Hey music junkie,

I’m currently writing this from a bed in Malindi. In a local inn which one of my colleagues jokingly called Malindi backpackers.

More like Malindi backbenchers…

In the past 3 days I've been in 3 different locations. That is Nairobi, Kilifi and Malindi. And this is only the beginning.

Despite the early mornings, long days and tired evenings, I feel this sense of giddy excitement. To travel to different parts of the coast. And to be part of this one-of-a-kind adventure called Sailing Music Festival.

For the past 2 days we've been at Kivukoni School in Kilifi, which is literally any student’s dream come true. We've eaten with the staff, rehearsed with local musicians and even played percussions with the school director.

Yup, they're that cool.

And now we're preparing for day 1 of the festival happening at Saffron Garden in Malindi. A fancy hotel restaurant that's worth seeing in person. I cannot wait to see it myself!

On day 2, we'll get on a boat and sail in the famous Mida Creek. We'll explore Sudi Island, enjoy live musical vibes then cruise back to the mainland. Where we'll enjoy a DJ afterparty on Watamu's pristine beach.

And on day 3 aka Sunday we're back in Kilifi for the grand finale. Where Swahili jazz king Juma Tutu will perform with baddass drummer Amani Baya and Chosen Band from Kivukoni. And to crown the day, bango music by the legend Mzee Ngala.

In case you're wondering what bango is, it's a Kenyan music genre which blends rhumba, jazz, AfroLatin and Mijikenda music. Straight outta the coast. And we get to hear it live from the man who pioneered it more than 30 years ago!

But for now, our days are spent travelling, planning, meeting partners, creating content plus a million other things. While making time to catch sunsets, walk on the beach and count the night stars. Because Kilifi county is a dream!

Follow our crazy adventures here.

As we count down days to the main event, here are some opportunities for you to travel too!

OPPORTUNITIES OF THE MONTH

Let's Fly Away

• Apply for the £100 New Comma Fund microgrant with no strings attached - 31st August

• Join the Capetown art residency for all kinds of painters - 1st Septemberl

• Elevate your music career with the Amplify World grant for musicians - 1st September

• Advance your filmmaking skills at the female-only cinematography lab in South Africa- 15th September

• Join the NEWF Story Labs and learn how to make compelling films - 25th September

EVENTS OF THE WEEK

Live Techno at The Mist

After an incredible TCHNO Takeover last Friday at The Mist, this is a continuation of the massive vibes. Gebrüder Teichmann aka the Teichmann brothers from Berlin have spent the last week collaborating with Maasai Mbili from Kibera and DJ rpH. Together they've created a unique live performance for you that's possibly unlike anything you've seen.

And for this special show, African electronic artist Maganda Shakul from Uganda will join the experimental mix. If you're in Nairobi, this is definitely something you should see this Friday.

Sailing Music Festival

If you're at the coast or thinking of coming down (because Nairobi's very cold), karibu Kilifi! Join us either in Malindi on Friday night, Watamu on Saturday or at Mnarani Beach Club Kilifi on Sunday.

When was the last time you experienced authentic coastal music such as Swahili jazz by Juma Tutu and bango music by Mzee Ngala? Also expect nyatiti music from Kake Wakake, soulful sounds by Nyawîra Siren and irresitable beats by Amani Baya. And for the icing on the cake, sail in Mida Creek and Kilifi Creek while enjoying live Kenyan music!

I have a feeling this is going to be a weekend we're not going to forget anytime soon. The start of something new at the coast. I hope you'll be part of this magical moment with us.

Oh, and thank you for listening to my FIRST ever DJ Raha mix. I dropped it about a week ago and the feedback has been beautiful. (Re)listen here and leave a comment if you like it 🙂

Until next time,
Stay high on music
Furaha

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