He burst onto the international music scene in 1993 with the classic album Blufunk, the Nigerian-born innovator cites Jimi Hendrix, John Coltrane and Fela Kuti as his main influences.
Keziah’s fluid, acrobatic vocals and distinctive guitar-playing make for unique sound of afrobeat, blues, rock, pop - and of course Blufunk. The lineup of guitar, bass, and drums hints at a power trio with solos, but he plays rhythm almost exclusively and the extremely tight, kinetic rhythm section makes the music sound a bit like Tower of Power without horns. Keziah Jones has since released 6 albums and sold in the millions across the world. His unique style and success have made him the de-facto godfather of a new wave of popular african guitarist singer songwriter, and his influence can be heard with artists such as Asa, Nneka, Patrice, Ayo, Ben Uncle Soul and more…
Based between Lagos, Brooklyn, Paris and London, KJ’s artistry and innovation moves beyond the music itself, his paintings are regularly exposed in contemporary art galleries and graphic novels. In 2012, he partnered with a German based guitar manufacturer LAG and personally led the team that created, designed and built a guitar that would fit his unique percussive style. This guitar was subsequently launched and named Rugged 1. In this video, he engages us in the how and why of this beautiful piece of design and sound.
In 2012, the RATP, the French transport network in charge of Paris introduced a new policy allowing musicians to showcase their music in public metro station, the decision was highly influenced by KJ’s promotional stunt for the release of the Black Orpheus album as the superstar musician offered surprise acoustic concerts in metro station across the city. http://www.eubeafestival.com/events/ratp-destination-musique/
His 20 year career gracing prestigious stages and festivals across the globe, have also led him into educational initiatives focused on sharing music related techniques including songwriting, music as a business and building performance style.
Check out these tracks for more • BluFunk – 1993 • African SpaceCraft - 1995 • Liquid Sunshine - 1999 • Black Orpheus – 2003 • Nigerian Wood - 2008 • Captain Rugged - 2013
