Tunisian-born jazz artist, Dhafer Youssef is the perfect example of when a jazz artist mixes music from their homeland to create something otherworldly. I was quickly enthralled with this artist when I heard his song, Herbie’s Dance. He has said the “radio was the most important school” for him. He was listening to jazz and fell in love with the genre and moved to Europe to pursue his career. Dhafer Youssef plays the oud instrument and vocals. He has played with the best of the best in both jazz and other music genres. His music is a mix of World fusion, Ethno jazz, new age, or what is called Jazztronica. He loves the music of India and Nordic music and incorporates that into his compositions.

Youssef is one of the ambassadors for Music Traveler whose members include Billy Joel, Hans Zimmer, Sean Lennon, and others. He made his debut in 1999 with the album Malak and quickly followed it up with his sophomore album, Electric Sufi which featured bassist, Doug Wimbish, and drummer, Will Calhoun of the legendary rock band, Living Colour. He has traveled the world and has played all the jazz festivals. He just released his latest album, Streets of Minarets with an impressive list of featured artists such as jazz legend, Herbie Hancock, Marcus Miller, and more. Check out the song Ondes of Chakras with its Middle Eastern rhythms and sounds. When this talented artist comes to your town you must see him live, you won’t regret it. Support independent music and musicians worldwide. Happy listening!