Kenyan singer Jaysoul Highpitch has made it clear that he is not leaving Meru for Nairobi, a decision that sets him apart from many celebrities who relocate to the capital once they gain national recognition. The 30-year-old artiste, best known for his Kimeru rendition of Despacito that went viral nearly a decade ago, says his choice to remain in Meru is deliberate and strategic.
Speaking during TV host Ken Rel Bis’ traditional wedding in Meru, where he was a guest performer, Jaysoul explained that being based outside Nairobi allows him to maintain a unique identity in the music industry.
“I have no plans of moving to Nairobi. I can only visit when I have projects there, but not as a permanent resident. Maybe I will revisit this decision in future when I become a bigger household name. The reason I decided to remain in Meru is to be unique. Many artistes are in Nairobi, so what makes Jaysoul different? The fact that I am based in Meru. Here I enjoy strong support and I am regarded as the top artiste. If other stars from Nairobi come to Meru, they usually contact me. That is good for my brand,” he said.
Jaysoul is currently signed under the Watanashati Classic Label and managed by Kayfar Watanashati. He continues to command a strong fanbase in Meru, where he is frequently booked for shows and collaborations with visiting artistes.
Beyond music, the Mapenzi hitmaker has also been involved in community projects. Recently, he partnered with Sauti Sol’s Bien Aime-Baraza to run a feeding programme for street children in Meru, an initiative he described as fulfilling.
“I like giving back to my community. Bien came to Meru, and we fed needy children together. It was fulfilling,” Jaysoul said.
While many artistes view Nairobi as the gateway to larger opportunities, Jaysoul believes his staying power lies in connecting with his roots and dominating his local market. For him, success is not just about visibility in the capital but about building influence and identity where he feels most at home.
With a career spanning more than a decade and growing recognition, Jaysoul’s decision to stay in Meru highlights the potential for artistes to thrive outside Nairobi while still shaping Kenya’s music scene.
