Uganda: Qwela Takes Jazz Gospel to Hotels

Uganda: Qwela Takes Jazz Gospel to Hotels

New Vision (Kampala)

23 October 2008
Posted to the web 24 October 2008

Tony Mushoborozi
Kampala

THERE is a new generation of artistes who are fast breaking away from the traditional definition of gospel music.

Take the Qwela Jazz Band, for instance, who perform every Friday at Emin Pasha Hotel in Nakasero.

This is something that was, until lately, unheard of. A gospel band performing in an A-class hotel!

The jazz show runs from 7:00pm to 10:00pm every Friday, and the youngsters do not disappoint. For the last two-and-a-half months, gospel jazz ardent lovers have had reason to dine out at Emin Pasha.

Earlier this year, the band performed alongside Kenyan sensation Wainaina at the same venue. After the show, the band signed a deal with the hotel.

Joseph Kahirimbanyi aka Joze, the band leader helped knit the eight-member band together. His dream started when he asked his friends to do a surprise show on his mother's 60th birthday.

The songs were all from the 60s and a few were his mum's teenage favourites. The guests were gleeful and clapping all through the show, which surprised Joze. And that was his turning point.

"After the show, people asked me where my friends and I performed. That is when I realised that I could form a band," Joze says.

Tanantana the group's most loved song was written by Joze. It oscillates between patriotism and praises to God for his blessing upon Uganda. It is the best song on the band's first album, Kidepo.