Shokazoba

Since 2005, Shokazoba has been a premier Afrobeat band based in Northampton Massachusetts. We are a collective of musicians who’ve come together to write and perform a unique blend of Jazz/Funk with a West African undertone and a conscious political message.

The music’s funky qualities and polyrhythms draw parallels to the works of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, and Funk legend James Brown. Interlocking guitar patterns and syncopated percussion seamlessly blend with jazz infused horn lines are guaranteed to have the entire audience dancing.

Shokazoba has played a variety of stages from small clubrooms to large festival main stages. Because our sound is so uplifting and accessible, it goes over well with all music lovers.

Over the years, many talented musicians have contributed to the development and refinement of the unique sound and style that is now Shokazoba. We thank them all for their unique contributions.

The band garnered the Valley Advocate Best of 2007, 2010, and 2011 award for World Music, Best of 2008 award for Funk, and Best Jazz in the My411 Source poll in 2009. Our albums “Think Like a Hammer” and "Congress For Sale" are available through all fine online music retailers. Shokazoba is currently working towards releasing a new album in 2013.