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Dj Jimmy Jatt

Nigeria |1966| English

DJ Jimmy Jatt, formerly Master J whose real name is Oluwaforijimi Adewale Amu, is a celebrated Nigerian DJ and hip-hop trailblazer, based in the U.S. His early passion for music was inspired by his father, a sound equipment dealer. He initially pursued a career as a rapper, but when record label opportunities eluded him, transitioned into DJing, establishing JATT studio with his brothers' support. In 2006, he earned the Hip Hop World Hall of Fame award at The Headies' debut ceremony and renowned for his Jimmy's Jump Off concert, in 2008. His debut album, "The Definition," a mixtape features over 50 of Nigeria's top artists, and he also serves as the official DJ for Nigeria's Play Safe national campus tour.

Joe Beecham

Ghana |1920| English

Joe Beecham is a multi-talented gospel singer-songwriter, choirmaster, and pastor from Ghana. His music is a harmonious blend of traditional African and contemporary Christian music. With a church choir background in Takoradi, Beecham's musical journey took flight when he released his debut album, "M'asem bi," in 1998. This marked a turning point, propelling him to the forefront of Ghana's gospel music scene and earning him widespread recognition. Throughout his career, Beecham continued to shine with successful albums like "Nyame Ye (God is Good)" (2001), "Hallelujah" (2004), and "Live" (2007). In addition to his musical pursuits, he also serves as a pastor at the Holy Fire Ministries in Takoradi, where he remains a source of inspiration through his unwavering dedication to music and spirituality.

Fela Kuti

Nigeria |1938| English

Fela Kuti, born Olufela Olusegun Oludotun Ransome-Kuti, was a renowned Nigerian musician and activist who pioneered Afrobeat. He founded "Africa '70" and used his music fearlessly to confront Nigeria's corrupt government and advocate for social justice. Fela's music sparked both acclaim and controversy, solidifying his status as a cherished cultural figure in Nigeria. His powerful musical legacy transcended borders, inspiring movements and earning him numerous posthumous accolades and recognition.

Aaron Rimbui

Kenya |1979| Swahili

Harun Kimathi Rimbui, professionally known as Aaron Rimbui, is multi-talented Kenyan jazz and world music pianist, keyboardist, bandleader, record producer, studio engineer, drummer, composer, festival curator, and radio host based in the United States. His musical journey began as a child and In 1990, he began playing the drums. He co-founded the band "Jazz it all" during this time. In 2000, he ventured into music production, with an internship at Bruce Odhiambo's Johari Clef Studio. He also served as the music director for Eric Wainaina and released his debut album, "Keys Of Life." He gained recognition in 2008 when he won the Best Jazz Collaboration Album at the Kwetu Mzanzi Jazz Awards. Throughout his career, he has toured extensively and performed at numerous concerts.

Orits Williki

Nigeria |1967| English

Orits Williki is a Nigerian reggae artist and songwriter with over 30 years of experience in the music industry. The release of his debut album, "Tribulation" part produced by renowned music producer, Lemmy Jackson, launched his career into Nigeria's mainstream industry. He has released several other works and notably one single titled, "Heart of Stone" which he used to preach religious tolerance. Orits Williki's music is religiously-themed and it usually tackles issues such as poverty, corruption, and inequality in society.

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Upcoming Events

Ki’mon! The Eastern Nigerian Afro-Funk Revolution 1970-1980

...When music healed the wounds of war. A documemtary screening.

Houston, TX | Oct 19, 2024

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Orchestre Sinza Kotoko

Inactive | French | Congo

The music ensemble Orchestre Sinza Kotoko was established in 1965 in Ouenzé, Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo. The founding members comprised Hyacin...

Bantwanas

Active | Zulu | South Africa

Bantwanas, a South African music collective, was formed with the aim of blending traditional African rhythms with contemporary electronic sounds. The ...

Kintweni Sukisa

Active | Yombe | Congo (Democratic Republic of the)

Kintueni Yombe, also known as Kintueni Sukisa or Kintueni Kin-Stars, is a folk group hailing from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The group was foun...

Super Rail Band

Active | Bambara | Mali

The Super Rail Band of Bamako is a Malian musical group that was formed in 1970, also known as Bamako Rail Band, Rail Band, or Super Rail Band of the ...

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Marketing Strategies for Indie Artists

By Josplay Last Updated 10/15/2024 General

Many indie artists take on their promotions, largely due to insufficient funds to pay professionals. Here are tips for marketing strategies to make a difference.

Gqom Music: A Durban Classic –True Reflection of the Durban Raw Vibe

By Josplay Last Updated 10/10/2024 Genres

Gqom (pronounced with a click of the tongue – Nqu-om) is a pulsating and energetic sound started by teenagers in Durban.

Caltonic SA: ANCESTRAL - EP Review

By Josplay Last Updated 10/8/2024 Reviews

South African Singer-songwriter Caltonic SA releases his third EP, Ancestral, in just six months. The 4-track Afrohouse project pays homage to the ancestral Afrohouse style while injecting new flavors.

Darkovibes: Intercontinental - EP Review

By Josplay Last Updated 10/3/2024 Reviews

InterContinental is a 6-track masterpiece by Ghanaian artist Darkovibes. The EP showcases Darkovibes creativity, talent, and dedication to redefining Ghanaian music for the global audience.

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African Music is rich, yet misunderstood and inaccurately represented. AML is on a mission to change that.

African Music Library is the world's most comprehensive knowledge base for African Music.

The Library is supported by a team of musicologists, engineers and literary experts committed to closing the knowledge gap and codifying African music for better participation in the digital economy.