And history was made as East Africas first all-women orchestra made their debut, while Zanzibar's legendary grandmother, Bi Kidude (right), at nearly 100 years old, was still one of the most popular performers.
West African musicians were also appreciated. This year Ba Cissoko with Seckou Kouyate powered the fort with their rock-infused kora playing.
Organisers of this weeks Music festival had their work cut out as there had been no power for more than two months. This has caused a lot of problems for the Tanzanian Island which relies heavily on tourism
No date has been given for the electricity's return. But Surinamese artist Bamba Nazar sang: "No power cut can shut down the people; no power cut can shut down ya light." [Photo by Peter Bennett and Rena Demaire; words by Frederica Boswell]
The lack of power is due to a faulty submarine cable connecting the island to the mainland. It has affected fuel prices and access to water because pumping is difficult. And the capital, Stone Town, is very dark at night.