Papiba & Friends brings together three visionary and genre-blending musicians, each with deep roots in Santa Cruz’s vibrant music scene.

Papiba Godinho—guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter—is best known as the founder of SambaDá, one of Santa Cruz’s most beloved bands. A capoeira mestre and cultural ambassador, Papiba also runs a Brazilian cultural arts center in Santa Cruz.

Etienne Franc (aka roKsta OrKestra) is a dynamic bassist and vocalist who has performed locally and internationally for over two decades. A former member of SambaDá and Paradise Soul Savers, Etienne currently serves as musical director at Inner Light Ministries and a go-to bass player for many other bands and projects.

Gary Kehoe is a longtime staple of the Santa Cruz music community. A founding member of SambaDá and the world music group Special Fun, Gary is also known for his work with the California Honeydrops and as a sought-after drummer and percussionist across numerous local acts.

Blending rock, soul, funk, and samba, Papiba & Friends creates an electrifying sound that reflects their diverse backgrounds—from Brazil, Minnesota, and Brooklyn—and their shared passion for global grooves with a fresh, modern twist.