Bassist, singer and composer Richard Bona was born in Minta, Cameroon. Appreciated for both his versatility and virtuosity, the African started out as a session man for the likes of Joe Zawinul, Regina Carter and Harry Belafonte - under whom he served as artistic director for two years. Bona delivered his first solo recording in 1999: Scenes from My Life blended light jazz grooves with West-African rhythms. Released four years later, his first Verve effort, Munia : The Tale added Brazilian, funk and rock influences to the mix. For the acclaimed Tiki (2006), he summoned a host of distinguished guests, among them singer John Legend and guitarist Mike Stern. The Ten Shades of Blues comprised of 11 original compositions showcasing yet again the musician's multi-tasking skills. In 2010, Richard Bona became the 7th recipient of the Antonio Carlos Jobim Award,