 Alune Wade, the talented Senegalese vocalist, and bassist was the leading act at the Safaricom Jazz Lounge held on Saturday 4th November 2017 at Uhuru Gardens.
 Wade has worked with renowned artists such as Senegalese Ishmael Lo. His latest album, HAVANA – PARIS – DAKAR, is a collaboration with Cuban Pianist Harold Lopez-Nussa.
Born in 1978 in Dakar, Senegal, Wade grew up surrounded by music. His father was a leader of a symphonic orchestra, and he began playing at the young age of six.
At 13, the bass became Wade’s chosen instrument and with his father’s encouragement joined his orchestra. One year later, he joined Ishmael Lo’s band, touring as his bassist all across the globe. In 2006, Wade released his debut solo album ‘Mbolo’ (which means unity in Wolof). His second album was dubbed ‘Ayo Nene’ and was released in 2010.
Jazz singer and composer, New-York based Kavita Shah was also part of the line-up alongside 2 Kenyan bands; Mambo Tribe and the Limericks that showcased the growth and talent in the Kenyan Jazz scene.
Proceeds from all ticket sales will be donated to the Ghetto Classics Music program based in Korogocho. The music program has been supported by ticket earnings from the Safaricom International Jazz Festival since 2014.
Safaricom has so far handed over Sh. 37 million to the program. The funds went towards purchase of music instruments for the 1,200 children who are in the community program.
The first Safaricom International Festival event was held in February 2014 and was headlined by New-York based Cameroonian artist Richard Bona.
