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THE RISE'N'SHINE BAND
Magic happens when we come together and play. We all feel very connected, because we share the experience of rehearsing and performing together. However, our family is much bigger than the musicians on stage! In the course of the years we invited young talents to be trained in rehearsals and to play with us. The Rise'n'Shine studio that is based in Mwanza is filled with many creative minds.
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CG
Singer, Bassist & Musical Director
CG is the heartbeat of Rise’n’Shine, a multi-talented bassist, songwriter, pianist, and the band’s Musical Director. With a rich history of playing for renowned artists like Jackie Akello (Sauti za Busara 2019) and others across international tours, CG brings a world of experience and passion to the band.
Before founding Rise’n’Shine alongside Bahati and Phillip, CG was dedicated to training young bands in Uganda, sharing his knowledge and inspiring the next generation of musicians. Now, he not only leads the musical vision of Rise’n’Shine but also channels his creativity into his personal brand as CG the artist, blending afro-beats with soulful melodies.
With CG’s vision, skill, and unwavering dedication, Rise’n’Shine continues to reach new heights, inspiring audiences with every performance!
Contact CG here: +49 163 901 0317
DR. BAHATI
Singer, Guitarist & Songwriter
Dr. Bahati is the vibrant energy and visionary leader of Rise’n’Shine. As the front singer and acoustic rhythm guitarist, she shapes the band’s distinctive sound with her heartfelt performances and powerful stage presence. A gifted songwriter, Bahati crafts lyrics in Kiswahili, English, and German, ensuring each song carries a meaningful message that resonates with audiences around the world.
Born and raised in Tanzania, Bahati spent over a decade as a gospel singer, touring Germany and captivating audiences with her soulful voice. Her deep love for Reggae and Afro Beats, coupled with their values of peace and respect, led her to create Rise’n’Shine—a band built on unity and shared purpose.
With her passion, creativity, and leadership, Bahati continues to inspire both the band and its growing community, making Rise’n’Shine a beacon of hope and harmony.
Contact Dr. Bahati here: +49 176 212 44094
BIBI FIRE
Singer
Bibi Fire is the glowing heart of Rise’n’Shine. With her crystal-clear voice and radiant presence, she truly shines on stage, captivating crowds with her energy, dazzling smile, and dynamic dance moves. Her performances embody the positive vibes and joyful spirit that Rise’n’Shine stands for as a team.
As the band’s former drummer, Bibi Fire holds the musical memory of Rise’n’Shine, knowing its journey and rhythms inside out. Her musical path began in church, where she sang lead in praise teams and inspired other women to embrace their love for music—all while gracefully managing the responsibilities of being a devoted mother.
With Bibi Fire lighting up the stage, Rise’n’Shine’s music becomes a celebration of life and harmony. She is not just a performer; she is an inspiration, a storyteller, and an irreplaceable part of the band’s heartbeat.
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MARIAM
Drummer
Mariam is the heartbeat of Rise’n’Shine—the engine that keeps the music alive and the silent yet highly effective captain steering the band’s rhythm. Usually quiet and observant, Mariam has a knack for speaking up at just the right moment, always hitting the mark with her insight.
On stage, she mesmerizes fans with her skillful drumming and impressive drumstick-twirling abilities, a true testament to her dedication and flair. A self-taught drummer since 2017, Mariam’s versatility spans genres, from Afro-Caribbean Fusion, Reggae, and RnB to Hip Hop, Afro Zouk, Sebene, and many more East-African and European styles.
Mariam’s talent and steady presence make her an indispensable part of Rise’n’Shine. With her at the drums, every beat resonates with passion and precision, driving the band forward in perfect harmony.
OBI THE MINISTER
Keys & Sound Engineer
Obadia, lovingly known as "the Minister," is the spiritual cornerstone of Rise’n’Shine. His deep humility and boundless passion for music make him an irreplaceable part of our family. With roots firmly planted in the church, Obadia’s musical journey began at the piano, where he played for services and led praise teams, honing his extraordinary talent and devotion.
In Rise’n’Shine, Obadia’s role extends beyond performance—during rehearsals, he is always ready to teach, guide, and uplift his fellow band members. His generous spirit and musical expertise inspire everyone around him.
With Obadia in the mix, every song is infused with depth, heart, and soul, reflecting the harmony and purpose that define Rise’n’Shine.
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PHILLIP ATEESA
Solo Guitar & Singer
Phillip Ateesa is the unforgettable melody of Rise’n’Shine—the one that lingers long after the music has stopped. As a Ugandan musician and music teacher, Phillip’s unique rhythms and style make his electric guitar work truly stand out. Since picking up the electric guitar in 2013, he has mastered not only its intricacies but also a variety of traditional Ugandan instruments, including drums like the Engalabi, Nankasa, and Empumpi, as well as the Adungu, a stringed instrument. His talent extends to Western instruments like the keyboard, acoustic guitar, bass, and drum set.
In Rise’n’Shine, Phillip’s melodies add a signature sound that captivates every audience. With dreams of building a career as a reggae and afro-jazz guitarist, Phillip’s passion and dedication shine through in every note. He’s not just a musician; he’s the soul of the band’s harmony and the spirit of its unforgettable tunes.
CHRISTIAN MGANA
Keys
Christian Mgana is the hidden genius and multi-talent of Rise’n’Shine. A master of virtually any instrument you can imagine, Christian’s versatility and skill are the backbone of the band’s musical excellence. Despite his immense talent, he humbly calls himself the “driver” of the band—a fitting metaphor for the way he navigates Rise’n’Shine through life’s ups, downs, and unexpected turns.
At the keys, Christian takes us on unforgettable journeys with his jazzy chords and surprising interludes, effortlessly adding depth and flair to every song. Growing up in Tanzania’s largest city, he has become a sound engineer and the choir leader of one of the country’s biggest congregations, making him a true leader both on and off the stage.
With his humor, humility, and boundless talent, Christian is an irreplaceable part of the Rise’n’Shine family. We are endlessly grateful for the magic he brings to our music and our journey together!
WINNIE WILLIAM NUNDU
Singer, Vocal Coach & Song Writer
Winnie William Nundu, known by her trademark Winniepraise, is the golden voice of Rise’n’Shine. A remarkable singer, vocal coach, and songwriter, Winnie brings warmth, depth, and soul to every performance. Her passion for music shines through in her captivating melodies and lyrics, which inspire not only the band but everyone fortunate enough to hear her.
Born on May 12, 1994, in Kigoma, Tanzania, Winnie’s musical journey began at just six years old. From singing in Sunday school and church choirs to performing with renowned artists both nationally and internationally, she has built a rich and vibrant career. As a journalist, she shares compelling stories, blending her perspectives on life in East Africa with her artistry.
Offstage, Winnie is a devoted mother who balances her roles with grace and strength. Her coaching and teaching methods are playful yet grounded, awakening innate musicality and fostering creativity through improvisation and exploration. She is a skilled facilitator for church and school workshops, offering a unique blend of cultural insight and musical expertise.
With Winniepraise, every song, lesson, and interaction is an opportunity to connect, grow, and create something extraordinary. Her unwavering dedication makes her an invaluable part of Rise’n’Shine’s journey and a gift to every community she touches.
SIMON MURO
Saxophonist
Simon Sax, born Simon Anta, is the “happiness factor” of Rise’n’Shine. Hailing from Dar es Salaam and the son of a pastor, Simon is a talented saxophonist whose melodies breathe life into every performance. Currently studying sound engineering at the National College of Arts in Bagamoyo, he has already played alongside some of the biggest names in gospel music, showcasing his incredible talent and versatility.
In the band, Simon is known for more than just his music—his voice impressions and profound jokes keep everyone laughing and uplift the group’s spirit, even during the busiest of times. With his joyful energy and vibrant personality, Simon brings warmth and light to every moment.
When Simon’s saxophone sings, it’s not just music—it’s an expression of pure soul and joy. We are blessed to have this extraordinary musician and bright spirit as part of the Rise’n’Shine family!
SAM
Bassist
Samuel Obeng, originally from Ghana and now based in Germany, is the steady rhythm and quiet strength behind Rise’n’Shine. A gifted bass player, Samuel became our great salvation during a challenging tour, stepping in effortlessly when the band had to reorganize. With Christian Mgana on drums, Samuel took over the bass, bringing fresh energy and solid groove to the stage.
Known for his calm demeanor and exceptional musical talent, Samuel is a key figure in the African gospel community in Germany, regularly playing modern gospel hits like those of Kirk Franklin in several churches. Based in Bonn, he’s not only a brilliant musician but also an invaluable addition to Rise’n’Shine, anchoring our sound with every note.
With Samuel on bass, the groove is always in safe hands, and his unshakable presence ensures that the band’s rhythm remains rock-solid, no matter the challenge.
