KATANGA JUNIOR

DOORS 9PM / MUSIC 9.30PM

Hailing from Tanzania and now proudly rooted in Mparntwe (Alice Springs), Katanga Junior is an electrifying artist who, in just three short years, has taken the Northern Territory music scene by storm. Seamlessly blending into the rich tapestry of Mparntwe’s musical landscape, Katanga Junior has forged a deep connection with the community, garnering an unwavering fan base through his exceptional talents. With a voice that resonates deep within the soul, a seamless flow that weaves tales of multilingual wonder, and an unwavering commitment to his craft, Katanga Junior’s artistry knows no bounds. A true genre alchemist, he fuses elements of hip-hop, reggae, ragga, and indie-folk, creating a sonic experience that defies conventions and resonates profoundly with his audience.

In 2021, Katanga made waves with his debut single “Mapenzi Business,” which later secured a remarkable place in the Top 10 song as voted by the public in the esteemed 2022 Territory Sounds Countdown. This achievement served as an initial testament to his rising influence in the Northern Territory’s music landscape. The release of his third EP, “Jangwa,” in late 2022 was another milestone, further establishing his reputation as a musical force to be reckoned with.

Fast forward to 2023, and Katanga Junior’s star continued to ascend. He emerged as a finalist in two prominent songwriting categories at the 2023 NT Music Awards, while his vocal mastery and live performances earned him the prestigious title of “Best Live Voice in the NT” at the 2023 National Live Music Awards, solidifying his reputation as an artist of extraordinary caliber. He also backed up his previous year’s placement in the Territory Sounds Countdown by taking out three spots in the 2023 Top 10, including top place for ‘Rejected Love’ a collaboration with Buffalo-born, Mparntwe-residing rapper Dan the Underdog. In 2023 the festival circuit beckoned, and Katanga answered the call, gracing the stages of renowned events like the Wide Open Space Festival, Desert Festival, Desert Harmony Festivaland Desert Song Festival in 2023.

As the world eagerly awaits the next chapter of his musical journey via his forthcoming collaborative album ‘Pamoja’, 2024 promises to be a landmark year for Katanga Junior. Junior and his Central Australian band will be supporting the album’s release via live shows in NT, SA and WA, including at the renowned and beloved Nannup Music Festival and the internationally-renowned WOMADelaide. Katanga Junior’s story is a living testament to the power of music to transcend borders, forge connections, and inspire change. With an unwavering commitment to his craft and an unquenchable thirst for innovation, the world eagerly awaits the continued rise of this remarkable artist.