Allen KwelaSouth Africa |1939| EnglishAllen 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.
Naima KaySouth Africa |1991| ZuluLungile Khumalo, known professionally as Naima Kay, is a celebrated Afro-Jazz vocalist from South Africa. Initially discovering her singing and songwriting abilities in her school choir, Lungile's love for jazz propelled her to grace local jazz festivals, captivating audiences with her soul-stirring vocals. Her debut album, Umsebenzi, released in 2013, garnered immense acclaim, culminating in her prestigious win of the South African Music Award (SAMA) for Best Newcomer in 2014. The eminent record producer Mdu Ngcobo bestowed upon her the name Naima Kay, signifying peace and serenity in Arabic. Naima Kay continues to enthrall listeners with her musical prowess, gracing esteemed national events like the Ugu Jazz Festival and the Durban Jazz Festival.
Chris ChameleonSouth Africa |1971| AfrikaansChris Chameleon, born Chris Mulder, is South African-born award-winning singer, composer, actor, writer, presenter, cattle farmer, environmentalist and South African band Boo!'s front man. In 1997, he founded Boo!, a band that rapidly gained popularity in South Africa and globally. After the band's success, Chris pursued a solo career, exploring various music styles and genres from acoustic ballads to experimental rock. He has released multiple albums as a solo artist, with the band and has collaborated with numerous musicians and artists throughout the years. Chris's music is an eclectic blend of rock, jazz, and African rhythms, and he is recognized for his remarkable vocal range and his ability to sing fluently in Afrikaans, English, and Xhosa.
WiyaalaGhana |1986| EnglishNoella Wiyaala, professionally known as Wiyaala, is a versatile Ghanaian artist, entrepreneur, and advocate celebrated for her music and impactful endeavors. Her performances are a captivating blend of West African folk traditions and Afro-pop, showcasing her dynamic talents. Her ascent to stardom began with a victory in the Vodafone Icons Reality Show in 2012 and gained international recognition when discovered by the BBC's Rita Ray in 2014. Wiyaala's global performances include an audience with Vice President Kamala Harris, and her 2014 FIFA World Cup song even charted on Billboard. Wiyaala has garnered numerous accolades, including Ghana Music Awards and BBC recognition. Beyond music, she passionately advocates against child marriage and actively supports various organizations in her pursuit of positive change.
Mose FanfanCongo |1945| FrenchMose Se Sengo, known affectionately as Fanfan, was a legendary Congolese rumba musician, guitarist, composer, and bandleader. His journey in shaping Congolese Soukous began as a teenage guitarist, and he later contributed his talents to bands such as the Jazz Barons and Orchestre Revolution. Under the mentorship of the late Congolese rumba maestro Franco Luambo Makiadi, Fanfan emerged on the music scene in 1968. He continued to leave his mark through his involvement with Lovy du Zaire and the formation of his band, Somo Somo, in the late 1970s. Despite his impactful contributions, his life was tragically cut short in 2019.
Moses Taiwa MolelekwaSouth Africa |1973| EnglishMoses Taiwa Molelekwa was a talented South African Jazz pianist. He began playing the piano at a young age, and quickly developed a unique style that blended traditional South African rhythms with jazz and other contemporary influences. Molelekwa's music was known for its intricate harmonies, rhythmic complexity, and melodic beauty. He released his first album, titled "Finding One's Self", in 1995, which was followed by several other successful albums. Throughout his career, Molelekwa received numerous awards and accolades, including the South African Music Award for Best Contemporary Jazz Album in 1998 and 2001. He was also a featured performer at the North Sea Jazz Festival and the Montreux Jazz Festival, among others. Tragically, Molelekwa died in 2001, at the age of 27.
