Three reggae outfits to headline Sauti za Busara festival

This move, according to the organisers, is designed to encourage music stakeholders to take a second look at the power of reggae music on the continent.

The bands will be led by musician and activist Rocky Dawuni of Ghana, Sami Dan & Zewd Band of Ethiopia, and Bob Maghrib of Morocco. These three outfits form part of 40 bands to perform at the esteemed festival.

The festival organisers embrace the message carried by reggae music namely of unity, peace, love as well as challenging the status quo. After poring over 600+ artist applications, Sauti za Busara’s decision to select three reggae artists signals a challenge for young musicians and music managers to invest in the country’s reggae music and expand their musical scope.

“These three reggae artists are undoubtedly the some of the best African reggae representatives on the continent,” says festival director Yusuf Mahmoud. “We’re confident many Tanzanians love reggae not only for its rhythms but also for its messages of hope to all those who struggle for justice and freedom.”

Bob Maghrib began his music in 2011 as a tribute to visionary Jamaican reggae artist Bob Marley. As a fusion band, the group melds Moroccan melodies with reggae beats to create unique rhythms linked to African roots.

Legendary Rocky Dawuni has shared various stages with famous musicians Stevie Wonder, Peter Gabriel, Bono, Jason Mraz, Janelle Monae, John Legend, and others. He was named one of Africa’s Top 10 Global stars by CNN and his sounds unite a pan-African range of generations and cultures, weaving in Swahili lyrics in songs such as ‘Nairobi Nakupenda’.

Sami Dan arrived on the music scene with a background in engineering and a youthful passion for music. Early experiences writing and performing songs in high school convinced him to follow a musical path. He formed Zewd Acoustic Band in 2014 and hasn’t looked back since. Songs like ‘Fikir Selam’ or ‘Love, Peace’ moves fans with its smooth grooves and message of peace and love above all else.

Sauti za Busara, mentioned by CNN as one of 7 top African music festivals, will take place in Stone Town, Zanzibar from 9 – 12 February at the Old Fort and Forodhani Gardens.