Concerts by Bonga are increasingly few and far between these days, so it is a special honour to have him perform at Müpa Budapest. Of Angolan descent, he lives in Portugal and became one of the first major stars of world music in the early 1970s, when the world first took notice of him, and the Angolan semba music he himself developed. His sound seamlessly blends Portuguese fado with Cape Verdean morna and coladeira, combining them with Afro-Cuban influences. Now in his 84th year, the legendary artist made the song “Sodade” famous, before it was covered by Cesária Évora. Bonga was also a prominent voice in promoting Angolan independence. Over time, he has released ever more colourful albums that are liberally seasoned with samba, and effectively function almost as mood enhancers, dominated as they are by a love of storytelling and feel-good vibes in service of harmony. Playful, raspy vocals, an eternally smiling and endearing demeanor, and the melancholy of longing — the “Bonga recipe” is guaranteed to everyone’s spirits.

Presented by: Müpa Budapest