All Stars Kikundi cha Taifa (National Taarab Orchestra) of Zanzibar was founded many years ago having a flexible set up but always featuring the finest…
Artist Profiles: National Taarab
Tag: Tanzanian music
Artist Profiles: Nadi Ikhwani Safaa
Founded in 1950, the Nadi Ikhwani Safaa orchestra can probably trace its roots back further than any other orchestra in Africa. Every known musician from…
Artist Profiles: Jahazi Modern Taarab
Established in Dar es Salaam during December 2006, Jahazi Modern Taarab group is currently the leading taarab group in Tanzania with more fans than any…
Artist Profiles: Jagwa Music
Founded in 1972 in the outskirts [Ng’ambo] of Dar es Salaam as a chakacha ngoma group – a style of traditional music performed mainly on…
Artist Profiles: Dr. Hukwe Zawose
Dr. Hukwe Zawose was one of Tanzania’s leading traditional musicians. His work was a joyful celebration of his heritage. He dressed in elaborate costume and…
Artist Profiles: Culture Musical Club
Culture Musical Club is not only the largest but also one of the most prolific and successful orchestras of Zanzibar, and they present taarab music…
Artist Profiles: Bi Kidude
Bi Kidude was an institution in Zanzibar, and East Africa’s greatest musical legend. The diva of Zanzibar taarab, she also played other musical styles…
Artist Profiles: Swifatui Abraar Group
Swifatui Abraar Group was formed in 2007. The group was started by three young men, Hassan Kumbi, Hassan Ahmada and Mashaka Kumbi, and more recently…
The Fabulous Musiki wa dansi of East Africa
Various Artists – Urgent Jumping! East African Musiki Wa Dansi Classics (Sterns Africa STCD 3067-68CD, 2016) This 2 CD world music compilation is packed with…
Artist Profiles: Tausi Women’s Taarab
Zanzibar’s all-female Tausi Taarab orchestra was formed in 2009 and presents classical style music in the tradition of some of Zanzibar’s strongest women. Dating back…