One of the many appeals of Goa lies in its vibrant entertainment scene. The state is dotted with an impressive array of bars and restaurants, each catering to a diverse range of tastes and preferences. Adding to this rich tapestry of culture and leisure, is a thriving community of musicians, both solo artists and bands, who perform at these lively venues. Musicians from all corners of India and beyond congregate in Goa to perform, vibe and make new music. Herald Café met up with a few musicians from foreign shores to hear about their journeys and musical experiences in Goa.
Among these artists is Mans Ryback, a singer and trombone player with a compelling story. Born in Goa but adopted by a couple from Sweden, Ryback has a deep-rooted connection with this vibrant state. “I have visited India before, but not Goa. Last New Year, I came to Goa with my two sons. I was born in Goa but adopted by a Swedish family in the early '70s. I’ve always been curious to explore the place of my birth,” he reflects. During his visit, he sought to immerse himself in the local culture, connecting with people and hearing their stories while sharing his own.
As a musician, Ryback was eager to discover the jazz scene in Goa that he had heard so much about. He reached out to Colin D’ Cruz, a well-known figure in the local music community, who invited him to participate in a festival in Mapusa. “Getting an invitation on short notice is very rare in Sweden, where I live, so I was thrilled and surprised by Collin's invitation,” he says. “I hope the festival-goers in Mapusa enjoyed my performance. The trombone isn’t very common, so I hope it resonated with them. I’m incredibly grateful to Collin; he made me feel so welcome and inspired me to return and perform more. That’s why I’m coming back this New Year.”
Ryback believes Goa has the potential to become a hotspot for musicians worldwide. “I think Goa can be a new destination for artists looking for vibrant surroundings to perform in. More festivals and performance venues would only enhance this. The friendly atmosphere, delicious food, and welcoming locals create a perfect backdrop for music,” he asserts. Although he is still learning about Goa and its people, one thing is clear: he is eager to explore more through his music in this enchanting state.
Reflecting on his interactions with Goans, Ryback expresses admiration for the warmth and enthusiasm he encountered. “The musicians I played with truly showed their love for music. This positive energy creates an environment where something special can happen. On stage in Mapusa, I felt the power of music to unite people from all walks of life. It’s clear that music holds great significance for many, and Goa serves as an ideal setting for such connections.”
Another artist who has made Goa her home is Miramar, a singer from the Philippines who has been performing in the state for a decade. She cherishes the vibrant atmosphere that Goa offers, stating, “Goa is a tourist spot that attracts people from all over the world, each with their own musical tastes. Some appreciate jazz, while others lean toward R&B. The appreciation for music here is palpable, and as artists, we receive tremendous exposure. The locals truly know their music and are willing to express their appreciation.”
Russian singer Olga also chose Goa for its inviting climate. “I opted for Goa because it’s warm here, while my hometown is cold and cloudy,” she explains. “I wanted a change of scenery, and the reality exceeded my expectations in so many ways. The friendly attitude of fellow musicians and the warm welcome from the audience left me pleasantly surprised. I hope to see more venues dedicated to jazz jams in Goa, where musicians from around the globe can gather and perform.”
A pivotal figure in this musical migration is Colin D’Cruz, a veteran jazz musician with deep ties to the local music scene. “Goa has always attracted international artists who find inspiration in our beautiful state,” he says. “My band, Jazz Junction, has featured hundreds of accomplished virtuosos from around the world over the last two decades. Many of these artists return season after season, and some even decide to call Goa home.”
D’ Cruz highlights Goa's abundance of live music venues, claiming it likely has the most in the world. “The laid-back vibe and informal jam sessions encourage creativity and collaboration,” he adds. “These global interactions have elevated the entertainment scene and inspired local artists to reach new heights. Our Jazz Goa studio has produced over two hundred albums with world-class production values, thanks to the selfless contributions of visiting artists over the years. Goa has truly evolved into a global hub for musicians, and that’s why I choose to live here rather than anywhere else. As I’ve always said, ‘Why should I travel the world when the music comes to me right here in Goa?’”
The presence of foreign musicians enriches the local scene, adding unique flavours and perspectives that enhance the overall experience. The interactions fostered through music help to maintain vital human connections across cultures. As Goa continues to thrive as a destination for music lovers and artists alike, one can only hope that this vibrant exchange persists, creating a lasting legacy of collaboration and creativity.