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.
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.
Femi KutiNigeria |1962| EnglishOlufela Olufemi Anikulakpo Kuti, professionally known as Femi Kuti, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, saxophonist, and activist. Growing up with his father, he took an interest in music and learned to play the saxophone at the age of 15 as a member of Fela Kuti's band known as Egypt 80. In 1986, Femi started his musical group known as The Positive Force and had his first musical break after the release of his debut album titled, "No Cause For Alarm."
Sipho GumedeSouth Africa |1952| EnglishSipho Gumede was a prominent South African jazz bass guitarist, born in 1949 in Cato Manor, Durban After beginning his career as a session musician in the 1970s, Gumede went on to establish himself as a successful solo artist and bandleader in the 1980s, releasing several acclaimed albums that fused traditional South African rhythms with jazz and other contemporary styles. Throughout his career, Gumede was a passionate social and political activist who used his music to draw attention to important issues such as apartheid and poverty. He collaborated with many other musicians and played a key role in the development of the South African jazz scene, earning numerous awards and accolades along the way. He passed away in 2004.
Getatchew MekuryaEthiopia |1935| AmharicGetatchew Mekurya was an iconic Ethiopian jazz saxophonist and cultural icon born in 1935 in Addis Ababa. He became famous as a member of the Ethiopian Police Orchestra and is renowned for his unique and soulful tenor saxophone sound. Mekurya collaborated with several international musicians, including The Ex, John Zorn, and Coldplay, and his music has influenced many musicians globally. His legacy lives on as one of Ethiopia's greatest cultural ambassadors. Mekurya passed away on April 4, 2016.
OsunladeUnited States |1969| EnglishOsunlade, a legendary figure in the house music scene, taught himself multiple instruments by his teenage years before moving to Los Angeles to produce for other artists in the late 80s. However, he grew disenchanted with the industry's toxicity and took a break to embark on a spiritual journey that led him to found his label, Yoruba Records. With 20 albums and numerous singles to his name, he remains one of the most prolific artists in the game and a revered DJ.
