WOMAD

Blk Sonshine

From South Africa

2001:Masauko Chipembere and Neo Muyanga are collectively Blk Sonshine one of the most exciting and talked about new groups to emerge in the last decade. They blend melodic and sometimes percussive acoustic guitars with hiphop, jazz, and folk influences as well as a huge helping of African soul.Masauko was born in America of Malawian politically exiled parents. It was here that he developedthe unique hiphop influences that give Blk Sonshine their street edge.On a two-year sojourn to Central and Southern Africa he met up with Neo and a growing friendship developed into a musical partnership that continually amazes all who come into contact with them.Their debut album "Blk Sonshine" was recorded at House of Blues, Encino California during a US tour that saw them performing at the Tribute to Archbishop Tutu concert in LA alongside Stevie Wonder, Joan Baez and Hugh Masekela.In September 2000 the band`s "Born in a taxi" was chosen as the theme tune for the new SANTAM TV commercial bringing the `Sonshine` message to mainstream South Africa.Blk Sonshine recently appeared with world renowned jazz guitarist Ronny Jordan who caught the band `live` on breakfast radio and was so impressed away that he invited them onstage to jam on his opening night. This year Blk Sonshine has headed off to the US where they will be doing a series of shows in both New York and Los Angeles before moving to Europe for summer festival dates. The band have written a number of new songs and will be recording tracks for the new album during June and July.