Siama's Congo Roots
Feel-good music from the Heart of Africa
If you're here because we sang at your school, Mbote, Moninga! ("hello, my friend"). I hope you're singing and making music. Tokomonana! ("See you again")
If you're a Minnesota teacher or administrator, use this link to book Siama's fun cultural music program at your school for FREE(!), much thanks to Classical MPR's "Class Notes Concerts".
Back in Africa, Siama Matuzungidi (see-AHH-maw) became a soukous legend, recording his intricate guitar on hundreds of songs and touring the world with popular artists. Now in Minneapolis, his catchy, upbeat songs and musicianship have earned him a McKnight Fellowship, numerous grants and a Parents' Choice Parent Approved award. He and his wife Dallas Johnson (singer/narrator) love performing special concerts and events and sharing his happy music with kids and families. In addition to singing and guitar, Siama plays traditional African instruments like Mbira (thumb piano), Lokole (tone drum) and Balafon (marimba) and he's a mean beatboxer.
“When we listen to Siama's, "Land of Yangalele" we hear home, Mama Africa. This is very beautiful music everyone can enjoy.”
— Ladysmith Black Mambazo
“We dig it! A great addition to the family music mosaic! Outstanding rhythms and performances. ”
— Joe and Justin - The Okee Dokee Brothers
We're so excited to be back to jam with kids in the Instrument Petting Zoo tent.
We're so excited to be back to jam with kids in the Instrument Petting Zoo tent.
We're so excited to be back to jam with kids in the Instrument Petting Zoo tent.
Bring the whole family to sing and dance! Siama's bringing Dallas and Greg Schutte (drummer) to play a fun morning show on the main outdoor stage during the festival! (Check their website for more info on all of the amazing stuff happening during THE family event of the year.)
We're excited to play as artists are painting a mural. Come, celebrate West Bank neighborhood. (Check back for our Start and End times.)
Siama and Dallas are thrilled to host the very first kids' music tent ("Instrument Petting Zoo") at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival! Come and jam with Siama! (singing and hand percussion galore)
Buckham Library in Faribault invited Siama to bring an awesome full band to present a lively all-ages concert in Central Park. Bring your music-loving friends and family and be ready to dance and sing along!