Leon Mobley and Da Lion bring da funk

Rhythm, funk, soul, love, laughter and dancing could all be found in the Branigin Room Tuesday night as Leon Mobley and Da Lion drummed out traditional African-American and West African beats that electrified the crowd. Sponsored by the Black Student Union, the performance was inspiring and exciting.

Leon Mobley (of Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals), Leon’s brother Jah Amen Mobley, Marcus Miller and singer Ci Ci make up the group of African-American percussionists. The style of music that was featured on stage was wide-ranging, featuring songs sung in several different languages.

Entertaining and informative, the crowd also received a lesson in drumming. Mobley explained the different type of drumheads that were being used on stage. He did not settle for a simple lecture, but quizzed members of the audience to ensure they understood his signature series drum featured a Mylar head. Mobley also gave a little bit of the history of the drum in West Africa and the importance of it to the culture.

Mobley’s message of unity and peace was met with great approval from the adoring crowd. At one point in the performance when they began playing "Get ya Number," the crowd immediately jumped up and sang the catchy chorus in unison. The excitement and emotion of the evening peaked when nearly the entire crowd joined together in a dance-line circling the Branigin Room.

The show ended with an intimate question period where students asked a range of questions. Leon Mobley and Da Lion gave an excellent performance and also enriched all those in attendance with their message. For more information on Leon Mobley and Da Lion, visit

www.leonmobley.com.