About me
and the show
Sam Manzanza has performed his infectious brand of authentic African music to audiences all over
the globe. His knowledge of traditional rhythms is honed by years spent with the national ballet of
Zaire ( DR Congo ) under Ray Lema.
Sam is the man who popularised traditional and modern Africa music in New Zealand.
He has enlivened and enchanted many ceremonial occasions, from Government House and The
Beehive and the Auckland Commonwealth Drum Festival, with many other festivals, Universities and bars in between.
Appearances with Myele Manzanza include at the 40 th Cheoyong Culture Festival in South Korea, AWME in Melbourne Australia, WOMAD 2015 Australia, WOMAD 2015 New Zealand and Globe Beat and Eat Festival 2015 in Perth West Australia, Brisbane Festival 2015 Australia, Vogel Street Party in Dunedin , Nelson Arts Festival 2015 New Zealand and New Years Eve 2015 at Lake Hawea Festival.
NZ And 2016 he has been performing at Newtown Festival on 6 th March and CubaDupa Festival 20th March 2016 in Wellington New Zealand. And also he has been performing at Africa Day 2016 festival 14 th May 2016.
Recent appearances: 7/12/2019 Sounds Africa Festival Melbourne Australia, 31/12/2019 New year eve MIX Festival, 7/11/2020 Africa Day Wellington, 11/4/2021 Newtown Festival Wellington,
25/3/2023 CubaDupa festival, 17/11/2023 AMCF in Melbourne Federation Square, celebrating a decade of African Music and Cultural Festival.
A versatile instrumentalist, composer and singer, he plays blues harp, guitar and percussion, sings in French, English and Lingala, as well as composing most of the songs his band performs.
His fast – paced blend of hot and spicy African music, ska and Afro beat is taken from tribal beats to make you feel magic, love and peace of MANZANZA SOUND, get up dance and cause your
temperature to rise, is always a hit with audiences.
Performing with his band dress in African colour costumes, promise to be a spectacular showcase of culture, upbeat music and positive vibes.
It is an experience not to be missed.
Thanks.
Sam Manzanza
I cannot begin to express the positive impact this music has made on me.
— Audience
If you’re looking for a show that dives deep into the heart of what it means to be human, this is it. It’s a transformative experience that will broaden your horizons, challenge your perspectives, and remind you of the power of the beats. Prepare to be captivated, enlightened, and inspired.
— Audience
manzanza music 