“I’m excited about delivering a great show and speaking to each person who attends the event through my music.” These were the words of international Afro–pop, Jazz and Fusion music superstar, Salif Keita. The Mali native was speaking during a media briefing at the Bomas of Kenya, a few days before his 29th August 2015 performance at the Safaricom Jazz Lounge.
Safaricom Jazz Lounge is a series of events that lead up to the annual Safaricom International Jazz Festival. This will be the first performance at the Safaricom Jazz Lounge for Mr. Keita, who is affectionately referred to as the “Golden Voice of Africa”, probably due to his over 40 years’ experience in music. Nonetheless, Mr. Keita has previously been in the country on various occasions both for music performances as well as in his capacity as a global advocate for the rights of people living with Albinism.
According to Safaricom CEO, Bob Collymore, part of celebrating our local talent is giving them the opportunity to perform alongside international artistes such as Salif. James Gogo and the Gogosimo Band will be the lucky local act chosen this year.
All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Ghetto Classics music programme in Korogocho Slums. This is a Safaricom-supported programme which seeks to provide an opportunity for children from underprivileged backgrounds to explore their musical talents and use them as a ticket out of the low income neighborhood.