Music & Culture

Cimafunk on his Afro-Cuban roots, funk influence and band built on connection

by Felix Contreras

NPR Music celebrates 15 years with Cimafunk, Bartees Strange, Leikeli47, and Cory Henry at 9:30 Club in Washington, D.C. on November 28, 2022. (Eric Lee for NPR)
Eric Lee / Eric Lee for NPR
NPR Music celebrates 15 years with Cimafunk, Bartees Strange, Leikeli47, and Cory Henry at 9:30 Club in Washington, D.C. on November 28, 2022. (Eric Lee for NPR)

One of the most significant things I learned in speaking with the musician Cimafunk at NPR Music's 15th anniversary celebration was about his recognition of and allegiance to his Afro-Cuban culture. During our conversation, he explains the origins of his stage name and how it reflects the history of the trans-Atlantic slave trade.

We also discuss how two strands of the African diaspora are joined every time he takes the stage. After listening to this conversation, I hope you'll understand more about what makes his music so exhilarating.

Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.

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