Dan Kusaya & Chimurenga inspiration

Jason Finkelman is a Philadelphia-born percussionist specializing in music improvisation, blending laptop electronics and acoustic instruments to craft a unique ambient, avant-world sound. A master of the berimbau, a single-string musical bow, he performs on African and Brazilian instruments handcrafted by Adimu Kuumba. Since 2000, Finkelman has been based in Urbana-Champaign, where he leads the Improvisers Exchange, a multi-dimensional ensemble and programming line at the University of Illinois, fostering collaborative, omni-idiomatic improvised music. As a composer for dance, he has frequently collaborated with renowned choreographer Cynthia Oliver and has served as director of Global Arts Performance Initiatives at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts since 2012, enriching the cultural and academic landscape with cross-genre and cross-cultural projects.

JB Faires, a doctoral jazz studies graduate from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, brings dynamic versatility to the stage. With a rich history performing Appalachian to Zydeco music, he excels as bassist, guitarist, and sound engineer. Now the bassist for Dan Kusaya and Chimurenga Inspiration, JB captivates festival audiences with his vibrant, genre-crossing sound while balancing diverse artistic projects as a self-employed business owner.

Gordon Kay is a seasoned drummer with professional experience in New Orleans, Colorado, and Champaign, Illinois. He has made multiple trips to Africa, immersing himself in the music of Guinea, Mali, and Zimbabwe, bringing authentic global rhythms to his dynamic performances.

Ben Hay is a dynamic multi-instrumentalist whose work spans diverse musical styles. Through his expressive guitar playing and intricate polyrhythms, he creates music that is both deeply emotional and viscerally engaging. Ben’s unique voice has captivated audiences and led him to collaborate with some of the world’s most innovative musicians, forging profound musical connections.

Dave (“Dr. Dave”) Hardy has been a vibrant presence on the local music scene for 25 years, performing keyboards across blues, rock, R&B, soul, country, and jazz genres. For over a decade, he has been the main keyboardist for Candy Foster and the Shades of Blue, shaping their distinctive sound. Now, Dave is thrilled to bring his talents to Dan Kusaya’s band, marking his debut as a world music performer, blending rich cultural rhythms with his extensive experience.

Clifford Jakopo, originally from Harare, Zimbabwe, is a dynamic multidisciplinary performer whose career spans music, dance, acting, and cultural arts. For more than 15 years, he has shared his talents across the Midwest, entertained foreign dignitaries, and appeared on film alongside Reese Witherspoon. Clifford brings undeniable energy, authenticity, and a strong sense of cultural identity to every project he touches.

He is the founder of Idwalaelikhulu Theatre Dance Troupe, a company known for powerful performances that weave together acting, dance, and song. Clifford is also the co‑founder of Mhondoro Rhythm Success, a group dedicated to promoting rhythm, heritage, and cultural storytelling through engaging performances and community programs.

Beyond the stage, Clifford has devoted over 25 years to supporting people with intellectual disabilities. He also serves as a security supervisor at the State Farm Center and Memorial Stadium in Champaign, Illinois, and is an active member of Search and Rescue, contributing to public safety and community wellbeing.

Passionate about both the arts and service, Clifford continues to inspire audiences while mentoring the next generation of performers, leaders, and cultural ambassadors.