The Safaricom Jazz Lounge which is the hallmark of a great course saw Dianne Reeves (USA), one of the world’s most accomplished Jazz singers on Thursday, October 18, 2018 grace the occasion this time around alongside other celebrated musicians including Double Cut (Italy), Peter Martin, Romera Lubambo, Reginald Veal, Kato Change (Kenya) and Terreon Gully.
The next lounge will be held at Hells Gate National Park in Naivasha where Reeves will yet again unleash her vocal prowess in the wilderness-themed show.One of Kenya’s freshest new jazz bands, AdHoc, will feature in the Naivasha show.
For over five years now, 3,000 children have benefited through the Ghetto Classics Outreach programme in Korogocho which focuses on 10 satellite areas around Nairobi, Kiambu and Mombasa.The programme has had a unique approach that uses music education to provide the youth with opportunities to better themselves and their communities.
Proceeds from all ticket sales will be donated to the Ghetto classics music programme, which has been the Safaricom Jazz beneficiary since 2014 and has so far received an estimated KES 60 million, funds that have benefited over 1,400 children from Nairobi and Mombasa.
Proceeds from the 2018/2019 Edition will see the Ghetto Classics Schools programme extend to Kisumu.
The Safaricom Jazz Lounge that went down on Thursday at Uhuru Gardens was one for the ages.From the decor and the international line-up of performances.
Headlined by five-time Grammy winner Diana Reeves, the gates opened at 6 PM making it a perfect way to wind down after a productive working day.
Soulful, distinguished and providing an escape into bliss, Reeves who is arguably the pre-eminent jazz vocalist in the world, took the attendees on an unforgettable journey with her music.
Holding her own and taking the crowd with her, she performed her greatest hits punctuated by an impressive vocal range that put her set over the top.
Kenyan guitarist Kato Change was a bit extra with his awesome set which he dedicated to all the beautiful African women and all striving to excel in Nairobi city.
All the way from Italy, was Double Cut serving good vibes with some smooth arrangements from the saxophone providing the much-needed food for the soul.
Prior to the main acts, David Muriithi AKA DJ D-Lite was on the decks playing a collection that set the mood.
The jazz event is known for side activities that provide an array of activities for all who attend.
Revellers got a chance to bag some goodies at the Masoko tent at the best prices.
There was a partner tent, that was resplendent in opulent furnishings and the platinum bar in the words of a fan was ‘pretty nifty.’
By equipping the youngsters with skills in live music performance, Ghetto Classics has had a major impact as a means of breaking the cycle of poverty that many of them are born into.