Riyadh International Jazz In Full Swing: Queen of Funk Chaka Khan, The Cat Empire And More

The festival is adding to the growing music scene in Saudi Arabia

Soul music fans in Riyadh are currently swinging and swaying to smooth beats as the inaugural Riyadh International Jazz Festival takes place in the Saudi capital.

Started on February 7 to February 9, at the Mayadeen Theatre in Diriyah, the festival’s lineup features internationally acclaimed artists, including the Queen of Funk herself – Chaka Khan, Australian jazz-funk sensation The Cat Empire, TrapHouseJazz trailblazer Masego, and Hiatus Kaiyote – Australian band specialising in neo soul music.

Promoting regional talent

The first of its kind, the music festival is adding to the changing face of the Saudi capital’s music scene. Regional talents are also playing at the festival, such as Jeddah-based synthpop artist Fulana, Bahraini band Majaz, and Garwasha – instrumental jazz fusion band, who’re known for combining popular music forms with the Arab music of their heritage.

The Music Commission of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia organised the festival, to further encourage the nation’s growing music scene.

Riyadh’s growing music scene

Commenting on the event, Paul Pacifico, CEO of the Saudi Music Commission, said: “The first Riyadh International Jazz Festival is a unique opportunity to host some of the world’s most renowned music artists alongside amazing Saudi talents. It is an important step in supporting the development of the fast-growing music sector locally, whilst also putting Riyadh on the map as an emerging centre of excellence in global music.”

Riyadh has recently witnessed a notable transformation in its music sector. The capital has been home to numerous festivals and concerts, from Gamers8 to MDLBeast Soundstorm.

Lead image courtesy of Instagram/@chakakhan