Zangano Music | A World Class Vocalist and Percussionist

“One of the most important singers of all times”

– The Washington Post

Imani means Faith

As a vocalist, percussionist, composer, and collaborator, Imani’s music covers an entire tapestry of musical colors that takes the listener on a journey. What you hear in the music is a group effort. Their array of energetic sounds embodies original compositions and classic standards to contagious world rhythms. On the stage and off, it is her faith that inspires and brings everyday expressions of unity in diversity.

“Let yourself feel the music, open your mind and really listen to Imani.”

Pepe Gonzalez

Bassist Pepe Gonzalez is a performer, composer and teacher. He was the co-founder and bassist for the group Zapata in the late 60’s to mid-70’s. This diverse group was the first of its era to join African-Americans and Latin musicians together in Washington, DC. A prominent name in the Mid-Atlantic region and throughout the East Coast, Zapata had the honor of opening for such iconic acts as: Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Ramsey Lewis, Rashan Roland Kirk, Weather Report, the Isley Brothers, Sly and the Family Stone, Gil Scott Heron, Red Bone and many others.

An espresso-voiced song-weaver of rich, earthy texture and stunning vibrancy.

“IMANI has a warm, energetic unit that reaches out for one reason to connect with audiences of all ages. Their spirited sound is a captivating, infectious, and undeniable musical synergy that will become a part of you. Their array of energetic sounds embodies original compositions and classic standards to contagious world rhythms. She sings every song with her soul rooted firmly in it, and knows exactly what part of the journey it is.”

Latin American Folk Institute

“IMANI is a truly modern jazz singer – with strong roots in the past, an ear to the present and an eye on the future. If Betty Carter had done songs by Neil Young or Nine Inch Nails, she might have sounded much like IMANI, who has the chops and vision to make any tune sound like modern jazz. IMANI is a real jazz treasure.”

JazzTimes Magazine

“IMANI takes you on an evocative journey through heart and mind…an opportunity to explore one’s self and enjoy the music of the vocal artist and her musicians. Together their musical communication makes me, you; want to listen again and again, each time discovering something fresh through music born in the spirit.”

WPFW FM

“IMANI’s magic is a sonic aura that conjures up frame after frame of evocative images that will make you say whoo!”

Spiral Octave

“IMANI’s warmth and sensitivity has an artist, and ability to project in song a wide variety of human emotions, are indicative of a truly remarkable stylist who has brought new excitement to the various idioms of jazz.”

Atlanta Jazz Festival

Video Gallery

Imani & Wynton Marsalis with Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra at Festival de Jazz de Montréal

Imani – Iris

Featured Review

New York

All About Jazz-New York by Suzanne Lorge February 2009 DC-based vocalist/percussionist Imani has a deep, expressive voice equally at home on a jazz tune, a pop tune or a Hindi chant. All of these (and more) appear on her new CD Calling You (IFP Records).

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The Group

IMANI the group, is a warm, energetic unit that reaches out for one reason, to connect with you. Their spirited sound is a captivating, infectious and undeniable musical synergy that will become a part of you!

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