User:KhamuoHru/sandbox/The Urban Shamans Band

The Urban shamans Band In 2004, the band officially formed as a unified entity, calling the unit The Urban Shamans. A Shaman is one who is capable of healing and transforming a person through spiritual means. More than a band emitting music from instruments, The Urban Shamans envisioned themselves as a collective group yearning for a connection to its audience--an audience who would then vibrate with those African rhythms from the Djembe, the rift of the guitar bass, and the lyrical flow of the spoken word whether via song or poetic means.

Prior to the year 2000, The Urban Shamans were yet to exist in the conscious world. However, the universe had already begun to work its magical illuminations. Although each individual band member was moving about in their own paths, it was the chance meeting of Khamuo Kamel Heru and Brother Levi Hudari Sungu Ra (The Traveler) that the notion of this band began to emanate. The two, who met at the Community College of Philadelphia, shared commonalities in music, community, social activism and brotherhood. Before collaborating with music, the two implemented various programs around Philadelphia to empower and motivate the youth.

Brother Levi's moniker, The Traveler, is true to the essence of who he is because many of the other band members would come through their acquaintances with him. Working through Brother Levi, the universal forces brought Brother Mavro Elite to the Gallery Mall in the center of the city where Brother Levi was playing his drum. Fascinated by the rhythms of the drum, Mavro rushed to a nearby store to purchase a $2.00 whistle. Thus, another crucial connection was made. Another founding member of the Shamans, Sister Britney, who now resides in California, was influential in creating the initial rhythms and sounds of this group. Although Britney is not physically here as a member now, her essence will always be apart of the band.

As an elder musician for many years, Charles Timmons, or Timi Tanzania as he is most commonly known, gravitated toward the band and added his musical style and flavor. While assisting as a band consultant with Khamuo and Mavro, reformed hardcore rapper Khalief Khadafi (a.k.a. Konfidential) evolved into an Urban Shaman. Konfidential's lyrical finesse was a natural fit to the band's calling. Through community ties, naturally, the group was able to artistically impact individuals. Heeding the call, Farugh Maat regularly attended the group shows rejoicing with sensational dance, while the band performed. Moved by Farughs passion in performing, mutual efforts in community and brotherhood. Farugh Maatjoin forces with the group.

The Urban Shamans represents more than just a band. The members, all with their own uniquely identified musical footprints, agree that there is a strategic method to establishing a movement. A movement that is capable of transforming a world community that embraces peace, love, balance, righteousness, and harmony.

The Mission The Urban Shamans have uniquely defined their mission, using musical vibrations in order to move people to action, change, spiritual connectedness, and prosperity. Through musical expression, in many of its forms, this band of visual artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, healers, designers, and activists is unified to speak the truth in order to bring cultural enlightenment, prosperity, unity, love, balance, harmony, healing and health to the community.