Richard Bona, renowned for his mastery of the bass guitar, captivating vocals, and innovative compositions, has etched his name deeply into the fabric of global music. Born on October 28, 1967, in the village of Minta, Cameroon, Bona’s musical odyssey began amidst a rich cultural tapestry infused with traditional African rhythms and melodies. From a tender age, Bona displayed an exceptional musical aptitude.
At just four years old, he fashioned his first balafon from materials found around his home, foreshadowing his future as a multi-instrumentalist and composer. By eleven, Bona had mastered the guitar, garnering attention within his local community for his prodigious talent. In 1989, Bona embarked on a pivotal journey to Europe, initially settling in Germany before finding his musical footing in France.
Paris became a crucible for Bona’s artistic growth, where he studied at the National Conservatory of Music and immersed himself in the city’s vibrant jazz scene. Collaborations with luminaries like Didier Lockwood and Joe Zawinul expanded his musical horizons and solidified his reputation as a versatile musician. Bona’s trajectory soared upon relocating to New York City in the late 1990s, capitalizing on the city’s diverse musical milieu.
Renowned as a session musician, he collaborated with icons such as Pat Metheny and Bobby McFerrin, enriching his musical palette with each performance. In 1999, Bona released his seminal debut album, “Scenes from My Life,” a p.
