Massada is a Dutch-Moluccan Latin rock band from Huizen, founded in 1973 by singer and percussionist Johnny Manuhutu. The band blends South American rhythms with Moluccan musical traditions - the tifa drum is a signature element - and drew frequent comparisons to Santana during their 1970s and 1980s heyday. Their number-one hit 'Sajang é' (1980) and landmark shows at Pinkpop and the International Java Jazz Festival cemented a cult reputation that has endured for over five decades.
Massada XL performs in June 2026 in Hoorn, together with The Latin Explosion and saxophonist Hans Dulfer.
Founder Johnny Manuhutu received on 4 October 2025 a Royal Decoration - Knight in the Order of Orange-Nassau - for his role as a bridge builder between Moluccan and Dutch culture.
Massada performed on 1 February 2025 an XL-show at the Muziekgieterij in Maastricht, together with Latin Explosion.
In May 2024 Massada performed at podium Gigant in Apeldoorn, with twelve musicians on stage.
In September 2023 Massada celebrated its fiftieth anniversary with a reunion tour and founder Johnny Manuhutu released the book 'Astaganaga' about the history of the band and the Moluccan community.
American jazz ensemble Massada performs at Patronaat in Haarlem.
Legendary Dutch-Moluccan band Massada brings their distinctive blend of Latin rock and Moluccan music to the stage, with DJ Teddy Talapessy providing the opening and closing sets.
