Siti & The Band

The mystic Island of Zanzibar carries influences from ancient Arab, Persian, Indian and African cultures and traditions.

Over the last few years, promising musical projects have emerged from these territories.

Siti & The Band is probably one of the most significant examples among them.

The musicians met during their diploma studies at the Dhow Countries Music Academy. As they decided to work together, they determined to set an example for the new generation of East Africans by carrying on the cultural legacy of their renowned elders (Siti Binti Saad and Bi Kidude), fusing traditional Taarab instruments – Quanun, Oud and Violin – with western contemporary music: from Jazz to Funk, Reggae and beyond.

Their lead singer - Siti Amina had to struggle hard to be able to pursue her career as female musician, which now translates into a sparkling powerful performance of womanhood, breaking rules- and ground for African women to stand up for their dreams and against injustice.

The result is a unique live experience.

Their first album (“Fusing the Roots”) was released in January 2018 and got sweeping reviews. The project has been touring extensively in East Africa with the highlight being the Fela Kuti Memorial Festival in Nigeria. ACCESS Conference 2018 in Nairobi, IOMMA 2019 in La Reunion and Visa for Music 2019 in Morocco. The band is now ready for more, eager to share their culture with the world.

Cover Photo Credits @antoine.jonquiere