Kenyan Acts on the Nyege Nyege Festival Line Up

The 72 hour Nyege Nyege Festival returns to the source of the Nile in Jinja, from 1st – 3rd September 2017; bringing its unique fusion of international and local African sounds to the scenic Nile Discovery Beach. Nyege Nyege launched in 2015, and immediately established its reputation as one of the best new music festivals worldwide.

This year the festival line-up features several Kenyan artists. Firstly, Eddie Grey aka MAAD Jikoni whose experimental style is pushing the Kenyan jazz scene to new exciting heights.

Maad Jikoni

Suraj, who is making waves with his  Afro-electronic productions will also have a showcase.

Suraj

Expect the return of the Umojah Sound System with Dread Steppa, this time with the famed Funktion One sound system. The Kaya Collective will also perform as well as DJ Lasta.

DJ Lasta

Also, look out for Alai K’s Disco Vumbi. Finally, from The EA Wave collective Ukweli, Jinku and Nu Funk will bring that wavy vibe to the Nile.

EA Wave at Nyege Nyege festival 2016

The Kenyan line up is admittedly slim compared to last years’ festival which saw a record number of Kenyan acts grace the Nyege Nyege stage, and push the NU Nairobi sound across the border.

Binti Afrika at Nyege Nyege Festival 2016

Blinky Bill at Nyege Nyege Festival 2016

From the rest of the continent expect Cameroonian superstar Reniss, who has taken over the continent with her hit “La Sauce” alongside rapper Jovi. Ghanaian DJ and Producer Gafacci will also make his regional debut as Jowaa, representing the most cutting edge African electronic music. This year’s festival will also be the East African premier for the Cruel Boyz, Gqom pioneers from Durban, South Africa. Sisso Records from Tanzania will showcase the 170bpm Singeli music.

Gato preto Music Scenes from Nyege Nyege festival 2016

Some acts making their African debut include Lisbon’s Batida king Dj NK. Italian percussive performance artists Ninos Du Brasil. Germany’s Harmonious Thelonious. Ireland outernationalist Peter Power and dancefloor legend DJ Marcelle (NE). On the festivals first night, NTS Radio, the internet’s most influential platform for new and old music, will curate a special stage with British DJs Moxie, A.G., Anu and Skinny Macho.

Ibaaku from Nyege Nyege festival 2016

Many of the international acts will be in Kampala for a month ahead of the festival to collaborate with local musicians.

Grab your tickets for this year’s 3-day celebration full of good music and great vibes  here.

 

I'm a music & culture writer and photographer. Catch up with me on Instagram @muzikiyamtaa.