African rhythms have long been the heartbeat of the continent’s rich cultural heritage. From the djembe drums of West Africa to the mbira of Zimbabwe, music has played a vital role in storytelling, community, and identity.
Today, African rhythms are increasingly beating their way onto the global stage, captivating audiences worldwide, and one drummer who is at the forefront of this Oluwatayo Oluwadamilare Ajayi, better known as Tayo Conga, has built a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most fervent champions of African arts, culture, and tourism.
Born and bred in Lagos with roots in Ikogosi, Ekiti State, Tayo has devoted over a decade to global advocacy for African entertainment, using the conga (percussion) as his distinctive voice. From the moment he first touched the conga drum, Tayo understood that rhythm was more than just sound; it was a reflection of life itself.
“Life is full of rhythm. The rising and setting of the sun, the moon, the stars, the flow of time and seasons, everything moves in rhythm,” he often says. This philosophy guides his artistry, as he uses the conga not only to entertain but also to tell African stories, foster connections, and preserve culture.
As a percussionist, Tayo has graced some of the continent’s most esteemed stages over the years, performing at prominent events such as the ‘African Drum Festival’, the ‘International Jazz Festival’, and the ‘Forbes Under 30 Summit Africa.’
He has also showcased the African rhythms to diplomats from the United States, Brazil, the Netherlands, and Spain, while leading workshops that unveil the significance of African percussion to diverse audiences.
As the lead percussionist for Tumbadora African Entertainment, Tayo has orchestrated cultural initiatives like the African Heritage Tour series, curating experiences at iconic Nigerian sites such as the Ikogosi Warm Spring and Resort, and the Badagry Slave Trade Zone. His work highlights how music, history, and tourism can merge into compelling cultural narratives.
In 2025, his artistry earned international recognition when he and the Tumbadora African Crew received an official invitation to perform at the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) during the Intra-African Trade Fair in Algiers, Algeria, an achievement that further positioned him as a cultural ambassador.
Beyond his performances, Tayo convenes the ‘Spirit of Drums Concert’ and the ‘Gathering of Arts and Sound’ showcase, platforms that celebrate percussion, creativity, and African heritage. He also oversees the Tayo Conga Drum Workshop and organises a quarterly cultural showcase at the Nike Art Gallery in Lekki, Lagos, where art, music, and culture converge.
