Ondara, originally from Nairobi, Kenya, and formerly known as J.S. Ondara, is an artist whose musical journey beautifully intertwines the soul of folk and the spirit of aspiration. After discovering legends like Bob Dylan, his passion for songwriting was ignited, leading him to move to Minneapolis, Minnesota—a place he believed would best nurture his burgeoning music career, given its rich musical heritage tied to his idol. Ondara’s music reflects a perspicacious storytelling ability, his voice a vessel for narratives that are both personal and universal.

In 2019, Ondara unveiled his critically-acclaimed debut album, "Tales Of America," which earned him a nomination for Best Americana Album at the 62nd Grammy Awards. His poignant storytelling continued with the subsequent "Tales Of America (The Second Coming)", which included five additional tracks. Amidst the global turmoil of 2020, Ondara responded with the raw and reflective "Folk n’ Roll Vol. 1: Tales Of Isolation," an album that captured the collective emotion of a world in unprecedented times. Showcasing his genre-spanning versatility, Ondara also offers works like "Spanish Villager No. 3," a piece that further cements his place as a troubadour for the modern era, exploring themes of love, alienation, and the human condition. Whether offering intimate acoustics in studio sessions or lush, full-bodied productions, Ondara's music is a testament to the power of poetic lyricism and melodic grace.

Genres

Minneapolis Indie

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Latest Release

Wounded Heart (from the Original Movie "Silver Dollar Road")

Ondara

Single - Released October 20, 2023