Mitchum Yacoub

Mitchum Yacoub is an Egyptian-American multi-instrumentalist, producer, and DJ based out of San Diego, CA. As a lifelong drummer that has supported many projects in the vein of afrobeat, soul, funk, dub, and rocksteady, he's been slow brewing a unique feel for roots and dance music. Inspired by artists like Fela Kuti, Dr. Dre, and James Brown, his group harkens back to Africa in the 70’s with the bass and drums turned up a notch. Strong, repetitive grooves layered with Afro-Latin percussion and vibrant, tightly executed horn lines that call all dancers to the floor.

Since beginning his first live performances in late 2019, Yacoub has played alongside roots music heavies like The Original Wailers, Jungle Fire, and Boostive. In 2022, his group supported Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 for six shows across the U.S., while he also as played percussion and drum kit for Kuti's band: Egypt 80 (formerly of Fela Kuti). The experience trained him well in the rhythmic strength of the music and earned him and his band a place in the global scene of afrobeat.

Since his band's recent beginnings, Yacoub has played alongside roots music heavies like Tinariwen, The Wailers, Antibalas, Jungle Fire, and Los Gaiteros de San Jacinto. They supported Seun Kuti for six shows across the U.S., while he traded on percussion and drum kit for Kuti's band: Egypt 80 (formerly of Fela Kuti). The experience trained him well in the rhythmic strength of the music and earned his band a place in the global scene of Afrobeat.
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Originality, musicianship, and a massive sound are three marks keeping Yacoub on the road and a fast-growing festival favorite. The highly acclaimed release of his debut album, “Living High in the Brass Empire”, (2023 All-Town Sound) brings the experience home as a showcase in his unique approach to roots music; forming explosive intersections of Afrobeat, Cumbia, and Soul that will lift your spirit from its seat.​