A major cultural hub in Kenya and East Africa, Mombasa's proximity to South Asia, Zanzibar, and Nairobi as well as its large shipping and maritime industries gives it a diverse mosaic of cultures. Music is a main feature of Mombasa's culture.
Music and nightlife
Taarab music, which originates from Zanzibar, has a prominent local presence. Styles of music native to Mombasa include the smooth and mellow Bango, fast-paced Chakacha and traditional Mwanzele. Benga and Ohangla are also very popular.
Musicians of note are Mombasa Roots, Safari Sounds, Them Mushrooms, Anwar Juma Bhalo and Princess Farida. Mombasa was also the home or base for former greats like Fundi Konde, renowned for his song "Tausi"; Fadhili Williams and Grand Charo, famous for the song "Malaika"; Sal Davies; Malika Mohammed of Vidonge hit song; Stara Butte; Juma Bhalo. Contemporary hiphop fusion artistes are Susumila, Majizee, Nyota Ndogo, Cannibal (musician), Sharama and Ukoo Flani super group which once could boast up to 40 rappers.
Recently, hip hop, reggae, soul, blues, salsa and (among the Indian community) bhangra have become popular, especially amongst the youth. Mombasa is mainly a tourism centre populated by hundreds of entertainment spots of all categories from night clubs, bars, hotels, fancy restaurants and many more. It has the most vibrant night life in Kenya catering for the mainly tourist population.
Sports
Currently Mombasa is not represented in the Kenyan Premier League. In 2011 it had Bandari F.C and Congo United F.C, which played at the Mbaraki Sports Grounds and Mombasa Municipal Stadium. Currently they are in the second tier Nationwide Super League with 4 other hometown clubs - Admiral F.C.; Magongo Rangers; Sparki Youth & Coast United. Derbies between Mombasa teams have become intriguing affairs recently. Another team, Coast Stars, was relegated several years ago from the league. The only
