Go Back
Michael Kiwanuka
First Name: 
Other Names: 
Last Name: 
Stage Name: 
Country: 
Born: 
Primary Language: 

Participations

117
Songwriter
116
Performer
10
Electric Guitarist
6
Acoustic Guitarist
7
Bassist
3
Vocalist
1
Synthesist
2
Pianist
1
Percussionist
1
Organist
1
Guitarist
1
Background Singer
4
Lead Vocalist
1
Lead Guitarist
1
Electric Pianist
Bio
Michael 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.
Discography
Discography not yet available. Check later.
Label
Record Label associated with Michael Kiwanuka - past and current.
    Similar Artists
    Manu Dibango
    Manu DibangoCameroon |1933| French
    Manu 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.
    Beautiful Nubia
    Beautiful NubiaNigeria |1968| Yoruba
    Segun 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 Allen
    Tony AllenNigeria |1940| English
    Although 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.
    Geoffrey Oryema
    Geoffrey OryemaUganda |1953| English
    Geoffrey Oryema was a renowned musician, statesman, and activist from Uganda. Oryema's family had a background in traditional Acholi music, which influenced his early years. Sadly, his father was killed during Idi Amin's regime in the 1970s, leading him to flee to Kenya and eventually settle in Paris, where he began his music career. Oryema blended traditional Ugandan music with Western influences, creating a unique style that earned him international acclaim. He released albums like "Exile" and "Beat the Border" and collaborated with acclaimed artists like Peter Gabriel and Brian Eno. Despite his success, Oryema remained committed to promoting the music and culture of his homeland and was an advocate for peace in Uganda. He passed away in 2018 at the age of 65.
    Yinka Davies
    Yinka DaviesNigeria |1970| English
    Yinka Davies is a versatile Nigerian artist, known for her soulful singing, songwriting, and acting. She began her music career in the 1990s and has released several successful albums. Alongside her music, Yinka has also acted in various TV shows and movies, such as "Everyday People" and "Witches," and she's a judge on "Nigeria's Got Talent." She's recognized for her humanitarian efforts, especially her advocacy for breast cancer awareness and treatment. Yinka Davies continues to inspire through her music, acting, and philanthropic activities.
    Richard Bona
    Richard BonaCameroon |1967| French
    Richard Bona, born Bona Pinder Yayumayalolo in Cameroon, is a Grammy-award winning American musician and jazz bassist. Bona was born into a musical household, which allowed him to begin learning music at a young age, though he didn't start performing professionally until he got Europe. His earliest introduction to and strongest influence to jazz music was late Jaco Pastorius. In 1998, Bona was the Musical Director for Harry Belafonte's European Tour and the following year, he released his debut work.
    Mccoy Mrubata
    Mccoy MrubataSouth Africa |1959| English
    Mccoy Mrubata, is a renowned South African jazz saxophonist. He began his musical studies in the early 1970s and he focused on classical saxophone. Mccoy focused on solo works and released series of albums including "Face the music" which won the South African music award (SAMA) and he has won several awards afterwards. He has also composed music for films, television commercials and theatre as well as teaching music in South Africa. Mccoy has been praised for his lyrical solos and soulful compositions.
    Peter King
    Peter KingNigeria |1938| Yoruba
    Peter King Adeyoyin Osubu, commonly known as Peter King, is a renowned Nigerian musician and multi-instrumentalist, celebrated for his skill on the alto saxophone and his unique fusion of Afrobeat and jazz music. While Peter King achieved a cult following in Europe and America, he remained relatively unknown in Nigeria until the release of his record "A Soulful Peter King", which featured his trademark "Miliki Sound" and included popular classics such as "Sincerely", "We Belong Together" and "Just Because".