Congas and Bluegrass Music Collide in Murray, Kentucky

Whether because of its close proximity to Nashville, music capital of America, or just the rich and diverse musical culture of old and new American immigrant groups, musicians in Murray, Kentucky are open to all types of musical styles. Every week you can find both professional and amateur musicians playing everything from mandolins to djembe to hammered dulcimer. Jazz and blues abounds with talented groups like the Todd Hill Orchestra, as well as a classical music scene strengthened by the nearby Paducah Symphony and Murray State Symphony Orchestra.

Visit a Sunday morning worship service at Christ Community Church, and you will find an eclectic mix of electric bass, acoustic drums, keys, mandolin, and congas accompanied by rustic vocals and world percussion. Amazing Grace takes on a distinct Latin flavor followed by a quiet a capella rendition of Just as I Am. The service ends with a rousing world fusion version of one of U2's hits. Afterwards, the praise band jams out on a blues riff or maybe a favorite classic rock tune.

When I first moved to Western Kentucky from sunny South Florida a few years back, I thought I would have to leave my conga and djembe skills behind. In Florida I played in hundreds of musical settings, from professional orchestra concerts to world fusion jazz bands to a stint with a Goth/Renaissance group. I played congas for Gospel choirs, timpani for Beethoven symphonies, xylophone for ragtime music, and even a scuba tank for an experimental music concert. Yet, in all my twenty decades of musical experience, I admit that I had never played any bluegrass music, and the closest to country music that I have experienced was singing Southern Gospel at a little Baptist church.

Coming from South Florida, where Latin and Caribbean music have created a massive influx of musical diversity, I feel at home among fellow musicians here in America's Heartland. I love nothing more than jamming out some new musical ideas with fellow band members. The unique fusion of Afro-Cuban drumming and experimental musical style compliments the traditional strumming of the guitar and mandolin surprisingly well, and I find that I now enjoy the quick beats of Bluegrass and the mournful strains of a good country ballade.

I admit that I miss dancing to salsa and merengue and that I miss hearing the distinct Cuban dialect of the Miami sound, but I am a richer musician now that I have experienced a different side of America. Imagine how amazing America could be if her peoples fused together like her music. European, South American, Asian, and African all joined together in one harmonious song. Now that would be a symphony to remember, and it can all start here, in Murray, Kentucky.