Founded in 2019 through a British Council-funded residency curated by Aziza Ongala, the Zawose Queens unite Tanzanian musicians and electronic producers to create a vibrant fusion of traditional and contemporary electronic music.

At the heart of this dynamic duo are Pendo and Leah, talented members of the renowned Zawose family. Their eclectic and captivating performances showcase not only powerful vocals but also traditional instruments like the marimba and the Gogo female drum, the muheme. Before the residency, Pendo and Leah had never considered forming a duo, as they focused on preserving their family’s musical legacy. However, the support and encouragement they received empowered them to explore their own creative paths.

The Zawose Queens quickly captivated audiences with their distinctive sound. They recorded their debut album in late 2019, but the Covid-19 pandemic delayed its release after signing with Real World Records in 2021.

Since then, they have performed 17 shows across five countries, gracing notable stages at Glastonbury, WOMAD, and African Oye. Pendo and Leah continue to inspire audiences, bridging cultures and celebrating the unifying power of music. Their journey is a testament to the transformative nature of collaboration and the enduring strength of cultural heritage. As they look to the future, the Zawose Queens remain committed to sharing their unique stories through their music.