Mbira aka Kalimba World Beat music by Miami South Florida based musician Jomo

Mbira Player, Percussionist, World Beat Musician

Jomo is a rare spirit. Musically, he is the innovator of the unique chromatic/electric mbira, the “thumb piano” based on the centuries-old African musical instrument. He has released his first solo CD, “Mystical ViBiraTion,” which is now available in stores and on the internet (jomo.calabashmusic.com). On Mystical ViBiraTion, Jomo infuses traditional, rhythm& blues, hip-hop, jazz and new age with his signature African/Eastern flavor. From coast to coast in the United States, and from Canada to the Caribbean, this Dayton, Ohio native has traveled and spread the joy of his music during performances with many top names in the music industry. In addition to specializing in decidedly African and African-inspired rhythms, Jomo is fluent in jazz, rhythm & blues, and gospel.

complete Bio

This is an exciting time for me and I hope to make you a part of the reason I’m so excited. I will be announcing the release date of my new CD soon. You will have the pleasure of being the first to hear an mbira played in an R&B and contemporary jazz setting. Of course, you will hear this music flavored with touches of traditional African, Brazilian, Afro-Cuban and Asian influences. You will also be introduced to the one of a kind “Chrombira.” It is unique because it is designed to play chromatic scales, allowing me to play a variety of musical styles. This is a wonderful addition to the music you will also hear played on my traditional mbiras.

“Traditional” means different things to different people. My experiences have taught me that tradition is a living, organic entity. Though its origins are based on the practices of our Ancestors, it evolves with the addition of each new generation of Ancestors. Our database of knowledge constantly grows. As long as we acknowledge and show respect for the foundation of that knowledge, our contribution can be a continuation of that tradition. I have been blessed to have ancestral guidance in the development of my music and this instrument.

A new era of music is evolving. With the popularity of mbira music growing in modern cultures around the world, we are seeing the emergence of traditional African mbira music blending with traditional African American music. Blues, jazz, R&B, hip-hop and rap are all coming 360° back to their roots. I cherish being a player on this field and I hope you will join me on this journey.

I promised a sample of music played on my “chrombira.” Just go to this site
http://www.myspace.com/jomovibes and listen to a clip of my tune “Look At Me.” It will be on my new CD. I have also placed on this site my rendition of one of my favorite jazz compositions by Wayne Shorter named “Footprints”. I wanted to illustrate where I want to go with this music. This might be the first time you have ever heard a jazz mbira. I hope you enjoy it. Stay tuned for word of the release of “All Thumbs.”

Peace and Blessings

Last Updated: Saturday, June 16, 2007

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One of the most experienced African-American players of the Mbira is also one of the most exciting World Beat musicians based in Florida; Jomo performs for Corporate parties, Kwanzaa celebrations, cultural events and festivals. Though based in the South Florida area, Jomo is available and has performed both Nationally and Internationally. Jomo is available with several musical configurations, including musical accompanient by players of Djembe and other African drums, a full band and also with African dancers.
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