BIO

Kinobe has been performing internationally since the age of ten, captivating audiences with virtuoso performances of Ugandan roots music as well as original compositions, reflecting a wealth of African and world influences. A multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter, Kinobe leads his listeners into the soul of African music with traditional instruments, songs, and stories from his homeland.

As an instrument-maker and teacher of traditional African instruments, Kinobe understands musical creation inside and out. His solo shows feature the kora (African harp), kalimba, tama, and an array of traditional percussive instruments, all crafted and brought to life by his skilled hands.

In 2007, under the support of CulturesFrance, Kinobe made his first major tour to 18 countries around Africa and the Indian Ocean. He has given solo concerts and workshops on traditional instruments all over Europe. Now on his second North American tour, he is releasing two new CDs for 2011: Awamu N'emikwano / Together With Friends; and a solo release, Leaving the Song Behind.

Born in 1983 near Lake Victoria, Kinobe began playing music at the age of five, and five years later traveled to the Netherlands with a group of musicians for his first international performance. It was this trip that introduced him to the diversity of musical traditions throughout the world, opening his ears to new sounds, and launching a life-changing interest in world music. In the years that followed, Kinobe traveled the African continent, performing with such figures in African roots music as Toumani Diabate, Youssou N’dour, Salif Keita, Angelique Kidjo, Oliver Mtukudzi, Baaba Maal, Ismael Lo, and many others. He is a lifelong student, teacher, lover, and purveyor of the great diversity of African musical traditions.