Editor’s note: Watch for the video about spoken-word artist Bobby Drake, who also will be performing at the Black Arts Festival.

Ramone Malone and his band MIC (Musically Inclined Crew) are performing Friday evening at the inaugural Black Arts Festival at the Wisconsin African American Women’s Center, 3020 W. Vliet St.

The three-day festival, sponsored by the Wisconsin Black Chamber of Commerce, includes live performances from spoken-word artists, dancers and musicians, as well as vendor displays and interactive activities.

Malone has been drumming for 26 years, since he started as a youth for his church. “Just watching certain drummers as I grew up, I wanted to take on the challenge of playing drums, and yes, I love it now,” said Malone. Drumming is his passion, although he also sings and assists in other ways at rehearsals if need be.

In total, the band comprises 11 musicians and plays a variety of music. “We play soul, we play blues, we play jazz, we play music that’ll make you step,” Malone said.

MIC has played at the Wisconsin African American Women’s Center before. Every second Friday for the past few months, Malone and his crew have performed at the Soul Lounge, which is located at the center.