Sila & the AfroFunk Experience bring the sounds that most of us know as Afrobeat which was born out of the crowded streets of West African cities like Lagos, Accra and Abidjan and combining the polyrhythmic percussion of indigenous West African music with Fenders and brass, Afrobeat trundled up from the underground to denounce dictatorship, corruption and oppression while still treating dancers and music fans to a seriously good time. Sila, hailing from the East African nation of Kenya, has the same mission, but named his own brand of music Afrofunk, an updated sound that incorporates more trace elements of funk, souskous, zouk and reggae. Inspired by his Kenyan roots and his love for all genres of music, his sound is unique, yet instantly recognizable. His lyrics and beats reflect the music, the language, the energy, and the spirit of growing up in Africa. As a child in the Kikamba village in Kenya, Sila was an imaginative five-year old who nurtured his love for music by singing the traditional songs of his ancestors, along with the ubiquitous songs of Miriam Makeba, James Brown, Fela Kuti, Bob Marley, and the Beatles.
Sila’s AfroFunk sound reflects the music of his ancestors, of Africa, and his own interpretation of American music. His music resonates with listeners, as it mirrors the core elements of everyday life experiences. While currently based in America, he continues to journey home to collaborate and jam with locals and legendary tribal musicians. As a result, he never strays far from the essence of his lush musical roots.
Now living in San Francisco, Sila thrives in yet another vibrant and diverse musical community. Sila and the AfroFunk Experience has been igniting dance floors everywhere. The music is a uniting force; a whirlwind that sweeps people into a dancing frenzy. A natural band-leader, Sila’s onstage charisma adds another level of depth to the performances. Backed by a group of seasoned, energetic players, including horns (Mike Pitre, David Boyce and Andre Webb ), bass (Wendell Rand), drums (Bennie Murray), guitars (Ken House and David James), percussion (Elvis Nensah), and talking drum (Samba Guisse), Sila’s soulful vocals deliver a powerful message.
What also sets Sila apart is his desire and capacity to give. He continues to be an outspoken advocate for peace and children, and he takes the time to remind us all that we should all be doing more for the children of the world. Sila has dedicated his concerts to raise funds for UNICEF - Emergency Relief for the Children of Sudan, and he continues to work with other organizations working toward the improvement of the living conditions and the status of children.
He sings in both English and Swahili, and his songs are about life—the joys, the struggles, the triumphs, justice, peace, and the need to nurture not only the children of the world, but also all of humanity.
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