Culcha Candela

Culcha Candela is a multicultural band from Berlin, officially founded on 7 July 2002 by Johnny Strange (Germany/Uganda), Itchyban (Poland), and Lafrotino (Colombia). They were soon joined by Larsito, Mr. Reedoo, Don Cali, and DJ Chino con Estilo – a lineup whose diverse backgrounds are reflected directly in the music: lyrics switch between German, English, Spanish, and Patois. The band is signed to Universal Music Group. Their debut album *Union Verdadera* (2004) and *Next Generation* (2005) laid the foundation of a reggae-influenced style; early tours alongside Saïan Supa Crew, Gentleman, and Söhne Mannheims built a strong live reputation. The commercial breakthrough came with their self-titled third album (2007), driven by the number-one single "Hamma!", which went platinum in Germany. Further hits followed with "Partybus" (2007), "Monsta" (2009), and the football anthem "Von Allein" (2012). Both *Schöne neue Welt* (2009) and the greatest-hits collection *Das Beste* surpassed one million copies sold. Today the band counts over two million monthly Spotify listeners and is gearing up for their 25th anniversary in 2027 with a new album and a major tour. Culcha Candela are a staple of the German-speaking festival circuit, delivering high-energy Dancehall, Latin, and big-beat pop to large audiences.