THE STANDARD
From left, Savara Mudigi, Patorankingand Bien Baraza during Choma Na Ngoma second edition on May 31, 2019 at the KICC. [Edward Kiplimo, Standard]
Taking inspiration from the Persian belly dance, the Coastal Swahili community created the sensual chakacha music sub-genre.
It is unique African folk music of the bass guitar, drums and percussions; well blended with poetic sensual vocals in a live act. Some of the percussive instruments incorporated in chakacha include the chapuo, the msondo drums, the marimba as well as wind ones like the siwa trumpet.
Mainly performed by women during cultural and social ceremonies such as weddings, the chakacha performance is usually accompanied by rhythmic group dance – where participants sometimes respond to the singer’s cues.