Zawose, Hukwe

Born in 1938 in Tanzania, Hukwe Zawose taught himself to sing and to play the ilimba (thumb piano). He now composes and also plays izezs (traditional violins), filimbi (traditional flute), and nguga (ankle bells). He performs the traditional music of the Wagogo, his people, as well as political celebration songs and his own compositions. Within his country, his powerful voice raised him to legendary status. In 1996, his first CD available in the United States was released. He has also performed in Europe, Australia, and Asia.