“pure summer happiness… golden voice” – London Jazz News
Grammy winner Richard Bona is one of the most accomplished international bass players, composers and multi-instrumentalists. With his unique sound and vocal gift he is continuously representing his African origins. Moreover, Bona’s music addresses the continent’s traditions, culture, beauty and issues. His purpose, and Bona’s connection with his audience has turned him into a staple name in world, jazz and Afropop music.
He currently produces and records for Latin and Brazilian artists in pop, Brazilian songbook, Flamenco and Caribbean music.
Richard Bona has toured, composed, recorded, and created musical forms of art with the greatest. He’s worked with Herbie Hancock, Harry Belafonte, Steps Ahead, Quincy Jones, Chick Corea, Buena Vista Social Club and Cesária Évora. Also, Sting, Mike Stern, Pat Metheny, Stevie Wonder, Bobby McFerrin, Chucho Valdés, George Benson, Oumou Sangaré and more. Thus, he has many diverse notable collaborations to his credit. Richard has also taught Jazz Improvisation at NYU and is constantly teaching and mentoring young talents throughout the world. Furthermore, he’s also a TED speaker and ambassador for various non-profit projects.
He is highly involved in developing better music business practices and ethics. He has a Signature Series collaboration with Italian-based MARKBASS. This has positioned him as one of the most creative and best-selling bass amp and bass guitar manufacturers in the world.
Bona is constantly touring around the world and exploring new musical directions. Further, Richard continues to redefine his sound, while still performing live. He’s currently working on new Afrobeat, Afropop, Latin and Flamenco projects throughout Europe, the US and Latin America.
Recommended for fans of Stanley Clarke, Joe Zawinul, Trilok Gurtu and Dobet Gnahore.
