Show Do Man
http://www.showdoman.netfirms.com/
Toronto
based Congolese composer, singer and performer Show Do Man is undoubtedly
the first Africa musician to introduce the infectious dance style
known as rumba-soukous to Canada in the 80's.
Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, formerly called Zaire, Show
Do Man spent his early years playing with different groups in Kinshasa,
the capital city. He perfected his music and dance skills and eventually
joined Zaiko Langa Langa, a band that became very popular in the 80's.
He went on to play with Congolese greats such as: Tabu Ley Rochereau,
Papa Wemba, Koffi Olomide, Dindo Yogo, Sam Mangwana and more. He speaks
many languages such as: French, German, Italian and various African
regional languages like Lingala, Kikongo and Swahili.
Show Do Man has written many songs and has released five independent
albums. One had been nominated for a Juno award in the world beat
recording category. In the late 90's, Show Do Man reached his pinnacle
when he released 'Entente Cordial' (Mutual Understanding), an award
winning album, recorded with the legendary Papa Wemba and Koffi Olomide.
After gaining international recognition for the album, Show Do Man
headed to Europe and Africa to meet with record labels to discuss
his new recording.
It was at this time, while in Abijan, Cote D'Ivoire that he suffered
serious injuries from a car accident, rendering him to learn to move
again with the aid of a wheelchair. His voice and spirit remained
intact and he went on to record a gospel album 'Alpha & Omega'
in 2002. The video for the song 'Jerusalem' from the album has been
aired on Bravo Television and Much Music. A short documentary of Show
Do Man's musical journey and his subsequent car accident, has been
showcased on Vision TV (Lives Interrupted).
Show Do Man remains a musical force to be reckoned with and is determined
to carry on performing and recording. He has toured in Canada, the
U.S., Europe and some of his performance highlights were appearances
at Afrofest in the Park, WOMAD, Caribana, Bacchanal, African Festival
of Washington and various jazz festivals.
Check out his web site at: http://www.showdoman.netfirms.com/
Showdo Man performed at Afrofest 1995, Afrofest 2000.