Press Release · Accra

    FUNKMATA Brings Cosmopolitan Pop Music From Accra to the World Stage

    FUNKMATA
    October 29, 2026
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    FUNKMATA

    ACCRA: A fresh sound is rising from Ghana. Singer and songwriter Robert Bannerman leads the project known as FUNKMATA. Working alongside talented session men from Accra, Bannerman represents a new generation of cosmopolitan African musicians. This group believes that Africa can make its mark on the international market with cosmopolitan pop music. Independent Radio FM is proud to showcase this bold vision and bring their music straight to your speakers.

    The Sound of Simple Stuff

    Listeners searching for a fresh sound can now turn their attention to Simple Stuff. This release puts the musical vision of FUNKMATA on full display. The project brings Robert Bannerman together with seasoned session players from Accra. Together, they build a sound designed to reach listeners across the globe.

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    The release highlights the idea that African artists can step onto the international market with cosmopolitan pop music. FUNKMATA focuses on clean songwriting and strong musical arrangements. Simple Stuff stands as a central statement for this new group of musicians. They combine their local roots in Accra with a modern outlook that connects with listeners everywhere.

    Musical Roots and Pure Groove

    Every musical journey begins with a spark. For FUNKMATA, that initial inspiration came over the airwaves. When asked about what got him started in music, Robert Bannerman pointed to Radio Caroline. That early listening experience helped shape his love for vibrant tunes and classic energy.

    When asked about who or what inspires his sound, Bannerman gave a clear answer:

    “Rock'n Roll”

    That classic inspiration drives the rhythm and style of FUNKMATA. The project takes that energy and channels it into every recording. The ultimate goal is simple and direct. When asked what he wants listeners to feel when they hear his music, Bannerman shared his focus:

    “Groove”

    The focus stays on rhythm, movement, and feel. The session men from Accra lay down the foundation, and the cosmopolitan pop style keeps the energy moving forward. It is music made to get people moving and feeling good.

    A New Generation on the Airwaves

    The movement does not stop in the studio. Independent Radio FM shares this forward thinking music with listeners every week. FUNKMATA believes that Africa has a major role to play in modern pop music worldwide. The sound proves that cosmopolitan pop music can travel anywhere while staying true to the musicians who craft it in Accra.

    You can catch FUNKMATA directly on the airwaves. Tune in to the Independent Radio FM Saturday show to hear their sound in action. Experience the rhythm, the craft, and the creative spirit that Robert Bannerman and his band bring to the global community.

    About FUNKMATA

    FUNKMATA is the birth of a new generation of cosmopolitan African musicians. The project features singer and songwriter Robert Bannerman alongside session men from Accra, Ghana. This new genre of artists feels that Africa can make its name on the international market with cosmopolitan pop music. With their release Simple Stuff, they continue to share their distinct vision with audiences around the world. Tune in to the Independent Radio FM Saturday show to hear FUNKMATA and discover their groove.

    Hear FUNKMATA and more independent artists every Saturday at 3 PM Eastern.