ICYMI, Riyadh hosted its first-ever International Jazz Festival this weekend.
Jazz is a phenomenal and hugely influential genre, but women’s role in it often goes overlooked. The Riyadh International Jazz Festival, however, put women front and centre.
Among a list of world-class jazz musicians, these women shined bright at the buzzing event over the weekend.
If you missed the festival, or just want to re-visit the highlights, we’ve broken down the best artists that lit up the stage at this year’s Riyadh International Jazz Festival. Be sure to keep them on your radar!
Chaka Khan
‘Queen of Funk’ Chaka Khan raised the roof as she took over the headliner spot of the second day of the festival. Her powerful voice had everyone spellbound, and the audience could not get enough! We’re *obsessed*!
Fulana
Saudi synth-pop artist Fulana is blazing a trail in the music industry. She put on a hauntingly beautiful show that had fans (existing and new) captivated from the very start!
Yolanda Brown
Saxophonist YolanDa Brown quite literally took the power of jazz into her hands with a passionate and soulful performance.
Louluwa
Singer Louluwa brought a bit of bossa nova to Riyadh International Jazz Festival’s VIP lounge, treating guests to a truly top-notch performance.
Kokoroko
Kokoroko is an eight-piece mixed-genre musical group led by Sheila Maurice-Grey, known for their exciting fusion of jazz and Afrobeat. The group, also playing this year’s Coachella festival
Nourah Sings
Saudi vocalist and songwriter Nourah Sings brought some *feels* to the festival.
Looking for some new artist inspo? These Arab music artists are the ones to watch!