CHATA ADDY: Bio
CHATA ADDY
Chata Addy is a professional drummer, composer, dancer, and chorographer from Ghana, West Africa. He is a member of the renowned Addy family of musicians and dancers and performed with his father Tettey Kojo Addy in Ghana, his uncle Yukubu Addy in Washington D.C., his uncle Obo Addy in Portland, Oregon, The giving of one's special gift of music is an Addy tradition, and Chata has a rich background in both traditional and contemporary music to share. Performing allows Chata to share music which gives him pleasure. “All my life is about music. Music is a partner and a friend; it leads me to good feelings," says Chata. “I have to give what l do". Chata has a lot to give: as a solo performer, as a teacher, and as the force of his groups. "The dance, the drums– not everyone will feel it like l do. We all have different views, different understandings, but when you give the music a chance, treat it nice, you will feel it. My life has been about music for years. I'm the music"!! Chata has perfumed with O.J. Ekemode and the Nigerian All stars and I.K. Daro, and Northwest African American Ballet, and Jazz musician Randy Weston for the UW School of Music among others. Chata has recorded with internationally known artists King Sunny Ade and . E. Dide. Chata has toured the U.S., Japan, and Canada. Chata Addy is currently based in Portland, OR. Chata Addy has recorded two solo albums containing traditional drumming and singing of Ghana. Chata has also recorded one album with his 6 piece band Susuma.
CHATA ADDY THE MUSIC MAN
Chata Addy & SUSUMA play upbeat dance music, which Chata calls Afro Reggae & Funky Highlife blending traditional and contemporary world beat sounds which makes people want to dance! Chata Addy - lead vocalist and song writer, plays three congas, and the talking drum and is backed by an exciting band. Chata's background in drumming brings plenty of energy to the stage and simply wants everyone to dance and have a good time. The members of Susuma perform on a variety of instruments, including percussion, drum kit, keyboards, saxophone, electric guitar and electric bass.
Chata Addy & Susuma have one CD available for purchase titled "This is what I Feel". Chata Addy & Susuma have opened for I.K. Daro, Jimmy Cliff, The Mathalian Queens, and Kanda Bongo man among others. Susuma mean "soul" in Ga, Chata's native languge.
CHATA ADDY THE MUSIC MAN
Shi Dah- Traditional drumming and dance group:
Shi Dah performs Ghanaian traditional music and dance. Shi Dah brings the irresistible rhythms, melodies, and movements of both traditional and modern west Africa to the audiences.
Chata Addy and Shi Dah are available for School Programs, performances, and workshops.
Shi dah means "thanks" in our language of Ga.
CHATA ADDY SOLO DRUMMING AND DANCE
Solo performance: Chata perform traditional Ghanaian drumming and dance where the audience can fully participate in the musical experience under my instruction. I bring the irresistible rhythms, melodies, and movements of both traditional and modern West Africa to my audience so that they will take with them the culture of my home country of Ghana.
CHATA ADDY DRUMMING & DANCE CLASSES & WORKSHOPS
FOR KIDS AND ADULTS
Drumming and dance workshops for kids and adults:
My focus is to teach kids and adults West African rhythms. l will help them to feel the rhythms and sing the drum beat which will give my students the opportunity to gain a deeper enjoyment of the sounds and movements of my native music. This is a fantastic way for me to share the basics of my traditional culture using interactive, hands on skill building on the drums. Understanding Ghanaian music, dance, and life style can enhance any student beyond the walls of the classroom and enrich their creative expression. At the end of the workshop they will put on a performance for their families and friends. "When you teach children, you give them something to work with when they grow up. Children don’t fight the rhythms".
Drum To The Drum!