“You Never Learn” is a concoction of feeling. Written over the period of a couple years, Zowie admits the hurdles she faced whilst putting the project together, often losing sight of what she wanted to communicate in favour of catering to other people’s desires. Nonetheless, time and discernment proved her closest friends, as it soon became clear that she desired a project that showcased her talent and reflected her reality; in essence, a body of work that she could call her own.
Wild experimentation tempered by a steady, sure-bet inclination seems to be his guiding force, a humble gamble that has paid off time and time again. In case anyone doubted it, ‘From Uganda with Love’ has set MAUIMØON apart as a flag bearer for East Africa’s burgeoning RnB Alt scene.
INSHA has been a beautiful moment for these Nairobi artists to take time and reimagine our history, as well as to relevantly allow younger generations access to our cultures and demark time in a way that is pertinent to them.
Directly translating to “my child” from the Eastern-Ugandan dialect Dhopadola, Nyathi Par An beckons listeners to embrace introspection to reconcile their inner child's needs.
Still beloved and already legendary, this comeback is not merely a nostalgic trip but rather the beginning of yet another iconic cultural shift by a group that has honed its skill and seen enough stories to tell.
Eritrean/Canadian artist Kibra impresses with strong effortless vocals that perfectly peak through this song’s mix. Never once losing our attention or focus as the song progresses, Kibra’s voice expertly weaves in and out of the instrumental, delivering her message with calm confidence.
Uganda’s Bero's latest track “Colors” is a song that instantly fills you with joy. From its groovy percussive patterns, to its earworm of a chorus, we’re warmly welcomed into Bero’s brilliantly lit up world of love.
In the last few years, Caleb has established himself as an RnB prodigy. His musical style is reminiscent of some of the 2010’s greatest international RnB and hip hop stars. His innovative production choices and simple, repetitive lyrics that clearly define his feelings and musings put him in the excellent position of capturing his audience's attention from the moment they press play. “All To My Own”, is an instant bop that had us grooving from minute one. No doubt Caleb has found his groove and we’re excited to be witnessing this young RnB marvel grow.
Buruklyn Boyz’ debut album has been long anticipated by hip hop fans. The charismatic duo are the de facto leaders of the Nairobi drill scene, a fact cemented by critical acclaim within Nairobi and beyond the Kenyan borders.
In this sombre yet hopeful track, mau from nowhere tells the tale of a young man finding his way in a time of extreme fluctuation.
Following the success of their standout single “Good-Life”, Somali artist and multifaceted creative IDMAN (they/them/she/her) is back with an infectious, dancefloor banger. As house music makes a sudden comeback into mainstream airwaves, IDMAN’s latest single “Look At What I’m Doing To You” is a timely, trend-setting release.
Njeri’s debut album is finally here, and it’s safe to say that it is truly a “drug”.
Supadrum’s third release under their Artist Development Program (ADP) is here. The program features ‘Win’jan’ (‘Hear me out’), an EP by Kenyan-based, Ugandan, singer-songwriter Apio Moro.
Phinoshey takes on this abstract and complicated question and shares some thoughts on it. Like a philosopher, the artist ends up giving sentiments that are cyclic and contradictory.
‘Mi Na We’ teaches us that a new attachment need not be the subject of a fading bubblegum song, that even the small fun facts of life, like a crush, can be given serious music delivery.
Namugga writes of the experiences she has witnessed and been affected by with courage, strength and a palpable pain relayed in bluesy, soulful melodies.
With her first single of the year, HURU proves that the only thing she’s guilty of is being irresistibly cool.
Nostalgic, grungy, fun…. these are some of the words that might dawn on you when hearing Tetu Shani’s much awaited 1st studio album which he launched in style last year in November.
This is a set that will inspire you, if not through the message then the excellence with which it was delivered. Because of the lyrical nature, it’s the kind of set you want to pay attention to and not relegate to background sound. Music lovers will appreciate the characteristic nostalgic nod, the vocal prowess and sharp writing. Young people will, as we say, love to see one of us winning. All will experience Njoki in her element.
