Kulturu: Keti Koti memorial concert

Artists

Romana de Meneges, a versatile saxophonist, embodies the belief that "music is life." With her first EP in the works, she aims to touch hearts with her heartfelt melodies. Her musical journey began at the age of six when she discovered the flute and joined an orchestra at the age of seven. Immersed in percussion and piano, she explored sounds from Suriname, Aruba and beyond, a journey of self-discovery intertwined with music.

Sangrafu is a dynamic group that is deeply rooted in the Winti tradition but has mainly achieved fame with its authentic kawina music. Founded 24 years ago and directly from Suriname, they bring Surinamese culture to life with traditional song, dance and instruments. Led by Claybert Hoepel, they offer an unforgettable experience full of energy and passion.

Rincho started singing tambú at a young age and has developed into a versatile artist who masters various music styles, including seú, ritmo kombiná and urban. He is the founder of the drum & brass band KalentuRa Drums, with which he has won several awards and performed internationally.

Sherry Dyanne, born in 1974 in Amsterdam with a Caribbean mix of Surinamese, Dominican, and Caribbean blood, surprised herself by participating as Erykah Badu in the Soundmix show, where she came second in the final. From a former math teacher to a passionate singer, she has developed her own style, from subdued jazzy original work to charming interpretations of the Otis Redding repertoire. Her time with the versatile artist Michael Franti was a crucial period of development, where she discovered her own voice and musical direction, sharing the stage with greats such as George Duke and Trijntje Oosterhuis.

Ralitsa Maduro, a leading figure within the black community in the Netherlands, is known as a passionate fighter with outspoken opinions. As a proud Curaçaoan and Surinamese representative, she has acquired a strong position. Through her influential platform, Melanin Kitchen, she brings the community together through the power of food, with recipes, restaurant visits and events. Her 'Dear Mama' initiative during the Pentecost weekend last year, in which she set up a small grant for black entrepreneurs, was a great success. Ralitsa embraces her roots with passion, both online and offline, and will continue to strive for connection and empowerment.

The Surinamese group Prisiri Fu Wi Afo performs dance and sayings in traditional costume, the koto. This clothing style, derived from the word kotomisi, which means 'skirt woman', comes from the time of slavery. Enslaved people had to dress with as many rags and cloths as possible to make themselves unattractive to the lecherous master of the house.