Explore the Vibrant World of Michael Mwenso
Michael Mwenso is a vocalist bandleader, co-founder of Electric Root, Emmy Award-winning creator, curator and creative artist.
Mwenso’s unique lifelong geographical and spiritual journey has led him to possess a perspective unlike any other in this time.
His childhood was rooted in West Africa .
As a young child in London he faced a period of personal uncertainty, where he found solace in Black music and where the greatest artists of all time, like James Brown, became his mentors and guiding stars. Years later he started his Curatorial vision by creating the now legendary “late show” at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club which he developed, built and galvanized the Jazz community in London.
By his late twenties, Mwenso was brought to New York City by famed Music icon , Wynton Marsalis to be part of his programming team at Jazz at Lincoln Center and helm Dizzy’s Club.
The influence of his arrival profoundly impacted the music and arts scene of NYC.
He then built a community across the United States through his musical vehicle (Band) of love and expression, Mwenso and the Shakes.
He co founded Electric Root with Jono Gasparro in 2020 which partnered with institutions to decolonize music curriculums, reshape programming and create artist led, anti racist workshops.
In 2021 Michael pivoted to become a much-sought collaborator and cultural leader, creating programming, curating festivals, doing workshops and residencies at leading arts institutions, always moving the conversation forward. In 2022 he won an EMMY for the All Arts television documentary special “Michael Mwenso Honors George Floyd”.
He now continues to spend his energy on spreading the message of music to uplift, heal and empower individuals and communities across the world.
NPR Documentary
Life At Jazz Lincoln Center
Mwenso And The Shakes
No Regrets
Mwenso And The Shakes
Paste Studio Session
Latest Press
By Chris Farnsworth / Vermont’s Independent Voice SEVEN DAYS
Published February 9, 2022
I don’t drink coffee. There, I said it. Recoil in horror if you will. Wonder out loud how I can possibly form coherent sentences in the morning or make it through an eight-hour workday without those beans you all love so much.
On-Air Sessions
WNYC NEWS
Published February 12, 2022
Singer, bandleader, activist, and educator Michael Mwenso was born in Sierra Leone, and cut his teeth on the London jazz scene as a teenager. At the urging of Wynton Marsalis, he came to New York City, where he worked with Jazz at Lincoln Center and founded the band, Mwenso and the Shakes.
Michael Mwenso’s music destiny appeared after his mother was deported from their home in London to her native Africa.
There are charismatic people, and then there’s Michael Mwenso. The leader of Mwenso & the Shakes is full of energy, charm and most importantly, joy. That joy is ever-present when he’s telling stories about growing up in Ghana and Nigeria and spending four years trying to impress James Brown. You’ll also find that joy on his debut album, Emergence [The Process of Coming Into Being], which blends jazz, R&B and spoken word in a live album that feels like a Broadway show. These songs are anthemic — an explosion of ideas and sounds wrapped around familiar instrumentation.
Honors and Achievements
2022
Emmy Award for 'Michael Mwenso Honors George Floyd'
Recognized for his profound impact on the arts, Michael Mwenso received an Emmy for his poignant documentary special, showcasing his dedication to cultural dialogue and artistic excellence.
2020
Jazz Innovator Award
Acknowledged for his groundbreaking contributions to jazz, Mwenso was honored with the Jazz Innovator Award, celebrating his unique vision and influence in the music world.
2018
Cultural Leadership Award
Michael Mwenso was celebrated with the Cultural Leadership Award for his efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion within the arts community, highlighting his role as a transformative cultural leader.
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Email: michaelmwenso @ gmail.com