Siama's Congo Roots
Feel-good music from the Heart of Africa
“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
Back in Africa, Siama Matuzungidi (see-AHH-maw) became a soukous legend, recording his intricate guitar on hundreds or songs and touring the world with popular artists. Now in Minneapolis, his catchy, upbeat songs and musicianship have earned him a McKnight Fellowship and 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.
“We dig it! A great addition to the family music mosaic! Outstanding rhythms and performances. ”
— Joe and Justin - The Okee Dokee Brothers
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87485696974?pwd=YTZpWUF3SjZ5TlRNdkpLd1hIMFYxdz09 Meeting ID: 874 8569 6974 Passcode: 280583
First, watch our fun video (via Buckham Library's Facebook page) from 10-10:30am and then join us at 11am to sing together and ask us questions about Siama's music and instruments, or about Congolese music and culture. This special session features Siama & Dallas and is hosted by the one, the only Deni Buendorf. :)