Afro Jazz is a genre that combines African rhythms and melodies with the improvisational and harmonic elements of jazz. It emerged in the mid-20th century as African musicians incorporated influences from American jazz into their music. This fusion was inspired by the interaction between African and African-American musicians during World War II.
In the 1950s and 1960s, as African countries gained independence from colonial powers, Afro Jazz experienced a surge in popularity. Musicians drew inspiration from their cultural heritage, blending it with jazz improvisation, harmonies, and instrumentation. Prominent figures like Manu Dibango from Cameroon and South African musicians Hugh Masekela and Abdullah Ibrahim fused jazz with traditional African rhythms, creating a unique sound.
Over the years, Afro Jazz has continued to evolve and gain influence. Musicians have incorporated its elements into contemporary styles such as Afrobeat, Afro-pop, and world music.