Congratulations to Siama for being selected as a 2026-2027 McKnight Composer Fellow!
Can’t wait to see what he does with this incredible opportunity
(He’s a 2014-2015 McKnight Musicians Fellow as well)
Back in Africa, Siama formed his legacy by recording hundreds of songs and touring the world with popular Soukous artists. He's lived on four continents and performed for three presidents.
Now in Minneapolis, he charms audiences with catchy songs, intricate guitar, syncopated rhythms, spirited singing, and traditional instruments like the mbira, lokole, and balafon.
2026-27 McKnight Composers Fellowship
2026 MRAC Creative Connections grant
2023 MRAC Arts Impact for Individual Artists grant
2019 MN State Arts Board Arts Tour grant
2017 Parents’ Choice Parent-Approved award
2017 Creative Child award
2016 MRAC Next Step grant
2015 MN State Arts Board Artist Initiative grant
2014 McKnight Musicians Fellowship
2009 African Global Roots Award