Ozomatli
Celebrating 30 Years
The Soundtrack of L.A.
If the city of Los Angeles had a soundtrack, it would be Ozomatli. Since their formation
in 1995, the six-piece, multi-genre band has been a cultural force, blending Latin, hip-
hop, funk, reggae, and global influences into an unmistakable sound that embodies the
energy and diversity of LA. In 2025, Ozomatli celebrates an incredible milestone: 30
years of bringing their dynamic, genre-defying music to audiences around the world.
Emerging from the politically charged streets of Los Angeles, Ozomatli’s origins are
steeped in activism and a desire to unite communities through music. This ethos has
carried the band across three decades, earning them a dedicated global following and
accolades that include three GRAMMY® Awards, four iconic performances at the
Hollywood Bowl, a TED Talk, and countless sold-out shows worldwide. From high-
profile TV appearances on The Today Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Austin City Limits
to groundbreaking tours in places like Burma and Mongolia, Ozomatli’s music and
message transcend borders, languages, and cultures.
The ensemble’s six founding members—Asdru Sierra (vocals, trumpet), Raul Pacheco
(vocals, guitars), Uli Bella (saxophone, vocals), Wil-Dog Abers (bass), Jiro Yamaguchi
(percussion), and Justin Poree (vocals, percussion)—have remained true to their
mantra: "We take you around the world through the heartbeat of Los Angeles." Their
music is a vibrant collision of styles, drawing from salsa, dancehall, cumbia, samba,
funk, merengue, New Orleans second line, Jamaican ragga, and Indian raga. This
eclecticism is at the heart of their sound, resonating with audiences of all ages and
backgrounds.
Ozomatli’s legacy extends far beyond their music. Known for their tireless community
involvement, the band has used their platform to amplify causes that matter, from
immigrant rights to education and beyond. Their ability to combine socially conscious
lyrics with infectious grooves has made them a beacon of unity and resilience, a band
that celebrates life while addressing the struggles that connect us all.
Their 30th anniversary is not just a celebration of longevity but also a testament to their
enduring relevance and innovation. With a career that began with their groundbreaking
1998 self-titled debut, they continue to evolve and inspire. Whether performing new
material or beloved classics, Ozomatli’s live shows remain a jubilant experience, igniting
dance floors and uniting communities.
As they embark on their fourth decade, Ozomatli stands as a symbol of Los Angeles’
past, present, and future—a band whose music is as multifaceted and vibrant as the city
they call home. Here’s to 30 years of Ozomatli, and the many more adventures yet to
come.
Fri Feb 21 2025
7:30 PM (Doors 6:00 PM)
$65.62
Ages 21+
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$65.62 Ages 21+
Ozomatli
Celebrating 30 Years
The Soundtrack of L.A.
If the city of Los Angeles had a soundtrack, it would be Ozomatli. Since their formation
in 1995, the six-piece, multi-genre band has been a cultural force, blending Latin, hip-
hop, funk, reggae, and global influences into an unmistakable sound that embodies the
energy and diversity of LA. In 2025, Ozomatli celebrates an incredible milestone: 30
years of bringing their dynamic, genre-defying music to audiences around the world.
Emerging from the politically charged streets of Los Angeles, Ozomatli’s origins are
steeped in activism and a desire to unite communities through music. This ethos has
carried the band across three decades, earning them a dedicated global following and
accolades that include three GRAMMY® Awards, four iconic performances at the
Hollywood Bowl, a TED Talk, and countless sold-out shows worldwide. From high-
profile TV appearances on The Today Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Austin City Limits
to groundbreaking tours in places like Burma and Mongolia, Ozomatli’s music and
message transcend borders, languages, and cultures.
The ensemble’s six founding members—Asdru Sierra (vocals, trumpet), Raul Pacheco
(vocals, guitars), Uli Bella (saxophone, vocals), Wil-Dog Abers (bass), Jiro Yamaguchi
(percussion), and Justin Poree (vocals, percussion)—have remained true to their
mantra: "We take you around the world through the heartbeat of Los Angeles." Their
music is a vibrant collision of styles, drawing from salsa, dancehall, cumbia, samba,
funk, merengue, New Orleans second line, Jamaican ragga, and Indian raga. This
eclecticism is at the heart of their sound, resonating with audiences of all ages and
backgrounds.
Ozomatli’s legacy extends far beyond their music. Known for their tireless community
involvement, the band has used their platform to amplify causes that matter, from
immigrant rights to education and beyond. Their ability to combine socially conscious
lyrics with infectious grooves has made them a beacon of unity and resilience, a band
that celebrates life while addressing the struggles that connect us all.
Their 30th anniversary is not just a celebration of longevity but also a testament to their
enduring relevance and innovation. With a career that began with their groundbreaking
1998 self-titled debut, they continue to evolve and inspire. Whether performing new
material or beloved classics, Ozomatli’s live shows remain a jubilant experience, igniting
dance floors and uniting communities.
As they embark on their fourth decade, Ozomatli stands as a symbol of Los Angeles’
past, present, and future—a band whose music is as multifaceted and vibrant as the city
they call home. Here’s to 30 years of Ozomatli, and the many more adventures yet to
come.
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