Idd Aziz (KE)
Idd Aziz is an exceptionally talented artist from the breathtaking coastal region of Kenya. His distinctive sound blends Afro House with the rich musical heritage of Mijikenda and Kiswahili, setting him apart in the global electronic music scene.
Through his music, Idd strives to bring people together, transcend boundaries, and spread joy. His unique combination of African rhythms, modern production techniques, and soulful vocals creates a sound that feels both nostalgic and contemporary, appealing to a diverse audience of music lovers worldwide.
Idd's musical journey began at the age of 13, and by 15, he was already touring internationally and developing his artistic identity. He later moved to Trondheim, Norway, to broaden his musical horizons and explore new creative influences.
Throughout his career, Idd has experimented with a variety of genres, including jazz, Afro-fusion, and Afro House. His work in jazz and Afro-fusion has led to collaborations with German pianist Uli Lenz, Japanese jazz pianist Fumio Itabashi, Heing Siumaro, the Trondheim Orchestra, and African music legends such as Angélique Kidjo, Salif Keita, Alpha Blondy, and Youssou N'Dour. These experiences have played a significant role in shaping his musical identity and expanding his artistic vision.
Upon returning to Kenya in 2014, Idd immersed himself in the local music scene, quickly establishing himself as one of the country's most sought-after studio percussionists. He subsequently released the single Come Dada, celebrating Kiswahili, the language spoken throughout much of East Africa.
His growing reputation led to performances at prominent events, including the annual Lamu Art Festival, Wilder Festival, Pawa 254 Fest, and Koroga Festival, where he performed alongside Baba Maal. In 2017, he joined the Coke Studio Africa house band and travelled to Washington, D.C., with fellow Kenyan artists to participate in the Smithsonian Folklife Festival.
The Afro House Journey
In 2017, Idd decided to focus more deeply on Afro House, a genre first introduced to him by Max Doblhoff in 1998, when he performed at Sikiliza, a legendary club at Village Market in Nairobi. Their musical connection eventually led to the release of Africala, his first Afro House single together with Max Doblhoff.
This artistic evolution opened the door to a series of successful releases, including Kamili, Kilamu, Hinde, and Lua, further establishing his presence in the international electronic music scene.
Idd has since collaborated with renowned artists and DJs, including Black Coffee, Nitefreak, and Diplo. His distinctive sound has earned him recognition both in Europe and across Africa, while his music continues to reach an ever-growing global audience. He has built a substantial international following, with more than one million monthly listeners on Spotify.
A Voice for African Music
Idd Aziz has become a respected figure in the Afro House movement, recognised for his dedication to music, his deep connection to African culture, and his distinctive artistic expression. His work reflects a continuous process of evolution, driven by a commitment to creating music that uplifts, inspires, and celebrates Africa's rich cultural heritage.
Through relentless touring and ongoing studio projects, Idd continues to connect audiences across borders, offering listeners a musical experience that bridges tradition and modernity.
His music is a celebration of culture, creativity, and diversity — a testament to the power of African musical heritage to inspire and unite people around the world.