Filipino Folk Fusion Band, SamaSama Project, Nominated for Chicago Reader's Best of Chicago 2023

Filipino Folk Fusion Band, SamaSama Project, Nominated for Chicago Reader's Best of Chicago 2023

Chicago, IL - January 2, 2024‍

SamaSama Project, the Midwest's trailblazing Filipino Folk Fusion band, is proudly celebrating its 15th year of captivating audiences with their unique blend of musical genres. Founded in 2008 and aptly named "SamaSama," meaning "united" or "together" in Filipino, the band has enthralled music enthusiasts with their fusion of Filipino folk, jazz, reggae, ska, blues, disco, and Latin rhythms inspired by the iconic Manila Sound movement of the 1970s.

Led by the dynamic duo of singer and musical actress Lou Ella Rose and multi-talented musician and arranger Baron Lloyd Cabalona, SamaSama Project has solidified its presence by seamlessly merging traditional Filipino melodies with contemporary beats, captivating audiences at prestigious venues and events both locally and internationally.

With a stellar track record of performances that span illustrious venues such as Chicago Navy Pier, Chicago White Sox, House of Blues, and an exceptional record-setting crowd of 14,000 at Madrid's World Youth Day, SamaSama Project has been a musical ambassador, showcasing the rich tapestry of Filipino culture and music across the globe.

Their musical prowess has not gone unnoticed, as the band was selected as one of the top 20 semi-finalists for Chicago DCASE's Chicago Made Music Showcase, surpassing nearly 200 competing artists. Now, the SamaSama Project has garnered yet another achievement as one of the nominees for the esteemed Best World Music Act at Chicago Reader's Best of Chicago 2023.

What sets SamaSama Project apart is their commitment to promoting diversity and honoring the intertwined history of two nations through their music. In line with this mission, they launched "The Great Filipino Songbook," a compilation of songs and narratives that defined the course of Philippine music during America's Golden Age. Following a successful four-month residency at Davenport’s Piano Bar, the band is gearing up for an upcoming tour showcasing "The Great Filipino Songbook" next year.

To support and vote for SamaSama Project as the Best World Music Act at Chicago Reader's Best of Chicago 2023, visit bit.ly/vote4SAMA and cast your vote. Voting closes on January 14, 2024 11:59PM CT. Join the movement to recognize their exceptional talent, dedication to cultural celebration, and musical innovation.

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For press inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact:samasamaproject@gmail.com 708-528-6321

Website: www.samasamaproject.com

Follow SamaSama Project on social media:

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SamaSamaProject

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SamaSamaProject