Michael KiwanukaUganda |1987| EnglishMichael Kiwanuka is a British-Ugandan musician and singer-songwriter born to Ugandan parents who fled Idi Amin's regime. Raised in North London, he developed an early passion for music. His debut album, "Home Again," released in 2012, received widespread acclaim, earning him a nomination for the Mercury Prize, which he later won in 2020. Kiwanuka's distinctive voice and introspective lyrics have captivated audiences, leading to the creation of other remarkable albums such as "Love & Hate" in 2016 and "Kiwanuka" in 2019. Embracing classic soul and R&B influences from the 1960s and 70s, his music also incorporates a modern sensibility that resonates with today's listeners.
Sasha SonnbichlerSouth Africa |1959| AfrikaansSasha Sonnbichler, a multifaceted talent in the realm of jazz, hails from Johannesburg, South Africa. His diverse skill set spans jazz guitar performance, arrangement, and education. Notably, he held the position of Musical Director at Parktown High School for Girls and furthermore served as the Creative Director of Music for The Outreach Foundation in Hillbrow. Sasha's educational journey led him to Berklee College of Music, where he earned a master's certificate in music arrangement, and subsequently to the American Institute of Music. He received recognition with a nomination at the South African Music Awards (SAMA). In 2002, he unveiled his debut album, "Ndaa," under BMG Africa's Giant Steps label. Following this success, his second album, "Tan Huts," was released through Beyond the Box Music.
Manu DibangoCameroon |1933| FrenchManu Dibango, born in Douala, Cameroon, was a revered musician, composer, and saxophonist who played a vital role in introducing African music to the global stage. Growing up in a diverse cultural environment, Dibango developed a distinct sound on the saxophone, blending Cameroonian rhythms with jazz, funk, and Afrobeat influences. In 1972, he gained international recognition with the release of "Soul Makossa," a chart-topping hit that propelled him to global fame. Dibango's music transcended boundaries, captivating audiences worldwide. His live performances showcased his exceptional talent and stage presence, leaving a lasting impact on listeners. Manu Dibango's legacy endures. Despite his passing on March 24, 2020, his unique sound and pioneering efforts continue to inspire and resonate with music lovers globally.
Luis MoraisCape Verde |1935| PortugueseLuís Morais was a Cape Verdean musician, songwriter, arranger and clarinetist who is considered one of the greatest musicians of Cape Verde. He was a pioneer of the first recordings made in Cape Verde, and learned to play and compose music in Dakar, Senegal before moving to Rotterdam, Netherlands and Lisbon, Portugal.
Beautiful NubiaNigeria |1968| YorubaSegun Akinlolu, known as Beautiful Nubia, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, composer, and band leader. Inspired by Nigeria's traditional culture, he founded EniObanke in 1997 and released his debut album. EniObanke Music Festival, Nigeria's first folk and roots music festival, was initiated by his company. In 1998, Beautiful Nubia formed The Roots Renaissance Band, gaining fame with their third album, "Jangbalajugbu," featuring the hit track "Owuro L'Ojo." Despite piracy, the album sold over a million copies. With 14 more studio albums, Beautiful Nubia's music is didactic, philosophical, and moving, advocating for personal development and social justice. His unique style has received acclaim and reached international charts. Segun Akinlolu continues to captivate audiences with his passion and cultural wisdom.
Tony AllenNigeria |1940| EnglishAlthough famous for drumming, Tony Allen was also a composer, and singer-songwriter. He began his career playing with highlife bands in Nigeria in the 1960s and later joined Fela Kuti's band, where he helped develop the style of music known as Afrobeat. Allen's complex polyrhythmic drumming was a key element of Afrobeat, and he went on to work with other musicians around the world. He passed away in 2020, but his legacy as one of the greatest drummers in the world lives on.
Moses KhumaloSouth Africa |1979| EnglishMoses Khumalo was a South African jazz saxophonist known for his incredible talent. He first learned to play the piano before gaining mastery of the saxophone in 1995. In 1995, his debut performance at the Grahamstown National Arts Festival earned him acclaim in the jazz world. He was a member of Moses Taiwa Molelekwa's band and worked with notable musicians, including Hugh Masekela, Sibongile Khumalo, and Paul Hanmer. Moses passed in 2006 from unspecified causes.
