If we look back at the time of the Mali Empire, which would be as far back as 800 AD, the West African civilization was associated with the blacksmiths of the Mande people. They were craftsmen who held social and spiritual roles in the community.

The djembe was used in spiritual healing and rituals allowing the djembe to have a revered status. The power of the djembe was not the drum by itself; but by the one playing it and the connection associated with it. Therefore, it was believed that the djembe had some kind of mystical powers.

The djembe is a beautiful instrument when it is played well, not only in the play but also in the making of it. Generally, it is made from hardwood; native trees, such as the douki. It is shaped like a goblet and the skin (goat skin) is stretched over the head of the djembe and tightened by rope and tuned to give it that sharp crisp sound and base. The difference in the type of wood and skin will affect the sound of the djembe when playing, that is why the making of the djembe should have a deep cultural foundation.

The djembe is now a global instrument and recognised in the world of music. It is still widely played in Africa but has spread abroad Europe and beyond.

It now has modern use in contemporary music and remains to inspire people in the community with its rhythm and spiritual powers to transcend limits.