Anastasio Nsó, a talented musician, has captivated audiences with his unique sound and infectious rhythms. Born in Equatorial Guinea, West Africa, Anastasio’s musical journey began in his early years, surrounded by a family that embraced music. His father, a skilled guitarist, would host gatherings filled with singing, dancing, and drumming, creating a vibrant musical atmosphere that would shape Anastasio’s passion for music.
During this time, Anastasio had the opportunity to meet Ecuaga Miko, a renowned musician who traveled from village to town, sharing the traditional ‘Fang’ rhythms and melodies. This encounter left a profound impact on Anastasio, fueling his desire to pursue a career in music and explore the rich cultural heritage of Equatorial Guinea.
Growing up in Bata, Rio Muni district, Anastasio faced a scarcity of local recorded music on the radio. However, he found inspiration in the diverse musical styles that were prevalent in neighboring countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, and Nigeria. Additionally, influences from soukous music of Zaire, sounds from Spain, South America, and Cuba, as well as European and North American pop music, shaped his musical palette.
Combining these various influences with the traditional ‘elon’ rhythms and other musical styles of Equatorial Guinea, Anastasio developed his unique sound. Drawing from his roots and embracing the multicultural musical landscape around him, he created a captivating fusion that resonated with audiences.
After forming his first band, Annax, in Madrid, Anastasio and his group began performing throughout Spain. Their talent caught the attention of a popular Spanish duo, Eduardo Rodrigo and Teresa Rabal, leading to Anastasio touring with them. This experience provided valuable exposure and further honed his skills as a musician.
Later, Anastasio migrated to Canada and formed a new band called Annax Bickie and Zalang, becoming one of the pioneers in introducing African music to Toronto in the mid-’80s. Their energetic performances and infectious rhythms quickly gained popularity, and they had the opportunity to record albums such as ‘Harvest Time’ and ‘Cosecha,’ which showcased their unique sound.
One of the highlights of Anastasio’s career was the release of an award-winning video called ‘I Can’t Sleep.’ This visual masterpiece captured the essence of his music and further solidified his reputation as a talented and innovative musician.
Anastasio and his band performed in popular Toronto clubs, including The Phoenix, The El Mocambo, The Bamboo Club, and the Harborfront Centre. Their electrifying performances brought the vibrant sounds of Equatorial Guinea to a diverse audience, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene in Toronto.
Throughout his career, Anastasio Nsó has remained true to his roots, infusing his music with the rhythms and melodies of Equatorial Guinea while embracing the diverse influences that have shaped his musical journey. His dedication to his craft and his ability to create a captivating fusion of styles have made him a respected and influential figure in the music industry.
As Anastasio continues to evolve as a musician, his passion for music and his commitment to preserving and sharing the cultural heritage of Equatorial Guinea remain at the heart of his artistic endeavors. Through his music, he continues to captivate audiences and inspire aspiring musicians around the world.
