Pan Afrikan Peoples Arkestra

The Pan Afrikan Peoples Arkestra (P.A.P.A.) is a legendary musical collective rooted in Los Angeles’ Black cultural renaissance. Founded in 1961 by visionary pianist, composer, and community activist Horace Tapscott, the Arkestra became a creative hub for African-American jazz artists to explore avant-garde sounds while uplifting their community. Blending spiritual jazz, African rhythms, and improvisational freedom, their music serves as both artistic expression and social commentary, echoing the resilience and heritage of the African diaspora.

Still active today, the ensemble remains dedicated to Tapscott’s ethos of “art as a tool for liberation,” fostering mentorship and collaborative energy. Their live recordings—like the raw, soulful *Live At Widney High* (1971) or the stirring *The Creator Has A Master Plan (Live)*—capture their electrifying spontaneity and deep connection to audiences. With releases like *60 Years* (2021), they celebrate decades of evolving while staying true to their mission: keeping the flame of communal creativity and cultural pride alive.

Genres

Free Jazz

Avant-garde

Related Artists

Kamasi Washington

Pharoah Sanders

Herbie Hancock

Archie Shepp

Art Ensemble Of Chicago

Kendrick Lamar

Alice Coltrane

Sun Ra

Thundercat

Leon Thomas

John Coltrane

Miles Davis

Latest Release

Live At Widney High December 26th, 1971

Pan Afrikan Peoples Arkestra

Ep - 5 Tracks - Released May 9, 2025