The Voice And Spirit Of Bobi Céspedes

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Bobi Céspedes' spiritual presence is as joyful as her voice. Courtesy of the artist hide caption

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Courtesy of the artist

Bobi Céspedes' spiritual presence is as joyful as her voice.

Courtesy of the artist

A conversation with vocalist Bobi Céspedes easily becomes a meaningful discussion of culture, history, life and laughter. Considered the musical madrina of the Bay Area's Afro-Cuban community, she has been practicing her art there in a number of bands and performance settings for over 40 years.

Céspedes' recent album, Mujer y Cantante, was recorded with a small group that includes top notch instrumentalists, some of whom are young enough to be her sons. It gives her voice and her spirit a boost of youthful energy, so when I catch up with her from her long-time home in Oakland she is full of energy to share her history and connection to her Afro-Cuban heritage.

I confess to be a long time admirer of Bobi Céspedes and it was reassuring to know that her spiritual presence is as joyful as her voice.

Bobi Céspedes, "Mujer y Cantante"

Bobi Céspedes, "Mi Canto"

Bobi Céspedes, "Mamaita"

Bobi Céspedes, "Ile Me"

Bobi Céspedes, "Awoyo"