Go Back

Allen Kwela

First Name: 

Last Name: 

Stage Name: 

Country: 

Born: 

D.O.D: 

Primary Language: 

Bio

Allen Kwela was a South African musical Luminary, who excelled as a kwela and jazz guitarist, penny whistler, composer, and bandleader. Raised in Durban, he learned music through ingenuity, fashioning a tin guitar. Initially associated with Spokes Mashiyane in Kwela music, he later ventured into jazz. His 2002 album, "The Broken Strings of Allen Kwela," earned award nominations, solidifying his reputation. Kwela became a revered and legendary figure in South African jazz, celebrated for his profound influence on the genre. His musical journey, from cattle herder to a masterful musician, left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and shape the world of South African music.

Discography

Albums²

The Best Of Allen Kwela2004 • albumTracks: 14

The Broken Strings Of Allen Kwela1998 • albumTracks: 9

Label

Record Label associated with Allen Kwela - past and current.

Similar Artists

Koos Du Plessis / Koos DoepSouth Africa |1945| Afrikaans

Jacobus Johannes du Plessis, also called Koos Doep, was a renowned singer-songwriter and poet celebrated for his evocative and socially-conscious lyrics that reflected the South African reality during the apartheid era. He began his music career in the early 1970s and quickly gained popularity for his emotive performances and lyrical depth. Du Plessis wrote songs in both Afrikaans and English, addressing political and social issues, reflecting the turbulent times in South Africa. His most famous song "Kinders van die Wind," recorded by Laurika Rauch, became a South African anthem, capturing the yearning and hardships of the people during apartheid. Du Plessis passed away at 38 on January 15, 1984, but his legacy continues to inspire many artists and fans in South Africa.

Derek GripperSouth Africa |1920| English

Derek Gripper is a highly skilled guitarist from South Africa who has revolutionized classical guitar by embracing the kora, transcribing, and recording its iconic works. He gained significant recognition with his album "One Night on Earth: Music from the Strings of Mali," garnering acclaim from John Williams and Toumani Diabaté. He was previously a member of the Dorp Band and has graced many prestigious events, including performances at the Royal Conservatory Toronto, the Rochester Jazz Festival, and the Shakori Hills Folk Festival, among others. His most noteworthy achievement came in 2012 when he completed a decade-long project dedicated to understanding and translating West African kora music, resulting in the production and release of two albums.

Jann HelexanderGabon |1982| French

Halexander, born Aurélien Makosso-Akendengué, is a versatile Franco-Gabonese artist known for his talents as a singer, songwriter, actor, and director. His artistic journey began at a young age, and he adopted the stage name "Jann Halexander" to pursue his career in France. With a prolific career spanning singles and albums released independently and under various record labels, Halexander has graced prestigious stages in France and worldwide. Beyond music, he has ventured into acting and directing, showcasing his diverse creative abilities. Jann Halexander's artistic pursuits have earned him recognition and a dedicated global fan base.

Andile YenanaSouth Africa |1968| English

Born in 1968 in King William's Town, Andile's love for music was triggered at an early age. He grew up in a household where music was really loved. His father, Felix Thamsanqa Yenana, had a huge collection of music, ranging from jazz to Motown, and other forms of urban black music[2] and this had a huge influence in Andile's life. Andile took up music studies under Darius Brubeck at the University of Natal's School of Jazz and Popular Music It was here that he became friends with saxophonist Zim Ngqawana and trumpeter Feya Faku.

Paul HanmerSouth Africa |1961| English

Paul Hanmer is a legendary South African composer and jazz pianist with a rich musical history. His journey began in childhood when he studied piano, later initiating a music career alongside guitarist Paul Petersen. In the 1980s, he co-founded the band Unofficial Language in Johannesburg with Peter Sklair and Ian Herman. During the 1990s, Hanmer contributed his talents to the Cool Friction Band led by Tony Cox. In 1997, he released his debut album, "Trains to Taung." Influenced by Keith Jarrett, Hanmer has demonstrated versatility by playing piano across various genres and composing for jazz artists, orchestras, chamber groups, and solo performers, primarily in jazz and classical styles.