KITMI JAZZ BAND
AFROJAZZ/
AFROBEAT(LAGOS)
Kitmi Jazz Band is a dynamic and versatile five-piece musical ensemble based in Lagos, Nigeria, one of Africa’s most vibrant cultural and musical centres. Bringing together jazz, Afrobeat, funk and traditional Nigerian rhythms, the band has developed a distinctive sound that combines the sophistication of jazz with the infectious energy and rhythmic richness of contemporary African music.
For more than a decade, Kitmi Jazz Band has been captivating audiences with its soulful performances, exceptional musicianship and powerful live energy. The band’s musical approach is rooted in a deep appreciation of jazz while remaining open to the diverse sounds and traditions that have shaped Nigeria’s extraordinary musical landscape. Their performances move naturally between classic jazz standards, contemporary influences and original compositions, creating a repertoire that is both accessible and artistically distinctive.
At the heart of Kitmi Jazz Band’s sound is the dialogue between improvisation, groove and melody. The musicians bring individual character and instrumental expertise to the ensemble, creating a live experience that is spontaneous, energetic and engaging. Their combination of guitar, saxophone, trumpet, bass and drums allows the band to move comfortably between intimate, soulful passages and powerful rhythmic sections, making them adaptable to a wide range of concert and event settings.
The band’s debut album, Groove & Soul, represents an important expression of this musical identity. The album brings together the band’s passion for jazz, groove and soul while reflecting the rhythmic energy and cultural environment of Lagos. It showcases the musicians’ creativity and instrumental ability and provides a studio expression of the sound they bring to the stage. The Groove & Soul project is an important step in the band’s continuing development and their ambition to establish themselves as a leading force within Nigeria’s evolving jazz-fusion scene.
The Band
Kitmi Jazz Band is composed of five accomplished musicians:
Olukorede Solomon Omirinlewo – Guitar
Ireti Aina Oluwaseun (Raytee) – Saxophone
Ikechukwu Kingsley Elekwachi (Gruvman) – Bass
Meshach Olamide Aminu – Trumpet
Babatunde Alabi (Tunde Jimmy) – Drums
Together, they form a tightly connected ensemble in which rhythm, harmony and improvisation work hand in hand.
Nigerian Roots, International Perspective
Although firmly rooted in Lagos and Nigerian musical culture, Kitmi Jazz Band approaches its music with a broad international perspective. Their fusion of jazz with Afrobeat, funk and Nigerian rhythms creates a sound that can connect naturally with audiences beyond Nigeria while maintaining a strong sense of place and cultural identity.
The band’s musical philosophy is not simply about combining different genres, but about creating a space where African rhythmic traditions and contemporary jazz language can meet and evolve. This gives their music both a strong cultural foundation and the freedom to explore new musical directions.
Their vision is to become a leading Nigerian jazz ensemble recognised for innovative musical expression, electrifying performances and meaningful cultural influence on the international stage. Through concerts, recordings and collaborations, the band aims to inspire audiences, promote Nigerian musical heritage and build connections across cultures.
Live & Booking
Kitmi Jazz Band is suited to a wide range of international booking opportunities, including jazz and world-music festivals, concert halls, clubs, cultural programmes, open-air events and curated live-music series. Their combination of musical sophistication, groove and live energy makes them equally at home in an intimate club environment or on a festival stage.
With Groove & Soul as the foundation of their current artistic journey, Kitmi Jazz Band is ready to bring the sound of Lagos to audiences in Europe and internationally, offering a contemporary African jazz experience built on musicianship, rhythm, soul and cultural exchange.
Kitmi Jazz Band is available for festival, concert, club and cultural-event bookings in 2026 and beyond through Ajazco Records.
