Lincoln City to receive a special Blessing
Blessing “Bled” Chimanga will bring an evening of music rooted in the rhythms and spirit of Zimbabwe to the Lincoln City Cultural Center this Saturday, Dec. 20.
The internationally celebrated marimba player, percussionist, singer and songwriter is known for dynamic performances that turn concerts into full-room celebrations.
“Blessing Chimanga brings an energy that fills the entire room,” said Jason Corso, program director at the cultural center. “When he was here in August, at one point he jumped off the stage and led a conga line through the auditorium without ever stopping his singing or smiling. This month he is bringing his full six-piece band to Lincoln City, so we are sure to experience another high-energy, interactive show.”
Chimanga’s music blends energetic African rhythms, virtuosic marimba work and a magnetic stage presence that connects with guests of all ages. He has performed at major festivals including the Harare International Festival of the Arts in Zimbabwe, the Global Isai Festival in India and Iguazú en Concierto in Argentina, and has shared stages with artists such as Oliver Mtukudzi, Sona Jobarteh, Freshlyground and Eric Wainaina. His tours as a performer, workshop leader and cultural educator have taken him to more than 20 countries.
Beyond the stage, Chimanga coaches marimba ensembles, produces cultural showcases and works with iAM Music to support educational programming in the United States. He also serves as an adjudicator for major marimba festivals, including South Africa’s largest competition featuring more than 400 bands in 2024. A 2024 Voice of America television feature on his work became one of the platform’s most-viewed interviews of the year, underscoring his growing international influence.
Saturday’s concert begins at 7 pm at the Lincoln City Cultural Center, located at 540 NE Hwy. 101 in Lincoln City. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. For more information, go to lincolncity-culturalcenter.org or call 541-994-9994.