Meet Emmanuel Ilesanmi | Talking drummer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Emmanuel Ilesanmi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Emmanuel, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My interest in drumming started when I was very young. Growing up, I was always tapping on tables, chairs, and anything that could make sound. Sometimes it even annoyed my neighbors because I was constantly creating rhythms. My curiosity for percussion was so strong that I once made my own drum using a big milk tin and covering both sides with a sack just to imitate the sound of a drum.

Seeing how passionate I was, my mother promised to get me a real talking drum one day. Around the same time, the talking drum was often used to accompany music in my church, and watching the drummers play made me even more fascinated with the instrument.

That experience sparked a deep love for drumming that stayed with me throughout my childhood and teenage years. After finishing high school in 2016, I finally got my first talking drum, which marked an important moment in my journey. Since then, I’ve continued to develop my skills and use the instrument not only to express myself musically but also to share an important part of my cultural heritage.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is centered around the talking drum, a traditional Yoruba instrument that expresses rhythm, culture, and storytelling. My passion started when I was young, always creating rhythms by beating on tables and chairs before eventually getting my first talking drum.

What excites me most is sharing the beauty of this instrument and keeping the cultural tradition alive while introducing it to new audiences. One milestone in my journey was in 2020 when I participated in the #TrophyStandByMe Instagram challenge by Trophy Lager and made the Top 10 after several months of weekly creative content.

Through this journey I’ve learned that passion, consistency, and staying true to your craft are very important.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Since I’m currently in the Toronto area, I’d take a friend to explore some of the city’s most vibrant spots. We’d visit downtown to see the CN Tower and walk along the waterfront. I’d also take them to Kensington Market for its creative atmosphere, great food, and street art. Toronto is very diverse, so I’d also introduce them to some African restaurants and cultural spots where they can experience music, culture, and community.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would first give a shoutout to my mother. Growing up, I was always making rhythms by beating on tables and chairs around the house. Instead of discouraging me, she supported my interest in music and promised to get me my first talking drum, which meant a lot to me.

I would also recognize my church community. Seeing the talking drum used during church services inspired me and deepened my interest in drumming and its cultural significance.

Another important moment in my journey was in 2020 when I participated in the #TrophyStandByMe Instagram challenge organized by Trophy Lager. I made the Top 100 in the first round, and after months of creating weekly content, I eventually made the Top 10, which was very motivating for me.

I’m also grateful to friends, mentors, and everyone who has supported and encouraged my growth along the way.

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