Richard Bona, born on October 28, 1967, in Cameroon, has established himself as a virtuoso bassist, multi-instrumentalist, and vocalist whose stylistic range encompasses a broad spectrum of jazz and world music. Growing up in a musically rich environment, Bona was exposed to a variety of sounds from an early age, which influenced his diverse approach to music. His early years spent absorbing traditional African music laid the groundwork for a career that would seamlessly blend influences from across the globe.

Arriving in New York City in the mid-1990s, Bona quickly became a sought-after bass player, known for his ability to blend speed, precision, and a deep understanding of rhythm. His solo career took off with the release of his debut album "Scenes from My Life" in 1999, which showcased not only his mastery of the bass but also his soulful voice and talent for composition. Over the years, Bona has released numerous albums that display his versatility as an artist, such as "Heritage" with Mandekan Cubano, where he explores the connections between Cuban and African music, and "Tiki," which earned him a Grammy nomination. His discography also includes live performances that capture the energy of his stage presence, such as "Mulema" recorded live at TED. Known for his technique, improvisational skills, and the ability to blend musical traditions, Richard Bona continues to be a defining voice in the contemporary world music scene.

Genres

Electric Bass

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Youssou N'Dour

Manu Dibango

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Esperanza Spalding

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Antônio Carlos Jobim

Fela Kuti

Seun Kuti

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Oumou Sangaré

Latest Release

Boarding Pass (feat. Richard Bona & Sammy Figueroa) [Radio Edit]

Reginald Policard•

Richard Bona

Single - Released August 9, 2024