Sammy Kasule

Bass player and vocalist Sammy Kasule is the leader of Makonde, a Stockholm-based band comprised of musicians from Sweden, Zaire, and Gambia. Combining elements of African soukous and Afro-Cuban rhythms, the group is known for its slick, pop-oriented sound. Kasule initially attracted attention as a member of Vundumuna, a group that he founded in 1984 with guitarist Tabu Frantal and keyboardist Botango Bedjil. After recording three memorable albums, the group disbanded in 1986. © Craig Harris /TiVo