During Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 - October 15), the Multicultural Center hosts a guest speaker who focuses on the complexities of Latinos in the United States, whether that be culture, identity, immigration, or even history. The event is not only inspirational and educational, but it also allows students to embrace the celebration and the occasion of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Hispanic Heritage Month Speaker Series 2025
Join us in Carter Hall on October 27, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. for a live drum presentation and talk hosted by Yamil Conga.
This 150-minute presentation explores the 5,000-mile journey of the conga drum, from its African origins to its role in Latino and American music. It covers its passage across the Atlantic during the trans-Atlantic slave trade and how it became a musical staple in various cultures. The session includes interactive PowerPoint slides, hands-on drum examples, and music to engage participants.
Yamil Conga is a trailblazing Master Percussionist whose unique style blends the rhythms of Puerto Rico with unexpected genres, such as country music. Born in Puerto Rico and now based in Nashville, Yamil's musical journey is deeply influenced by his father, Eladio Jimenez, a Fania singer-songwriter, and by iconic salsa musicians like Ray Barretto, Tito Puente, and Giovanni Hidalgo. His drumming is also shaped by his exposure to gospel bands and jazz training with Nick Forte.
Notably, Yamil was one of the first Puerto Ricans to perform country music in Nashville and is among the few congueros to perform at the Grand Ole Opry. With an ten-year tenure as the drummer for the band Unspoken and currently serving as the drumming DJ for Country music artist Frank Ray, Yamil continues to bring his distinctive, emotional, and innovative percussion to the music scene. For him, drumming is more than just an art form - it's a lifeline, blending personal expression with a universal rhythm that connects us all.
