Zuhura & Party

Zuhura & Party is a renowned musical group from Kenya, led by the talented Zuhura Swaleh. Born in Nairobi in 1947, Zuhura grew up in a predominantly Muslim area and was introduced to music through traditional ngoma dances and taarab music. After a series of life changes, she eventually formed Zuhura & Party in Mombasa, where she developed a unique chakacha-style taarab sound. This style, characterized by its fast-paced rhythms and socially conscious lyrics, became incredibly popular in the 1970s across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The group's music often addressed gender issues, making Zuhura a pioneering voice for women in the region. One of their notable albums is "Singetema," released in 1981, which featured songs like "Jino la Pembe" and "Hasira Zako." Zuhura & Party's influence extended beyond Kenya, contributing to the development of local genres such as mchiriku in Dar es Salaam.

Zuhura's journey with her group took her to international stages, including performances in Europe. Her music remains significant today, not only for its cultural impact but also for its role in promoting gender equity through her lyrics. The group's distinctive sound, often accompanied by instruments like the taishokoto, continues to inspire new generations of musicians. With releases like "Taarab ya Pwani," Zuhura & Party remains a celebrated name in the taarab music scene.