Kenya’s music scene continues to evolve with a fresh wave of talented artists making waves both locally and internationally. From Afro-pop and rap to genge and traditional fusions, these musicians are putting Kenya on the global map in 2024. Here’s a list of 20 Kenyan musicians you should know this year.
1. Sauti Sol
Undoubtedly Kenya’s most successful band, Sauti Sol has consistently delivered hits that blend Afro-pop, R&B, and contemporary African sounds. Known for tracks like Suzanna and Melanin, they remain a household name and are key ambassadors of Kenyan music globally.
2. Nyashinski
Nyashinski is a former member of the rap group Kleptomaniax, and he has successfully made a solo comeback in recent years. His tracks Malaika and Marathon Runner showcase his lyrical depth and ability to fuse different genres, from rap to soulful ballads.
3. Femi One
A leading female rapper in Kenya’s music scene, Femi One is known for her gritty bars and energetic delivery. Her hit single Utawezana featuring Mejja became a viral sensation, solidifying her place as one of the top acts in Kenyan hip-hop.
4. Otile Brown
Otile Brown is a smooth-voiced R&B singer known for his romantic ballads and soulful tracks. With hits like Dusuma and Chaguo La Moyo, he has established himself as a key figure in Kenya’s music scene, especially within the love song genre.
5. Nviiri the Storyteller
Nviiri, a member of Sol Generation, is a rising Afro-pop star known for his unique storytelling approach in songs. His hit Pombe Sigara and Niko Sawa have gained massive popularity, making him one of the most promising acts of 2024.
6. Bensoul
Bensoul is another artist signed under Sol Generation. Known for his soulful voice and mastery of the guitar, Bensoul’s blend of Afro-fusion and R&B has earned him a loyal fan base. His hit songs like Niombee and Lucy showcase his exceptional songwriting skills.
7. Mejja
Mejja, also known as Okonkwo, is a rapper who has dominated the gengetone scene with his humorous lyrics and catchy tunes. He rose to fame with songs like Siku Hizi Ni Kubad and Tabia za Wakenya, solidifying his place as a gengetone icon.
8. Boutross
Boutross is one of the pioneers of the new-wave sound known as shrap, a blend of Kenyan hip-hop and trap music. His innovative sound has made him popular among Kenya’s urban youth, with hits like Yea Yea Yea leading the way.
9. Wakadinali
This hip-hop group is known for their raw and socially conscious lyrics, offering a window into life in Nairobi’s Eastlands. Songs like Geri Inengi have garnered them a large following, making them a must-listen for any Kenyan hip-hop fan.
10. Ssaru
Ssaru is a rising star in Kenya’s gengetone scene, known for her fierce rapping style and ability to switch between Swahili and Sheng. Her bold lyrics and confident delivery have made her a standout female voice in a male-dominated genre.
11. Buruklyn Boyz
The Buruklyn Boyz are at the forefront of Kenya’s drill music scene. Their hard-hitting lyrics and gritty beats resonate with Nairobi’s urban youth, with tracks like Nairobi making waves in the Kenyan underground music scene.
12. Arrow Bwoy
Known for his unique Afro-dancehall sound, Arrow Bwoy has gained popularity with hits like Digi Digi and Jango Love. His fusion of African beats and dancehall rhythms continues to set him apart in the Kenyan music industry.
13. Bahati
Bahati transitioned from gospel to secular music, where he found even greater success. With popular tracks like Wanani and Adhiambo, Bahati has shown his versatility as both a vocalist and a performer.
14. Muthoni Drummer Queen (MDQ)
MDQ is an innovative artist who blends hip-hop with African rhythms and electronic beats. Known for tracks like Kenyan Message, she is also the founder of the annual Blankets & Wine festival, showcasing her commitment to advancing Kenyan music and culture.
15. Khaligraph Jones
One of Kenya’s top rappers, Khaligraph Jones has been a dominant force in African hip-hop. His aggressive style and powerful delivery have made him a continental star, with hits like Yego and Mazishi showcasing his lyrical prowess.
16. Nadia Mukami
Nadia Mukami is a fast-rising Afro-pop star known for her sweet vocals and hit songs like Radio Love and Si Rahisi. She has quickly established herself as one of Kenya’s most sought-after female artists.
17. Solomon Mkubwa
Solomon Mkubwa is a gospel musician whose music transcends borders. Known for his heartfelt and inspirational songs, like Mfalme wa Amani, he is highly regarded within Kenya’s gospel scene and beyond.
18. King Kaka
King Kaka, also known as Rabbit, is a socially conscious rapper who uses his music to address pressing issues in Kenya, from poverty to corruption. His song Wajinga Nyinyi is a politically charged anthem that has made a significant impact.
19. Ethic Entertainment
Ethic Entertainment is a gengetone group that took the Kenyan music scene by storm with their debut single Lamba Lolo. They are credited with popularizing gengetone, a genre that has since become a dominant force in the local music industry.
20. Victoria Kimani
Victoria Kimani is an Afro-pop sensation known for her sultry voice and glamorous style. Having made a name for herself both in Kenya and Nigeria, Kimani’s hits like Prokoto and China Love reflect her versatility and global appeal.
Kenya’s music scene is bursting with talent in 2024, and these 20 musicians are proof of that. From seasoned veterans like Sauti Sol and Khaligraph Jones to emerging stars like Ssaru and Nviiri, these artists are shaping the future of Kenyan music while staying true to their unique sound. Whether it’s Afro-pop, hip-hop, or gengetone, Kenyan musicians continue to make their mark on the global stage.
