- The sounds of Kenya are a rich tapestry of diverse musical traditions.
- With Kenyan artists hitting the global stages and expressing their creative prowess and lyricism, the future of Kenyan music is as bright as ever.
Image: Moses Mwangi
Kenyan music is diverse and encompasses many different styles and genres, so the sounds of Kenyan music can vary depending on what type of music you are listening to.
Here are some music genres that call Kenya home.
Ohangla
This type of music traces its origin to the Luo community of Kenya. This sound is characterized by its rhythmic beats, and traditional instruments such as drums, guitars, and keyboards.
The lyrics of Ohangla music typically tell stories about the Luo community, its culture, and its way of life.
Ohangla music has gained popularity beyond the Luo community, and today it is enjoyed by many Kenyans and East Africans.
Famous Ohangla musicians include Osogo Winyo, Musa Juma, and Tony Nyadundo.
Taarab
This type of music originates on the East African Coast.
From Kenya to Tanzania and Zanzibar, it is characterized by its signature keyboard sounds, progressive beat, and heavy reliance on wind instrument sounds.
The lyrics of Taarab songs are usually in Swahili and often deal with themes of love, loss, and social issues.
Taarab music is a unique and culturally rich art form that reflects the diversity and history of the Kenyan coast.
Notable names in Taarab music include Jahazi Modern Taarab, Mzee Yusuf, and Leyla Rashid.
Kenyan hip-hop/rap
Kenyan hip-hop is characterized by its use of African beats, rhyming lyrics, and social themes that often address issues facing the youth, such as poverty, unemployment, and social inequality.
Artists can sing in Sheng, Kiswahili, English, and even local dialects. Kenyan hip-hop music has been growing steadily over the years, with a vibrant scene that includes a mix of established and upcoming artists.
Among these creative artists are Khaligraph Jones, Nyashinski, Fena Gitu, Wangechi, Ranja Mistari, and Nate Speaks among other great names.
Mugithi
This sound originates from the Kikuyu community, it features an iconic guitar sound accompanied by progressive drum beats.
Mugithi music is known for its lively, upbeat rhythms and catchy melodies, and its lyrics often touch on themes such as love, social issues, and everyday life in Kenya.
Lyrics are usually sung in the Kikuyu language. Mugithi music has crossed borders beyond the Kikuyu community and is now enjoyed by many Kenyans and East Africans.
Famous Mugithi artists include JB Maina, Samidoh, John DeMathew, and Mike Rua.
In conclusion, the sounds of Kenya are a rich tapestry of diverse musical traditions, reflecting the country's complex history and cultural heritage.
With Kenyan artists hitting the global stages and expressing their creative prowess and lyricism, the future of Kenyan music is as bright as ever.