Puddingstone, a conglomerate rock in which dark-colored rounded pebbles contrast with a paler, fine-grained matrix. Even more, the nature of puddingstone symbolizes unity, bringing together various minerals in perfect harmony.
An apt moniker for Richard Bona who started his career in the arts as a child building his own instruments, playing the music of Cameroon, his motherland.
Mshale connected with Bona recently. Bona said, “My music is deeply rooted in my childhood in Cameroon, where I was exposed to African rhythms and melodies from a young age. Growing up surrounded by music and culture laid the foundation for my musical journey.”
Bona didn’t remain in Cameroon, however. He moved to Europe to study and stretch his musical acumen, eventually landing across the Atlantic in New York City. His travels allowed him to incorporate a diverse range of influences into his work.
“I love the music of India, Cuba, Brazil and so many more inspirations,” Bona said. “Each place I visit and each person I meet adds a new layer to my musical palette, shaping the sound that is uniquely mine.”
September 26 at The Dakota, Richard Bona will take the stage to deliver his meaty repertoire, his first time playing to a Minnesota audience. An acclaimed and accomplished bass-player, Bona also uses other instruments and invites other musicians to accompany him.
“The beatbox element in my music comes from my fascination with vocal percussion and the versatility of the human voice as an instrument,” Bona said. “I try to incorporate this unique art form into my own music. By blending traditional African with my vocal techniques, I am able to create a dynamic and engaging sound.”
The human voice is the oldest instrument to create music. Technology has advanced us into a new era. The looper pedal records a guitar, for instance, as the musician plays a riff or chord sequence and then plays it back in a loop. “I was one of the pioneers to use [a looper] live on stage, especially in the world music and jazz scene. It allows me to loop and layer different musical elements in real-time,” Bona said.
“The synergy and connection that comes from collaborating with talented artists in a live setting is unmatched,” Bona said. “I believe that my best work comes from a balance of both worlds – utilizing technology while also drawing inspiration and creativity from the old school.”
“My music is a reflection of my African heritage, blended with elements of Afrobeats, jazz, funk, Latin and pop,” Bona said, “I can’t wait to play with my new project – Asante Trio – so people in Minnesota can hear our new blends.”
Tickets for his September 26th 7 pm show at The Dakota available here.
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About Susan Budig
Susan is based in Minneapolis and reports on general assignments for Mshale with a focus on entertainment. In addition to reporting, she is also a writer, poet, teacher and coach.
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