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: Bi Kidude
Tag: Tanzanian music
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…
Artist Profiles: Mim Suleiman
Mim Suleiman was born in Zanzibar (Tanzania) and lived in Shangani (Stone Town) for most of her childhood, where she attended Tumekuja School. Mim appeared…
Hip Shaking Tanzanian Rumba
Zanzibara 9 – Mbaraka Mwinsheshe & Orchestra Super Volcano – Masika, A Fresh Breeze from Tanzania – 1972-74 (Buda Musique, 2015) This population showcases one…
Artist Profiles: Afrikali Band
The Afrikali Band was formed in Tanzania at the end of 2004, comprising eight members aged between 16 and 26. Their music was a fusion…
Artist Profiles: African Revolution Band
African Revolution Band was formed in 1999. It was a splinter group from the African Beat and African Stars Bands (Wana Twanga Pepeta), who were…
Sweet, sweet perfume
Culture Musical Club – Waridi, Scents of Zanzibar/Waridi: Parfums de Zanzibar (US: EMI import/Europe: Jahazi Media, 2004) The soul of Stone Town is captured in…