Before becoming an award-winning Latin Jazz and Salsa band in the mid-1990s,

Mikata began as an African/Caribbean percussion workshop in 1978.  Under the direction of Richard Hill, the group quickly evolved into a twelve-piece African/Caribbean Funk ensemble that performed original Afro-Beat , Soukous and Soca tunes with powerful Jazz soloing and a strong social justice message.

From Mikata's first gig at Sounds of Brazil in 1984, the band performed regularly in many New York clubs (Heart Break's, Irving Plaza, Danceteria, Pyramid Club, etc.) and at colleges and festivals around the country and in Canada and Japan.

Please enjoy some of Mikata's early "World Beat" performances (more videos coming soon).