By Lindenberg Junior
It’s a pleasure to check how some “Gringos” have incorporated the Brazilian Culture in their life in some way. It is the case of Alex Lexa. This guy, originally from Germany, half German and half Arabic, has lived in Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Iraq and all over the US, and has worked in the music industry for over 30 years, principally as a DJ and producer specializing in Electronic Dance Music.
But when he started to work in the KPFQ 90.7 FM in L.A eight years ago and met Brazilian host and producer (Brazilian Hour) Sergio Mielniczenko, his journey of embrace our culture and be in love with all the Brazilian rhythms was just a snap.
“Sergio exposed me to all of the many diverse and different types of music that comes from Brazil. This piqued my musical curiosity and as I explored deeper and deeper into the roots of Bossa Nova, I developed a deep appreciation and excitement for Samba and all the variations” said Ali. Since then, he has played with many Brazilian musicians “masters” in California such as David de Hilster, Kirk Brundage, Lula Almeida, Rodney de Assis and Carlinhos Pandeiro de Ouro.
Samba da Mudança have performed at the Soul Brasil 100th issue celebration party at Samba Redondo
In February 2012 Ali Lexa created “Samba Da Mudança” to share positive energy and fellowship through Samba Drumming and Dance. He was heavily inspired by Dudu Fuentes, director of the Bloco Bangala Fumenga, and Marcus Santos creator of the Grooversity Brazilian drumming project. His concept was to founder a group that would meet regularly to work on traditional and progressive Samba music and rhythms, and inspire people to pick up a drum or shaker and feel the joy of Samba. He wanted a place that anybody could come to do samba drumming, dance and music.
The group now has regular rehearsals open to the public every Thursday evening at the Youth Justice Coalition located at 1137 E. Redondo Blvd, Inglewood, California 90302. “We are delighted to be part of this wonderful non-profit organization that offers numerous social, educational, musical and legal assistance programs for the youth in Los Angeles” said Ali Lexa. To check their Facebook Page.
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