Sheby Kinanda Classic Band

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Sheby Kinanda Classic Band is a Tanzanian Taarab group from Zanzibar known for contemporary Taarab and live-band music. The group combines the storytelling and vocal traditions of Swahili coastal Taarab with modern arrangements, performing songs centered around relationships, everyday life and social themes. The band works with different vocalists and performers, including Kauthar Hassan and Zaituni Kilio, and has built a growing catalogue that includes songs such as “Akuogope Nani,” “Bifu Langu Haliishi,” “Umeyakanyaga,” “Sichambi Umbea,” “Tatizo Sio Kamdomo,” “Huu Mwaka” and “Kosa Langu Nini.”