Rooty Naky And The Rootables & Sal de Calle

Rooty Naky And The Rootables | Reggae, Zouglou, Afrobeats (Ivory Coast, Ontario)

Formed in 2021 in the Ottawa-Gatineau area, Rooty Naky and the Rootables blends reggae, neo soul, afrobeats, and a variety of African musical influences. Led by Rooty Naky (singer and guitarist), the band features Queen Abi, Howie, Jerry, King David, Chris Leblanc, Blaise, and Marco—a collective united by a vibrant energy and a shared message of peace, love, and justice. Since their debut, they have performed at numerous local events, including Festival de la rue Eddy and Afrofest in 2024, followed by Kichesippi Festival and Afrofest Ottawa in 2025. Their first single, SEÏKO, was warmly received and marked an important milestone in their musical journey. Multilingual in French, English, and several African languages, they create a universal connection that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. Their guiding motto, “Humanity First,” encapsulates their vision: celebrating diversity and reminding everyone that, beyond our differences, it is our shared humanity that truly unites us.

Sal de Calle | Jazz, Afro-Cuban (Cuba, France, Brazil)

Sal de Calle is a musical collective that blends Afro-Cuban rhythms (son, rumba, sacred music) with the energy and freedom of jazz. Bringing together musicians from Cuba, Brazil, France, and Canada, the group creates a vibrant sound where powerful vocals, mesmerizing percussion, and bold improvisations come together. Each performance is a dynamic celebration, combining rhythmic intensity with rich instrumentation for a festive and immersive experience. Beyond dance and celebration, Sal de Calle pays tribute to the Afro-descendant heritage, a history of struggle and resilience that has given rise to a powerful artistic expression. Through this fusion, the collective builds a bridge between tradition and modernity, embodying the strength and beauty of an ever-evolving culture.