perhaps when I can no longer lift my hands. When that time comes, people will miss the sound of my congas and other African drums through which I speak my heart’s in sounds and rhythm.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.baawamusicfestival.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yemiconga
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yemiconga1
