Fatoumata DiawaraMali |1982| FrenchHer first introduction to music was her father's troupe where she performed as a dancer. Fatoumata Diawara, fondly called Fatou, would later be sent to Bamako to live with her aunt who was actress. While in Bamako, Fatou got a one-line role and that kicked started her acting career. Later, Fatou moved to France. There she learned to play guitar and began to write songs and explore music professionally. In 2011, she released her debut album, Fatou.
Guy Warren of GhanaGhana |1923| EnglishGuy Warren of Ghana, born in 1923 and passed away in 2008, was a renowned Ghanaian musician and cultural icon. He was popularly known as Kofi Ghanaba and was known for his exceptional skill in African drums and his unique blend of traditional African rhythms with Western jazz and blues. Warren was a pioneer of Afro-jazz music, and his innovative style inspired many musicians worldwide. He began his music career in Ghana with the Tempos dance band and later traveled to the United States where he played with jazz legends such as Charlie Parker, Max Roach, and Miles Davis. Apart from his music career, he was also an accomplished writer and visual artist. Warren's contribution to music and art remains celebrated.
Hassan HakmounMorocco |1963| ArabicHassan Hakmoun is a Moroccan musician based in New York, specializing in the distinctive Gnawa style of music. Born into a family of musicians, Hakmoun was immersed in the world of Gnawa from an early age. At just 4 years old, he began performing alongside revered Gnawa masters across Morocco. By the age of 14, he had already established his own musical ensemble and was a respected musician, participating in Gnawa lila ceremonies. Today, Hassan Hakmoun is widely recognized as the godfather of Gnawa music, a genre deeply rooted in Moroccan culture. In 1987, he made his U.S. debut at Lincoln Center and has since called New York City his home. His music continues to bridge cultures and captivate audiences around the world.
Ayub OgadaKenya |1956| SwahiliJob Seda, also known as Ayub Ogada was an iconic Kenyan singer, and famous for using Nyatiti, an eight-stringed traditional lyre. Ayub Ogada's choice in pursuing a career in music was influenced by his musical heritage--his parents and his tribe, Luo people of Kenya. He had his break when he became a co-founder of the African Heritage Band. In addition to music, Ayub was an actor. He acted in two Academic Award-winning movies. Sadly, he died on February 1, 2019 at age 63.
Chiwoniso MaraireZimbabwe |1976| ShonaChiwoniso Maraire was a talented Zimbabwean singer-songwriter, and mbira music exponent. She was the daughter of renowned Zimbabwean mbira master and teacher, Dumisani Maraire. At the age of 15, she was part of the hip-hop trio, A Peace of Ebony, which was among the first to fuse mbira with contemporary beats. Later, she joined The Storm, a band led by guitarist Andy Brown, who later became her husband. With her firm voice and Brown's guitar, the band toured the world and won several awards. Chiwoniso released her debut album, "Ancient Voices", in 1995, which received international acclaim. She went on to record more albums and was a core member of the multinational all-women band Women's Voice. Chiwoniso Maraire passed away in 2013.
Adama DraméBurkina Faso |1954| FrenchAdama Dramé, born into a family of musicians, is a master percussionist from Burkina-Faso. His music career began at the age of 12 while learning closely from his father and he became an expert playing the djembe. Subsequently, he joined his father's group which made him extend his musical range to an assortment of drums. Dramé combines traditional African rhythms with modern pop and rock influences and is considered to be one of the top African singers today.
Forward KwendaZimbabwe |1961| ShonaForward Kwenda is a renowned mbira musician from Zimbabwe. From a young age, Forward showed a keen interest in traditional dance and recitation of ancient poetry. He began to play ngoma (drums) and hosho (gourd rattles) for his mother's gombwe (rain-making spirit), which earned him recognition among his peers and community. His love for music continued to grow, and he became a master mbira player. He has performed across the globe and has collaborated with many musicians to promote Zimbabwean music and culture. Despite his success, he has remained committed to preserving and promoting Shona tradition through his music.
Bobby BensonNigeria |1922| YorubaBernard Olabinjo Benson, also known as "Bobby" Benson, was an influential Nigerian musician, entertainer, and comedian who left a lasting mark on the Nigerian music scene. He started off by playing standard big-band music before incorporating African themes into his music, resulting in the creation of his signature sound. One of his most famous hits, "Taxi Driver," became a timeless classic in West Africa and was covered by numerous other musicians. In addition to being a talented singer, he was also a gifted comedian and magician. He hosted a popular show on NTA, where he entertained audiences with his unique blend of stand-up comedy, music, and magic tricks. Benson's passing away was a great loss to the Nigerian music industry, but his legacy lives on.
