"Close your eyes and just feel the vibration" ~Oneko

From Nairobi Kenya...all the way to California

Click the song below to hear Oneko's unique voice!

Meet Oneko!

Oneko Arika is a world-renown percussionist, music teacher, DJ, and lover of all things music. Born in Nairobi Kenya, Oneko has been performing on stages around the world for the past 25 years playing different styles of percussion with musicians from every continent. He has performed with headliners at festivals around the world including the North Sea Jazz Festival (Rotterdam), Sauti Za Busara (Zanzibar), Creation of Peace Festival (Russia), and Reggae On The Mountain (California), just to name a few. Oneko is also a DJ. For the past 5 years, he hosted a weekly internet radio program called "Africa Reggae Road" gaining the largest listenership for the station. In mid-2024 he started a new podcast called "Reggae Vinyl Dissection with Oneko" - it is broadcast from The Vinyl Pharmacy in Palm Springs, CA. In addition to performing, Oneko is the co-founder of a nonprofit organization called March Forth Kenya Kids (MFKK). MFKK conducts their primary work in the neighborhood where Oneko grew up in Kenya. Using music, art and yoga, they aim to lead young people living under tough circumstances down a positive and successful life path. His love of teaching and youth empowerment has lead him to conduct music and art workshops for people all over the world. He also enjoys entertaining at group events and imparting his craft on the drum in 1:1 lessons.

For more detailed info on Oneko check out his Bio page!

IG: @dj_jahneko; @marchforthkenya

Services

I offer different services for groups of all sizes. No two sessions have ever been the same. My sessions morph based on the audience as well as the energy, feeling and response in the moment. It's a different kind of excitement to create what the audience needs on-the-spot based on the vibration. It's what I love to do! Check my Services page for more detailed descriptions.

One-man Performances

Oneko's one-man performances embody a "griot" vibe. He utilizes a variety of African traditional drums, to flutes, to woodwinds, and conches.

Parties & Group Sessions

Ideal for corporate meetings and family gatherings, Oneko is able to create a unique and entertaining session designed specifically for you.

1:1 Drum Lessons

Oneko has taught students as young as 2, and as old as 90. 1:1 lessons in person are preferred in the southern California area, from Los Angeles to Palm Springs, but zoom classes and travel can be arranged.

Session Percussion (Recording)

Oneko can be directed and can also organically ride-the-rhythm and create the sounds from thin air. He would love to give you something unique to work with.

Touring Percussionist

Oneko is open to short-term or long-term engagements that are the right fit, both with his talents and personality. He has experience as a percussionist on world tour since 2002.

DJ Services

Oneko can DJ for your event, your podcast or your radio station. He has hit the decks at many events in SoCal, including Cali Vibes and Afro Funke. Oneko also has a full PA sound setup available to rent for small events.

Rasta Tam Creator

Oneko is a gifted artisan. He specializes in handmade Rasta hats with a special stitch - every stitch done with a positive intention. Check out my Etsy store page to get one of your own!

Podcast Host

Oneko has never been short of words - IYKYK! He is a charismatic host and an encyclopedia of Reggae music. He currently hosts a weekly podcast called "Reggae Vinyl Dissection, with Oneko."