Manga Drums – On Music, Talent, and Happiness

From the streets of Cairo emerges Manga Drums (@manga_drmus), a true force of rhythm and energy. We had the pleasure of chatting with him on WhatsApp to learn more about his journey.

How did you first get into drumming?

Manga: I had autism but I was also very gifted. I have had quick, nimble hands since I was young. My love for music started in 2013. There were always a lot of weddings happening, and I fell in love with them and all kinds of music, whether it was from a DJ or live drums. I had a small, handmade drum kit that I would take out to the streets to play among the people. I loved to dance, too.

Do you have a teacher, or are you self-taught? What was your learning journey like?

Manga: The talent is a gift from God. I am self-taught. No one else in my family does anything like this. I learned by watching videos.

Tell us more about your performances at weddings and street parties.

Manga: It’s very casual. It’s called a "farah" (a wedding celebration), not a formal party or concert. A farah, in general, is a source of happiness. It’s all about joking, laughing, dancing, and just pure joy.

What's your favourite venue to play in?

Manga: I love to play anywhere in the world because I love music so much, and I want to make people happy.

How would you describe the rhythmic style you play?

Manga: Most of the drumming rhythms in Egypt are Maqsum and Malfuf, but there are so many other rhythms as well.

What's your creative process like?

Manga: In that moment [when I'm playing], I close my eyes completely and I become the drums. In a way, I am just meditating on the drums.

You've built an incredible following on social media. What do you think it is about your videos that makes them so popular?

Manga: The love from the people is a gift from God. For my part, I just love to play, and I post my videos because I want people to connect and engage with me.

Tell us about your drum setup.

Manga: I play with a drum set, roto-toms, and a "tabla" (darbuka).

How do you practice? Do you play specific drum exercises?

Manga: I don’t really have specific exercises. The talent itself comes with its own special abilities.

What are your aspirations for the future? Are there any new musical projects or collaborations you're excited about?

Manga: I want to make everyone in the world happy, and I want to study at a music conservatory. I'm excited for any collaboration with anyone! ❤️

What do you love about Cairo? If we visited, what are the top 3 things we should do?

Manga: First, you have to come to a wedding. Second, you have to go to a party. And third, you have to eat all the Egyptian food! ❤️

Thanks!

I'm so happy to have done this interview! ❤️❤️🫶🏼