Sam Manzanza & The Afrobeat Band

Get your dancing shoes on and revel in the hot and spicy rhythms of Africa!

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 African music in New Zealand. He has enlivened and enchanted many ceremonial occasions, from Government House and The Beehive to WOMAD and the Auckland Commonwealth Drum Festival, with many other festivals, universities and bars in between.

A versatile instrumentalist, composer and singer, he plays blues harp, guitar and percussion, sings in French, Lingala and English, as well as composing most of the songs his band performs.

His fast-paced blend of African music, ska, hot, spicy and Afrobeat is taken from tribal beats to make you happy, get up and Dance!

Pic’s Granary Gig: Start your evening with Django Schmango at 6.30pm then continue the dance party end-of-Festival vibe with The Immigrants from 9.30pm. Both in the Granary Festival Cafe. No charge.