Exploring the Diversity of African Music in Azawi’s ‘SANKOFA'
Meet talented Ugandan singer and songwriter Azawi who has taken the world by storm. Her journey began as a dancer in the Kika Dance Troupe, but her love for music was cemented after attending dance festivals at the Ndere Cultural Centre. Azawi -real name Priscillar Zawedde- started writing songs for prominent artists in Uganda before pursuing her musical career. Her debut EP, Lo Fit, was a massive hit, generating over 6 million streams. Azawi's enchanting music and eclectic performances have earned her recognition through awards and nominations, including being selected as a YouTube Black Voices Artist Class of 2022. That year, Azawi also performed at her all-sold-out maiden concert in Kampala, Uganda and right now, Azawi has been nominated for the Best Newcomer in the 2023 Trace Awards.
But today you’re here to sample the freshest produce out of Azawi's creative orchard, so let me point you toward her genuinely amazing album “SANKOFA”.
With a remarkable duration of 48 minutes spread across 17 captivating tracks and featuring remarkable collaborations with acclaimed artists such as Sauti Sol, Konshens, Elijah Kitaka, Ben Soul, and Mike Kayihura, "SANKOFA" effortlessly embraces a kaleidoscope of variety and vibrancy. The album takes its name from the Akan language of Ghana, where "SANKOFA" embodies the essence of "going back and getting it" or "returning and fetching." This evocative concept urges us to delve into our past to attain a profound understanding of ourselves and our position in the world. It extends beyond the realm of individuals, encompassing entire communities and societies.
Azawi's music exudes an exuberance and lushness that is unparalleled, captivating not only your auditory senses but igniting a symphony of sensations. As your feet tap in sync with the rhythmic log drums and Afrobeat melodies, you'll find yourself mysteriously transported through the veils of time and space. In this ethereal realm, sounds acquire aromas, and chants leave a lingering taste on your tongue, infused with ancestral energy that fervently calls for remembrance.
Azawi's project seamlessly blends traditional elements of East African music with refreshing modern twists, introducing listeners to captivating sounds they may not have encountered before. The album gracefully incorporates the vibrant rhythms of South African 'Amapiano', the authenticity of Afropop, and the familiar allure of "Afrobeat". "SANKOFA" is a treasure trove of diverse influences, where analog instrumentation harmoniously coexists with cutting-edge electronic production. This artistic and social statement echoes a sense of Pan-Africanism, embracing a collective identity that transcends borders and time.
STAY IN TOUCH WITH AZAWI ON INSTAGRAM