Leo Mkanyia is a Tanzanian guitarist, composer, and vocalist born in Dar es Salaam in 1981. Son of a renowned African jazz guitarist, Leo blends traditional Tanzanian music with Afro-jazz, blues, and global influences. With his Swahili Blues Band, he has performed across Africa and Europe, including festivals like Sauti za Busara, Bayimba, and the London African Music Festival. His music reflects Tanzanian realities - addressing migration, gender, politics, and love - while preserving classic muziki wa dansi with a modern twist. Albums like Dunia Hii, Jasho Langu, and Bangili showcase his signature fusion of Swahili rhythms, rumba, and blues. A passionate cultural preservationist, Leo leads the Muzika Azania project to revive endangered Tanzanian musical traditions using modern media. He has collaborated with African legends like Mulatu Astatke, Simon Winse, and Patrick Bebey, creating powerful bridges between heritage and innovation. His work ensures that Tanzania’s musical legacy remains vibrant and relevant for future generations.