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Michael Kiwanuka performs in The Current studio

Michael Kiwanuka plays in The Current's studio.
Michael Kiwanuka plays in The Current's studio.MPR Photo / Nate Ryan
  Play Now [28:05]

by Jim McGuinn and Michael Kiwanuka

September 28, 2012

Michael Kiwanuka is not a household name — yet. If you haven't heard of him, consider this your final warning: ignore him at your own risk. The British soul musician was voted the winner of Sound of 2012, the BBC's annual award for the most promising new music talent.

His latest album, Home Again, was our CD of the Week in July. Reviewer Lindsay Kimball had this to say: "He is a 24-year-old with the voice and music of someone three times his age. When you hear his debut album, Home Again, Michael Kiwanuka — the UK native of Ugandan-born parents — could fool you into thinking that you were listening to a long-lost Bill Withers record."

While in town for a show at Fine Line Music Cafe, Kiwanuka stopped by The Current studio to perform a few songs and chat with Program Director Jim McGuinn.

Songs performed: "I'm Getting Ready," "Tell Me A Tale" and "Home Again."