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Gyedu Blay Ambolley is a musical luminary hailing from Ghana, West Africa, with a staggering 29 albums under his belt. Known affectionately as the "Simigwa Do Man,” Ambolley’s musical journey began in the vibrant port city of Sekondi-Takoradi, in the Western Region of Ghana. His early fascination with music blossomed into a lifelong passion. From mastering his father’s flute at the tender age of eight, to honing his guitar skills under the mentorship of “Uncle Bonku," Sammy Lartey and Ebo Taylor, Ambolley’s musical odyssey has been nothing short of extraordinary. This all led to Ambolley becoming a musical life force and exploding on the scene in 1973 with a jazzy highlife sound called "SIMIGWA-DO." His name has become synonymous with Simigwa music and dance. Coming of age amidst the zenith of Ghana’s highlife era, Ambolley emerged as a pivotal figure in its evolution, lending his talents to esteemed bands such as Houghas Extraordinaires, Meridians Of Tema and Ghana Broadcasting Band. It was during this time that he caught the attention of his compatriot and friend, Ebo Taylor, who recruited Ambolley to be a member of the Uhuru Dance Band. This all lead to a transformative journey to Nigeria in 1973, where they shared the stage with the legendary Fela Kuti at his renowned Shrine venue. 1975 Debut Album "Simigwa": Gyedu Blay Ambolley’s groundbreaking debut solo album, released in 1975, stands as a cornerstone of Ghanaian music history - with one of the most iconic album covers! "Simigwa" stands as Ambolley’s magnum opus, a masterpiece fusing together the rich tapestry of highlife, afrobeat, folk and funk. The album is a true testament to Ambolley’s unparalleled artistry written and produced in collaboration with the legend Ebo Taylor. Ambolley not only embraces his musical roots but also pioneers the fusion of Ghanaian highlife with soul and funk influences from across the Atlantic. With "Simigwa," Ambolley seized the opportunity to showcase his own musical prowess and embark on a journey of experimentation. A main inspiration for this album was the work of the mighty Mr. James Brown, something that is evident from the rhythm section, horns, vocal stabs and percussion breaks throughout the record. Performance: For the first time in the US, Gyedu Blay Ambolley will be performing his 1975 debut album in its entirety! Bringing his 8 piece band from Ghana, they will perform the pioneering masterpiece "Simigwa." Gyedu Blay Ambolley on Instagram

Smooth Operator Live: The Ultimate Tribute to Sade’s Seductive Sound Experience the sultry, sophisticated sounds of Sade like never before with Smooth Operator, the premier tribute band celebrating her timeless music. Led by dynamic percussionist Tony Young and fronted by the soulful vocals of Jessica “Jaye Nicole” Phillips, this ensemble of world-class musicians delivers a smooth, immersive performance that honors the elegance and emotional depth of Sade’s iconic sound. With members who have shared the stage with legends like Slave, Christina Aguilera, Ike Turner, and George Benson, Smooth Operator fuses technical brilliance with heartfelt tribute. Their polished arrangements, lush saxophone lines, and deep grooves will transport you from San Marcos to the velvet lounges of London. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of Sade’s greatest hits—live in the intimate, acoustically rich setting of The Bornemann Theatre. The Bornemann Theatre on Facebook / Instagram

"Shidaiqu" is a musical fusion of Chinese folk and European jazz, which originated in 1920s Shanghai. Explore a brief history of the genre, intertwined with song performances. Jessica Fichot on Facebook / Instagram / Youtube

The 37th Annual Balboa Park Pow Wow returns on May 10 and May 11 in Balboa Park (the corner of Park Blvd. and President’s Way). This free, family-friendly event is open for all to experience a weekend full of tradition, vibrant performances, and cultural pride. The community is invited to experience the richness of Native American heritage through music, dance, art, and community connection. Native singers, drummers, and dancers from throughout the Southwest will gather to practice their traditions in their beautiful regalia. Pow Wows are a spiritual experience for American Indians and an opportunity to preserve and pass on the customs and traditions which keep Native heritage alive. Each day, the Pow Wow will showcase traditional activities such as Kumeyaay Bird Singing, Gourd Dancing, Inter-Tribal Dancing, and Honoring of community leaders. There will also be dozens of local vendors and food booths serving delicious fry bread and other Native American dishes. Native artists will have beautiful hand-crafted items for purchase, such as jewelry, clothes, blankets, art, and more. Saturday’s honoring will be dedicated to the United States Military for their service, and Sunday’s honoring will be dedicated to all the mothers and grandmothers in celebration of Mother's Day. Congressman Scott Peters will be speaking at the event on Saturday to speak on SDAIHC’s impactful service to the community. The Pow Wow is hosted by San Diego American Indian Health Center (SDAIHC). As a community clinic, SDAIHC serves all San Diegans regardless of ethnicity, age, or background. The center promotes excellence in healthcare and welcomes new patients to join its diverse community. SDAIHC aims to reduce the significant health disparities in San Diego’s under-served populations, and brings hope, resilience, and healing to the thousands that are served yearly. To learn more about volunteering, vendor information, donations, or other general information, visit www.sdaihc.org/powwow/ or contact Paula Brim at paula.brim@sdaihc.org San Diego American Indian Health Center on Facebook / Instagram

In this class the face is the focus. Using different techniques and mediums, we will find fun ways to approach an often daunting subject. Students will be encouraged to bring photos of family, friends, even pets. We will discuss the best kinds of photos to work with and how to use the ones you have even if they aren’t the best quality. There will be a model for one session, and we will try self-portraiture. This is an interesting way to improve your skills, find some new ones, and have fun while you are at it. Materials: A 9” x 12” pad of mixed-media paper; soft vine charcoal (willow is the best); woodless graphite pencil, 6B, 8B, or 9B (the higher the number the better); pencil sharpener; kneaded eraser. Other materials will be discussed in class, and the instructor will bring some supplies for students to try and share. Max students: 12 Visit: Athenaeum Music & Arts Library

Get ready for an electrifying celebration of Lucha Libre, art, and culture on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at Lucha Fest happening at The Soap Factory - a dynamic, family-friendly event bringing together the best of wrestling, art, music, food, and community! In collaboration with the Comic-Con Museum, Gray Area Foundation for the Arts, Museo de Lucha Libre Tijuana Mexicana, the Office of the Consulate General of Mexico in San Diego, USA, and Global Lucha, this special event marks the official unveiling of a large-scale mural honoring legendary luchadores. Experience the Excitement: Mural Unveiling - Celebrate the launch of a stunning tribute to Lucha Libre’s legacy. Live Lucha Libre Matches - Witness high-flying action from top luchadores from Global Lucha! Dj & Music - Feel the rhythm with beats that keep the energy high. Local Food & Craft Bar - Savor authentic flavors from Wet Tacos and Suncoast Pizza while enjoying the festivities. Family Friendly Activities - Fun-filled activities for kids. Lucha Photo Booth Fun – Snap pics and strike a pose with Lucha-inspired props and backdrops. When: Saturday, May 17, 2025 Time: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m. Where: The Soap Factory Address: 2995 Commercial St, San Diego, CA 92113 Tickets: This is a FREE EVENT Ages: This is an ALL AGES event with a family friendly atmosphere The Soap Factory on Facebook / Instagram

In the first feature film co-directed by an Israeli and an Iranian, Tatami, an Iranian judoka must choose between her country and a run for the gold at the World Judo Championships.

Answer our six-question multiple-choice quiz and find out which candidates align with you on important issues before the 2025 special general election for county supervisor in District 1.

Paint & Sip at The Saloon – “Country Roads” Summer Edition Hosted at The Saloon – Vista’s Hidden Meadery Gem! Get ready for a creative evening full of color, flavor, and fun at The Saloon, a hidden western-themed meadery tucked away in Vista! This cozy and unique venue is home to two award-winning mead companies sharing one rustic roof – the perfect setting for a relaxing night of painting and sipping. Join us indoors for a step-by-step instructor lead painting class as we bring to life “Country Roads” – a stunning summer scene featuring a vibrant red barn-style bridge over a peaceful creek, surrounded by lush green trees, blooming flowers, and blue skies. It’s the ultimate summer vibe on canvas! What’s Included: - All painting supplies provided - 11”x8” canvas to allow for detailed work - Beginner-friendly instruction – no experience needed! - 2.5 hours of creative fun Sip & Savor: Enjoy delicious, handcrafted meads from two renowned producers, Wild West Meadery, on-site. While The Saloon doesn’t serve food, feel free to bring your own bites to pair with their award-winning drinks. Grab your friends, your favorite snacks, and your love of creativity—let’s paint the summer away together at The Saloon! Location: The Saloon (Home to Hidden Hive Mead and Wild West Mead Company) – Vista, CA When: Sunday, July 20 from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Age Range: 16+ with guardian Parking: Free parking available! Food: Food not available for purchase. Customers are welcome to bring their own food and snacks to the event. Two different mead company’s under one roof offering an amazing variety of mead for purchase. Wheelchair Accessible: Yes Additional Information We encourage artistic freedom! You can alter the painting to fit your style and use any of our colors. Things to know: We require a 48-hour notice for cancellations/rescheduling. Refunds must be requested within 3 days of purchase. After 3 days a credit will be given. Check-in begins 15 minutes before the event start time. Give yourself time to park to avoid arriving late. Painting and Vino is not responsible for paint on customer or venue property. No outside food or drink is allowed. They are available for purchase. Wine is not included in your ticket purchase. If you have any questions about the event, feel free to contact customer service. Painting and Vino Vista on Facebook / Instagram

Mission Valley, an open-air shopping center located in San Diego, California, invites the community to its “Valley Vibes” summer concert series featuring a lineup of some of the area’s most talented musicians with performances on Mondays and Wednesdays (5 p.m. to 8 p.m.) and Saturdays (3 p.m. to 6 p.m.) now through September 1st in the AMC Theatres Court. Artists include popular performers such as David Shyde, Helena Holleran, Whitney Shay, Rachel Jay, Kai Kalama, Jemille Vialet, Fredie Walton, Jesse Ray Smith, Lee Coulter, and more, each sharing their own unique styles of rock, pop, blues, contemporary, easy listening and jazz music. Retailer promos will be available during select concerts. July 28th: Jolene Cruz Visit: https://www.acousticspottalent.com/event/mission-valley-jolene-cruz-1 Jolene Cruz on Instagram