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‘Women have always been sidelined. So we’re radical’: the Zawose Queens go from Tanzania to Glastonbury
The multi-talented musicians were held back in their home country where even certain instruments were off limits – but they’re ready to take centre stage at Worthy Farm
The remarkable singing that fills the room has a long history in the Zawose family, with Pendo’s father and Leah’s grandfather Hukwe being a pioneer of Gogo music, which is specific to the tribe they belong to. Maisha is rooted in traditional singing and instrumentation, featuring chizeze fiddle along with muheme and ngoma drums but it’s also embellished with more contemporary electronic touches. The Zawose Queens – who will tour with a full band – also have a special show at Womad festival, where Hukwe used to perform as a trailblazing, yet rare, Tanzanian artist on the bill.
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