Jabali Afrika
| Jabali Afrika | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Kenya |
| Genres | Afro-Rock |
| Years active | 1990s–present |
| Website |
jabaliafrika |
| Members |
Justo Otongo Joseck Asikoye Dumisizwe Bhembe |
Jabali Afrika is an Afro-Rock jam band, formed by former members of the Kenyan National Theatre. The band currently consists of original members Justo Otongo and Joseck Asikoye, as well as Dumisizwe Bhembe, who joined the band "mid-stream."
Influences and Musical Style
Inspiration for Jabali Afrika's musical style includes Fundi Konde and George Mukabi, and the band incorporates customary instruments such as the Mbumbumbu bass drums, the sikuti drum and chivoti flute.
History
Jabali Afrika began in the early '90s, composed of dancers, singers, and drummers from the Kenyan National Theatre. The band chose its name from the Kiswahili word for "rock," jabali, and included Afrika as a reminder of its heritage. Initially performing traditional Kenyan songs and gained the attention of the Kenyan National Talent Search, leading to international tours.[1] The band would soon arrive in the United States and based itself in the Pittsburgh region. In 1996, the band gained attention by appearing in an episode of Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, performing the song "Tree, Tree, Tree".[2]
Discography
- Studio albums
- Journey (1996)
- Remember the Past (1999)
- Rootsganza (2003)
- Mayosi (2006)
- Rebellion 1963 To The Future (2012)