Benga Essentials

The sound of Benga emerged from the Luo ethnic group in mid-century Kenya. It's a fusion of traditional folk songs and modern instruments and styles such as soukous and Afro-Cuban rhythms, resulting in a joyous combination of fast, finger-picked guitar and syncopated, hip-swaying beats. Among the best exponents of the genre include D.O. Misiani, whose soft vocal harmonies mix with masterful fretwork and socially incisive lyrics. Meanwhile, the late Musa Juma drew on Congolese rhumba for jolting, danceable grooves.