Achimota

The name Achimota means 'don't ask, just listen'. It’s a living, growing concept, a dynamic band which is making a name for itself in Gauteng. 

Achimota began by busking on the streets of Johannesburg, before progressing to performing at corporate functions, public events and weddings.   They have not forgotten their roots though, and have formed an NGO which trains young kids in Orange Farm township to sing, play marimbas and drums, and dance. The sessions, held in band leader Mike’s backyard, are empowering for everyone and makes the township resonate with life and sound.

Achimota plays a mixture of traditional music, with songs such as Mbube (When the Lion sleeps), and more contemporary music, with a slight Rap and kwaito influence. Several danceable Latino songs, such as La Bamba, are also incorporated into the sets, which include a repertoire of many originals - and more than 50 songs.
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Achimota is a five-piece band, capable of playing acoustically, or with a PA and microphones. They are able to "feel out" the audience and match their repertoire and performance to the mood of the occasion.  The group can perform up to three sets of 45 minutes.
 
One of Achimota’s greatest assets is that they can play softly, allowing people to talk and eat while in close proximity to the band. But if the party hots up, Achimota will gladly do so too, and have been known to get men in suits and women in high heels onto the dance floor!