Sensual, Self-Aware and Soulful Kuiyu Takes Pride In Being A Multidimensional Artist

Kenyan singer Kuiyu is a multidimensional hyphenate with a flair for music, fashion and everything in between. Born and raised in Kiambu Kenya, Kuiyu has been singing since the tender age of 9 where he performed in church and school functions. The singer has consistently explored his love for music ever since. In 2012, he joined the prestigious Kenya Boys Choir where he was a member till 2015.

 Kuiyu’s adept music career has also seen him participate in a short stint with his former gospel music band ‘W3NZA’ with whom he recorded his first music album Kionjo - Love, Life & Praise. The Kionjo singer’s sound is largely unorthodox, eclectic and experimental. Ever since going solo in 2016, he has released several tracks such as Jaherana, Hukumu, and Butter among others. Kuiyu recently dropped his 2nd album IN BTWN which is a multi-genre project after a 2-year hiatus from music. IN BTWN features songs such as Whatchyo Needin,’ Dizzy, Gichagi and Reke Gwiire among others.

In early July, Kuiyu performed a unique live recording experience dubbed ‘I’s Watching U’ at the Baraza Media Lab in Riverside, Nairobi to showcase intriguing visual and performative characteristics of the IN BTWN album. We spoke to Kuiyu about his music, latest album, outstanding fashion sense and future aspirations.

Your latest album IN BTWN is a pop of genres. Tell us more about the creative process of making this piece.

The process took me about 2 years to juggle and complete. Working with 5 producers to bring out the different flavors that serve up theIN BTWN 10 course meal. I wanted a touch of the sounds I love; sounds I grew up hearing and sounds I’m great at! Starting out with melodies and hooks I would later find the words behind the messages I intended to vibrate and experiment in studio with my producers.

What stood out the most about the ‘I’s Watching U’ album recording that took place early July?

To see all my vibe tribe (in betweeners) in one space letting loose and getting lost in the groove in a way reminded me of my task on this creative journey. I want my music to open our perspectives as humans, to feel deeply and connect authentically with ourselves first and then with each other.

Do you have a specific favorite song from your latest collection?

That’s tough, oh my! My music hits different every day of the week depending on the mood and mind frame I’m in. 

How would you describe your sound?

Sweet, sensual, self-aware and soulful. A mesh of stories and feels delivered on playful rhythms and witty wordplay. I’m definitely inspired by Kapuka, Benga and zouk musical movements, they help me sonically showcase our connected musicality as Africans.

What caused you to take a hiatus from music?

Covid-19 forced me to pause, reflect and re-evaluate where I wanted to go next as an artist. I needed time off to ground myself and filter out the noises, really tap into my center and be intentional with my vibe, my energy and the frequency I transmute with all my creative gifts. I never really took a break from music it was more like a step back! A silent unfolding into my true authentic and liberated self

Apart from music, what else do you do?

I work with nonprofit organizations to craft and tell transformational stories around social issues, building communities for impact and social change. I run a communications consultancy outfit Maneno Matamu PR which also manages the digital presence of mid-sized hospitality and lifestyle brands

Having been in the music space since the age of 9, what were your musical influences? Is it a family passion?

It’s beginning to be a family thing. Since I have the tendency to influence the aspirations of those behind me. Growing up I listened to lots of pop radio artists like Joe, Meiway, Mercy Myra, Brenda Fassie, and Chaka Khan to mention a few.

Big stadiums or intimate gigs?

Having done both, I’m always guided by the need to connect with my audience. When I achieve that the stage size doesn’t matter or scare me.

What would you say were the lowest moments for your career as a musician?

 In 2015, my longtime band disbanded before we could release our heavily invested album. The experience destabilized my momentum. In the long run, this propelled me to pursue my solo career which has been eventful and exciting.

Your fashion sense is very grandiose, characterized with distinct Ankara Kimonos and cultural ornaments. Tell us more about your love for kimonos.

I enjoy wearing pieces that honor my values, boost my confidence while complimenting my body type. Kimonos are flowy garments that are in and of themselves accessories’, they easily go with most things. I enjoy the playful nature of a good kimono with intricate patterns and colors. In them I feel limitless, and even weightless. Of course, being tall and slender, I love a fit that complements my height giving me more body room.

Any plans to have a fashion line?

This year I put on my designer hat. My new passion collection is called LIQUID LEMN inspired by limitless living. It is built to fit unisex wearers, bold folks who enjoy style experiments that license them to flow like themselves. Our current mantra is “finding form” derived from the need to own one’s structure without labels and gender norms.

Are there any projects to watch out for?

My album launch event earlier in July also doubled up as a live recording affair. Look out for the performance videos from that experience. I’m back in studio with new collaborations, expect more singles. I am also working on my podcast which will be exploring in depth the ‘IN BETWEEN’ concept and themes, I will be speaking to some intriguing souls as we dissect our “gray” experiences as we navigate the peaks and valleys of our relationships and learnt mindsets.

What message do you have for your fans?

In Btwn is all about fostering a deeper sense of belonging.  Being with self. Finding the atlas of your heart through a million individual acts of care and attention.  Distinguishing where the hurt and pain is stemming from. Stopping to press the wounds at every turn to cross over to newness. Having a better sense of emotions. Leaning into the truth that happened individually in my family. Admit your truths quickly so to overcome. All photos are by Sogallo.

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