The Jam: Get to Know Muthaka, NJERI, and Daudi O.
Get to know the artists performing at the latest edition of The Jam.
Muthaka
Muthaka is a Contemporary Soul n’ B singer-songwriter and performer based in Nairobi, Kenya. Renowned for her emotive storytelling and vocal versatility, she crafts original music that blends the timeless essence of soul with the modern flair of R&B. Inspired by childhood memories of exploring her father’s CD collection—featuring icons like Dolly Parton, Whitney Houston, and Mariah Carey—Muthaka fell in love with music's ability to tell stories as vivid as books. Her sound reflects this rich tapestry of influences, drawing on the vocal strength of Whitney and Mariah, the intricate arrangements of Abba and Jacob Collier, and the heartfelt songwriting of Ed Sheeran and Mahalia. Muthaka’s style merges soulful melodies with contemporary R&B, occasionally infused with unexpected elements like reggae, creating a distinctive sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Looking ahead, she dreams of collaborations with artists like Mahalia, Sean Paul, and Tori Kelly while setting her sights on releasing a second album to deepen her connection with listeners and continue her artistic journey.
What's your earliest memory with music?
My earliest memory would probably be sitting in front of a DVD player and listening to my dad's CD collection of Abba, Dolly Parton, Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey - most of which still somehow play today. I remember first falling in love with the story telling that songs can have especially with Dolly Parton by reading the lyrics on the sleeves that would come with the CD, It was a very transformative thing to learn that you can sing songs that read like a book.
Who have been /are your Musical Influences?
First, everyone listed above. I take different inspiration from different artists for different aspects of my Musical journey. Vocally of course Whitney and Mariah, but also Leona Lewis, Tori Kelly and Adele . With song arrangements and vocal harmonies it would be Abba, Ariana Grande, Brandy and Jacob Collier . For Songwriting it would be Ed Sheeran, Dolly Parton, and Mahalia, and for Performance it would be SZA, H.E.R and Taylor Swift.
How would you describe your sound?
Contemporary Soul n' B. Mainly because of all the influences I have had from a lot of Soul Music when I was younger to what is now RNB Music. I will always go back to those old songs for inspiration and it's always much easier for me to write a Soulful song. I retreat to the RNB whenever I want to make it more interesting and a bit modern, and in my own style blending all the genres, sometimes mixed with some guilty pleasures like Reggae.
Who/ What is your dream Collab?
Whoever is still alive from the artists above! Other than those Sean Paul, Mahalia and Tori Kelly are always top picks for me.
What's next for you?
Hopefully, a Second Album.
NJERI
NJERI is a 23-year-old artist whose emotionally charged, experimental sound reflects her multicultural upbringing between Atlanta and Kenya. Influenced by Tracy Chapman, Lauryn Hill, Rihanna, and SZA, she creates music that resonates deeply, aiming to evoke genuine emotion rather than sadness. Her journey began with choir at Loreto Convent Valley Road, where music became a cornerstone of her identity, and has since evolved into a dynamic exploration of sound, showcased in tracks like D.R.U.G.S. and Sexy with Vallerie. Passionate and quietly reflective, NJERI dreams of collaborating with legends like Rihanna and Kanye West while championing Kenyan female artists such as Maandy, Karun, and Xenia Manasseh. With a new project and singles on the horizon, she is eager to connect with listeners worldwide and push the boundaries of her artistry.
What’s your earliest memory with music?
My earliest memory would probably be listening to Tracy Chapman CDs with my parents in the car. Earliest memory where I actively participated in singing would probably be choir in primary school. I went to Loreto Convent Valley Road and music was definitely part of the culture there, which I’m thankful for.
Who have been/are your musical influences?
Tracy Chapman, Lauryn Hill, Summer Walker, Sza, Doja Cat, Adele and Rihanna.
How would you describe your sound?
I would describe it as experimental. From D.R.U.G.S. to Sexy with Vallerie, I would say that I like to try new things. I opted out of boxing myself in after really enjoying stepping out of my comfort zone.
Who/what is your dream collab?
My dream international collab would be Rihanna and Kanye West. Not even dream collab worse but dream studio session. I think I’d learn a lot.
Kenyan collab would be a project with Kenyan female artists: Maandy, Maya Amolo, Zowie Kengocha, Karun, tg, Nyax, Xenia Manasseh amongst many others, the list goes on and on.
What’s next for you?
Short term, I have a project in the works. I’m super excited about it. Some singles as well. I’m really looking forward to putting them out into the world and to learn more.
Daudi O.
Daudi O. is a Nairobi-based creative entrepreneur and DJ celebrated for his ability to fuse music, fashion, and culture into a seamless expression of identity. Known for his carefully curated sets that blend Afro-mellow vibes with head-bopping beats, Daudi O. captures the dynamic energy of Nairobi’s vibrant youth scene. From his earliest musical memory in the Sunday school choir to discovering DJing as a natural extension of his passion for music and fashion, his journey reflects a deep connection to creativity and self-expression. Inspired by diverse sounds—from the nostalgic rhythms of genge to the evolving pan-African and Alte movements—Daudi O. weaves together mellow, Kenyan, and Pan-African influences, creating sets that resonate with a range of emotions and spark undeniable joy.
What motivated you to start DJing?
I think music has always been a big part of my life especially with how organic music and fashion align - you are what you wear, but I also believe you are what you listen to. So music transcended through my growth in the fashion space which led to me going for DJing classes (convinced further by a friend/ instructor in the school) and from there, I found myself behind the decks every moment I could.
What’s your earliest memory with music?
Earliest memory of music has to be performing in our Sunday School choir
Who have been/are your musical influences?
I would say it's been very diverse from genge music growing up, to Alte music. But I find myself always inclined to the pan african sound.
How would you describe your sets?
Mellow, Pan African, with a sprinkle of Kenyan sounds
What, in your opinion, makes a good set?
A well curated musical experience that involves a variety of emotions and pockets of joy, through the set
