The Safaricom Jazz Festival went down on Saturday at Uhuru Gardens and was graced by four of the best jazz artists including; Alune Wade, Kavita Shah, Mambo Tribe, and Limericks.
Talented Senegalese vocalist and bassist Wade was the leading act at the Safaricom Jazz Lounge.
During the course of his three-decade career, Wade has worked with renowned artistes such as Senegalese Ishmael Lo. His latest album, HAVANA – PARIS – DAKAR, is a collaboration with Cuban Pianist Harold Lopez-Nussa.
[caption caption="Artists performing at Safaricom Jazz"]
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Born in 1978 in Dakar, Senegal, Wade grew up surrounded by music. His father was a leader of a symphonic orchestra and he began playing at the young age of six.
At 13, the bass became Wade’s chosen instrument and his father’s encouragement joined his orchestra. One year later, he joined Ishmael Lo’s band, touring as his bassist all across the globe. In 2006, Wade released his debut solo album ‘Mbolo’ (which means unity in Wolof). His second album was dubbed ‘Ayo Nene’ and was released in 2010.
[caption caption="Kavita Shah performing"]
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Jazz singer and composer, New-York based Kavita Shah, was also part of the line-up alongside two Kenyan bands; Mambo Tribe and the Limericks that showcased the growth and talent in the Kenyan Jazz scene.
Proceeds from all ticket sales will be donated to the Ghetto Classics Music program based in Korogocho.
The music program has been supported by ticket earnings from the Safaricom International Jazz Festival since 2014.
Safaricom has so far handed over Sh37 Million to the program.
[caption caption="Alune Wade performing"]
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The funds went towards the purchase of musical instruments for the 1,200 children who are in the community program.
The first Safaricom International Festival event was held in February 2014 and was headlined by New York-based Cameroonian artist Richard Bona.
Here are more photos from the event:
