David Pleasant's RiddimAthon

David Pleasant is a multi-faceted percussion virtuoso, rhythm effects vocalist, avant-garde performance artist, and lecturer who specializes in African-American traditions. Born in Savannah, GA and raised in McIntosh County, Pleasant grew up immersed in the rich Gullah/Geechee (Georgia and South Carolina Sea Island) culture, which thrives in that area. The Gullah culture, particularly juba, hand jive, pattin’, `rhappin’’ and shout has played a major role in the development of David Pleasant’s RiddimAthon!®, a performance and teaching method developed from a synthesis of African, Caribbean and African American musical traditions. Using assorted drums, cymbals, tambourines and marimbas, as well as the body percussion rhythms of shout, juba, and jive, RiddimAthon!® aims to get everyone singing, dancing and clapping.

Pleasant is a Fulbright Senior Specialist who presents his work at universities and institutions worldwide. He is also a critically acclaimed, award-winning composer/performer and soloist who has worked with Tony and Grammy Award artists such as: Audra McDonald, Regina Taylor, Graciela Daniel, Paul Simon, Jonathan Tunic, Wynton Marsalis, Michael John LaChiusa, Erykah Badu and others.