Sauti za Busara: A symphony of diversity | The Citizen

Tuesday, October 17, 2023

The Sauti za Busara festival is a celebration of African music and culture, held annually in the historic Stone Town of Zanzibar.

For over two decades, the festival has brought together artists from all over the continent, showcasing a diverse range of musical styles and traditions.

The 21st edition of Sauti za Busara, scheduled for February 2024, promises to be an unforgettable event. The line-up features a stellar cast of renowned and emerging musicians from across Africa and the diaspora, representing a wide spectrum of genres, including Afrobeat, jazz, reggae, folk, and traditional music.

One of the highlights of the festival is sure to be Mádé Kuti, the son of legendary Afrobeat pioneer Femi Kuti. Mádé has inherited his father’s musical talent and passion, and he has quickly become one of the most exciting new voices in the Afrobeat scene.

His music is a powerful blend of tradition and modernity, and his live shows are electrifying.

Another artist to watch is Zoë Modiga, a rising star on the South African music scene. Modiga is a gifted singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. Her music is a unique blend of traditional Zulu melodies and contemporary pop influences. She is known for her powerful vocals, soulful lyrics, and energetic live performances.

The Brother Moves On is a South African band that has been making waves with their innovative blend of Afrobeat, rock, and jazz.

The band’s music is both politically charged and spiritually uplifting, and their live shows are known for their high energy and positive vibes.

In addition to these international stars, the Sauti za Busara festival will also feature a number of talented Tanzanian artists, including Siti & The Band, Wakazi, Warrior from the East, Africulture, Lwendo Afrika, Brain Boy, and Mubba.

The Sauti za Busara festival is more than just a music festival. It is also a platform for cultural exchange and understanding. The festival attracts visitors from all over the world, and it provides an opportunity for people to learn about and appreciate the rich diversity of African cultures.

The theme for the 2024 Sauti za Busara festival is “Moving Diversity.” This theme reflects the festival’s commitment to showcasing a diverse range of musical styles and cultures. It also speaks to the power of music to bring people together and to create a more inclusive and equitable world.

The Sauti za Busara festival is a truly unique event, and it is a must-attend for any fan of African music. With its stellar line-up and its commitment to diversity, the 21st edition of the festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of African culture.

The Sauti za Busara festival is more than just a showcase of the best of African music. It is also a catalyst for social change. The festival’s commitment to diversity is evident in its programming, which features a significant number of female artists and emerging talents.

The festival also provides a platform for artists to raise their voices on important social issues. For example, the Brother Moves On is known for their politically charged music, which addresses issues such as poverty, inequality, and social injustice.

The Sauti za Busara festival also has a number of educational and community outreach programs. These programs aim to promote music education and to support the development of the local music industry.

The Sauti za Busara festival is a vital institution in the African music scene. It is a platform for artists to showcase their talents, to connect with audiences, and to make a difference in the world.