Santa Cruz-based SambaDá, whose shows have been some of the liveliest ever on the Ashkenaz stage, was founded in 1998 by native Brazilian Papiba Godinho. SambaDá’s ultimate goal isn’t just to preserve traditions the musicians are so well-versed in – including samba, bossa nova, pagode, samba reggae, batucada, and forró, plus some well-placed surf guitar – but also to get everyone dancing to their infectious blend of Brazilian roots and other North and South American styles such as funk, reggae, jazz, rock, and hip-hop. The group’s pulsating percussion, uplifting vocals, and rich melodies give it a distinctive sound, heard in both popular and original songs. SambaDá visited Brazil in July 2009 and became the first band from the U.S. to play at the legendary house of Ilê Aiyê, the first black Carnaval group in Brazil. The band also was a headliner at Ashkenaz’s 2013 anniversary celebration, “40 Years Dancing for Peace.”

Lead vocalist Dandha da Hora is a master dancer from Ilê Aiyê, and singer-guitarist Godinho is a master of the Brazilian martial art form capoeira. The band also includes percussionists Ibou Ngom (from Senegal) and Will Bates-Minou, saxophonist-flutist Anne Stafford, bassist Etienne Franc, and drummer Gary Kehoe.

Singer Rahan Boxley presents his fresh dance music that ranges from traditional Congolese to American R&B, reggae, house, funk, capoeira, and Afro stylings. Boxley is a singer-songwriter and recording artist born in Cleveland now residing in the Bay Area. From his roots in freestyling and MCing/rapping, he has evolved into a more versatile vocal artist with a unique and soulful sound that draws from various music genres. He’s open for collaborating with producers, meeting musicians, and performing his craft virtually anywhere on the planet. With a band of fellow open-minded musicians, he showcases his original songs.