John Muchira: Githaa kia Ngai Hitmaker on music made from Kirinyaga

Ever Jovial

Among all 5 counties making up Central Province in Kenya, Kirinyaga County has for years, had the lowest number of recorded Kikuyu Musicians. However John Muchira, of GithaaKia Ngai, fame is among the indigenous Kirinyaga musicians, reversing that trend by singing and being good at it. 

Early Beginnings

Born in Kiandae Village in Gichugu, the 33 year old musician loved singing from a young age, and had to be forcibly removed from Kiandae Catholic church choir, as he was eager to sing with them. At times the choirmaster allowed a young Muchira to sing with them on noticing his musical passion. By class 6, he was a percussionist for Githage Primary School band. “I played the shaker,” recalls Muchira and loved listening to songs by Elizabeth Nyambere and Joseph Kamaru. 

High School

After primary school, he joined Kangaru High School in Embu and Muchira’s talent blossomed. He led as soloist, folk and traditional Kikuyu songs in music festivals, and took up instructor roles when their teacher was unavailable. In Form 3, he was made senior choirmaster, and one poignant moment from then, was quickly assembling a choir to sing for former President Moi, who was passing by. He missed two Geography lessons as they hastily rehearsed. “Then, Moi used to dish out money if made happy,” Muchira remembers laughing. 

Unfortunately, His zeal for music and arts was not shared by his parents, as they saw no hope of making a living from it in future. In fact Muchira had a backup plan to be an electrician after high school as he loved staring at electrical transformers. “My parents wanted me to struggle with difficult sciences so I could end up in a “respectable career” like a doctor or engineer.” Muchira told Kikuyu Musicians. 

On his final year at high school he got a C Minus grade. Muchira’s father gave up on him as he deemed the grade too low to get him into any respectable tertiary college then. He had to fend for himself and that included, picking coffee as a casual laborer for a year.

Joining Kayamba Africa

That time he survived on musical tutoring jobs he got from his home catholic church as an assistant choir trainer. “I’d now train people who sang when I was a young boy,” he remembers. Time to time Muchira was sponsored to attend musical training seminars conducted by “Mitarakwa Ya Lebanon” composer where he mastered sheet music. 

Coming to Nairobi, he joined a music centre led by a Kenyatta University lecturer Mr Ogola and got further training at Kenya Conservatoire of Music. He ended up with a Diploma in Music and in 2000, joined the famed Kayamba Africa. There he got experience under training of Mr. Keya. “Kayamba had not splintered then,” recalls Muchira. 

Through the 1500shs Muchira got from Kayamba Africa, singing at ceremonies like weddings, he could pay rent at Mathare North. Since he had sufficient musical experience, he formed the 20 member, Tarumbeta Africa Choir. Through it, they rearranged traditional Kikuyu songs and sang them at ceremonies as he continued training church choirs. One of the first paychecks they got as members was at a wedding in Kariobangi South, where as six members earned 500shs each in 2003. 

Birthing Githaa Kia Ngai

That confirmed to him that they were not badly off as Tarumbeta Africa. As songs they sang they didn’t have copyrights, he opted to compose his own. That birthed his debut album Githaa Kia Ngai (God’s Timing) which took years to mature until recording in 2009. At Dede records where the album was cut, it took 6 months to complete it as he recorded when money was available. It cost him around Shs180,000 plus shooting the accompanying videos. 

The title song ‘Githaa Kia Ngai’ he wrote it as a personal encouragement due to hardships he went through with his friends. “It’s a song urging people to trust GOD,” said Muchira. He recalls he got the message first then the melody later, though it took months to fine tune the song. The album has other songs addressing handling of marriage conflicts and importance of communication. “See if the family is sorted, the society will be okay,” advises Muchira. 

Composition Motivation and Advice

His motivation to those who listen to his music is to give them hope and urge them, to thank GOD for life, regardless of what they go through. Currently (2014) Muchira is working on follow up album as the first one approach nearly 3000 copies in sales. His advice to budding gospel musicians is being resilient and have right motives when in gospel music, even if they don’t get instant breakthrough.

Singing Githaa

“If the album flops, don’t stop singing if GOD, gave You the message,” he adds. Still he adds the album needs to be produced in a good studio and be of quality. Muchira also advises budding musicians to allow songs they compose to be critiqued by established luminaries. “Ben Githae does that to my songs and even music tutors to ensure they are fine,” said Muchira. He also cautions on fame and money getting into ones head, after being successful as that leads to a quick downfall. 

Notable Performances

Some notable performances he has done were at Kariobangi PCEA Church, Kimunye ACK Church at Martha Karua’s thanksgiving, and PCEA Memorial Church Thika at a wedding. Still he yearns to minister in US or UK where his mentors like Ben Githae, Loise Kim and Charles Kingori have gone. His aim in coming years, is to be releasing 2 albums yearly not only in Kikuyu language but Swahili and English. 

Besides music, Muchira has been a Master of Ceremonies (MC) since 2006 which he ventured on noticing gaps existing in that sector, after attending many occasions. He also believes Kirinyaga musicians can sing as well as others from Central Kenya. His immediate aim is to release one album in the near future, purely sang in Kirinyaga dialect. 

To get to where he is, Muchira is grateful to DJ Macjoj who put his videos on Youtube, and presenters Jeff Kuria of Inooro FM, Evans Wanyoike of Kameme FM and KK of Coro FM who got his music on air. In addition he is grateful to his encouraging mum and his wife and skeptical Dad gradually appreciating his music. 

Reach Muchira on kikuyumusicians@gmail.com 

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Martin wa Janet: On musical journey anchored in perseverance amidst turmoil

Tough beginnings in life don’t necessarily mean the ends will be painful. That rings true for one Martin wa Janet 30 years, whose journey to the pinnacle of Kikuyu Gospel Music has been rife with challenges, self doubt, mocking and faith amidst hopelessness. All that has shaped Martin to fully depend and trust in GOD, at all times regardless of the pain through seasons of life.

Early Life

Known for inspiring hits like Nituririkanitwo and Nitumwinyihire with Obedi, life for this turbaned man (mkorino) began in Kihiu Mwiri, Muranga County. He attended PK primary and secondary school up to Form 3 where personal problems forced him to drop out. Hazy about what to do in life, he left Muranga for Kiambu and was housed by Mama Jane. He joined a local akorino church Africa Mission Holy Ghost headed by Bishop Ezra Njoroge where he played drums with vigour. 

In his teenage years, Martin, spent almost 4 years jobless in Kiambu but got a job in a hotel in downtown Nairobi around 2003, where he earned Sh100 daily. The hotel job proved a challenge for his slight frame, and one day the excessive heat in the kitchen caused him to vomit. The hotel owner reprimanded him and Martin begged him to give him one more month. He became a waiter but waiting hassles proved tiring he worked less than 3 months and quit. He also lost his beloved mom that year.

Trials as Matatu Conductor

A man who had a matatu noticed Martin jobless and loitering Kiambu town and offered him a job as a conductor for Kiambu town route 100, a job he did until 2008. As a conductor he desired to sing and after work composed songs but lacked recording money. “My heart was in music,” recalls Martin. He was influenced by fellow akorino gospel musicians like Sammy Nene and Hezeh Ndungu.

As a conductor, wearing the akorino white turban he experienced lots of trials. He recalls a time while hanging on Matatu door his turban accidentally fell off, and a passenger asked him sarcastically asked him what was that, that fell off his head. Also being a born again Christian donning a turban, traffic police loathed him, as he never due to his faith gave bribes. One police got so irritated at Martin’s refusal to bribe that he pulled a turban from his head and threw it to the vehicle. “It was hurtful and being a born again conductor I encountered many problems,” recalls Martin smiling. 

Working with Dennis Mutara

As fate would have it, as a conductor he met famous gospel artiste Dennis Mutara who sold oranges near a supermarket in Kiambu in 2006 while dabbling in his budding musical career. Then in 2008 Mutara released ‘Ngai angikiuga Niukugia’ album which he distributed around Central Kenya with a public address system. Martin joined his distribution entourage and they would go to crusades and open air market to sell them. Martin with funding from Mama Jane recorded his 7 track debut album ‘Ngai niwenjire Githima’ which was played intermittently on radio. 

Still to get the master CD from recording studio took him 3 months to raise sh15, 000. He followed it up with ‘Mwarie ciugo cia Ngai’ and ‘Ngai Tutumire Mundu’ both received limited airplay and acceptance. In 2009 he recorded ‘Mwathani Tuonerie haria tugutheremera.’ 

Breakthrough to Mainstream

Through his albums he got invited to lead akorino ‘kigooco live’ praise in 2010 every Sunday 5am to 6am at Inooro FM at Muturi wa Muiru’s show Kimuri Kia Inooro. For two years He pounded the akorino drums for an hour and sing. Eventually he got invited by Evangelist Lucy wa Ngunjiri to lead praise in crusades by her Beyond Boundaries Ministries. With 6 albums to date ^th album Jehovah ni Muthamaki both played prominently in Kikuyu FM radio stations. 

two songs that brought him prominence are Nituririkanitwo off his latest album and a collaboration with Obedi ‘Nitumwinyihirie’ off the 4

Challenges in Music

To get the recognition he has today Martin admits it’s been hard and he questioned his musical ability and God’s will in his life in the song (Ngai Niwe Niwanduire Mwariria) album 4. He recalls going to major events and selling only two CDs and getting arrested by the city council while hawking his music on a small radio. Potential customers also made false promises to buy his music. One moment that left him shattered, was when he accompanied Mutara to Nanyuki. Martin carried 300CDs for the event and by day 3 had sold 5 only for Sh500. Broke and worse off than he came, Mutara bailed him out by paying for his accommodation and food as his CDs were selling. 

Disappointed, on the last day Martin stood on stage and announced “I want to know if it’s my music you hate or don’t have money,” he decided to sell them at half price of Sh50 to get fare. Travelling back to Kiambu from Nanyuki he felt disappointed but realized maybe GOD’s time had not come. “If GOD has to lift you up, you will be tested by fire so that you are full of revelation,” observes Martin.

Besides lack of money for recording, Martin says getting his music recognized was hard. Having realized there are hundreds of thousands of Kikuyu musicians he knew for his music to reach masses, GOD would have to intervene. “If you are unknown musician you get ignored at events but work hard on your craft and leave the rest to GOD to uplift you,” says Martin. 

First Radio Airplay

Getting airplay in Kikuyu Radio stations wasn’t easy and he savors the moment in 2008 when his song ‘Niwe wenjire Githima’ got played first time on air at Kameme FM. “I felt reborn, reinvigorated and thanked GOD for it,” said Martin. According to Martin one can spend lots of money on recording but what matters is GOD’s favor and prayers. “You can write a song it gets lots of airplay but if GOD doesn’t open the ears of listeners to love your music, it won’t be accepted or bought,” he said. 

Composing Process

When composing Martin reads the Bible for revelation and connects the message to everyday life people go through. It takes him a day or over a month to perfect one song depending on subject matter he focuses on. For the Nitumwinyihirie with Obedi he wrote the chorus, and Obedi wrote most verses, a process that took 6 months to complete the collaborated album. The tune according to Martin comes naturally as he gets the lyrics. Besides the Bible he values listening to sermons as they provide him with songwriting ideas. To produce 1 album costs him around Sh100, 000 with Video shooting included.

Advice to Budding Musicians

His advice to budding gospel artistes is to go into it if one is sure it’s the call of GOD so incase an album flops you soldier on. Otherwise an artiste driven to gospel music for money gets disappointed if his first album flops. He also advises one not to enter music because of a wave. Personally Martin has observed people who sold a cow to record because they saw a neighbor record and be successful. He observes such end selling the CD”s to family or close friends and go back to the village broke and disillusioned. Though piracy has hit him he estimates to have sold almost 100, 000 of his albums VCDs included. 

Notable Shows

Martin has sung in notable shows for Kameme FM thanksgiving at Kirigiti stadium Kiambu, Inooro FM road shows and at book launch in KICC attended by Kalonzo Musyoka. But for a visa denial he was to perform in California accompanying Evangelist Lucy Wa Ngunjiri. The father of one says the key to being lifted up by GOD is by singing from revelation to give hope to the listeners and humility before GOD.

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Kikuyu Music most underrated hit songs and sleeper hits

Ritho Ria Tha

When Kikuyu songs are released and receive airplay, there are those that are instant hits but others lag behind in popularity. For every ‘mabataro’, ‘mwigerekanio’ ‘ahiurania’ song there are three others equally good to be classified as sleeper hits. These songs are unknown largely due to the singer not being a household name like Githae, Musaimo or ND Githuka. We profile some of the songs and their writers below. Some don't have Youtube videos but can be found at Simba Centre River Road, Nairobi.

Ritho Ria Tha: This is guitar driven pop song by the relatively unknown Peter Muiruri with a dominant, vibrant rhythm riff that adds passion to the song. The song is an anthem for those dubbed in Kenya as ‘’safaras’’ or hasslers in informal sector like mkokoteni (rickshaw) pullers or shoe shiners. In it Muiruri acknowledges if God doesn’t intervene in his efforts he won’t be blessed and be rich enough to one day buy a house in Buru Buru Estate.

Andua Aria: A great groovy gospel song by another unknown Jane Mumenya. This song has a catchy bass line and lead rhythm guitar very well produced. Its message is about people who walk and wait on God never grow faint or weary. It’s an uplifting song that uplifts downtrodden spirits and lifts one up.

Gikuu kia Nugu: A gospel song by unknown Sovinga wa Bibiana an underground artist in River Road Nairobi. He collaborates on this hit with Muigai wa Njoroge. Like any Sovinga’s song this requires keen listening to understand its cryptic wisdom for living message. At a snapshot the song theme centers on the saying that when death is near for a monkey all trees are slippery.

Megutha: A song by family counselor and Pastor JJ Gitahi off his album ‘Kinyaga Mbere.’ In the song Pastor JJ Gitahi sings about the love of GOD that compelled him to follow Christ without resisting (megutha). Part of its message is drawn from Matthew 8:20 of foxes have holes. Its simple yet profound and played with strong lingala influence.

Andu Marekanire: This is a song by Ndindiko wa Waithaka of the Githingithia comedy fame. This is an apology and asking for forgiveness song by Ndindiko. In it Ndindiko apologizes to former girlfriends he had promised to marry and anyone he wronged. He acknowledges his earlier years naivety as the reasons he committed all those wrongs.

Mwihodotoro: An original song by the King of Mugithi Mike Rua. This is a relatively unknown song but is actually quite catchy. In a snippet of the song Rua thanks the person who first gave him a guitar for free when he could not afford it. He chronicles his early musical beginnings and in chorus urges a guy to stop complaining and eat vegetables called managu in kikuyu and sleep. The song is worth a listen if only for its combative vocals and great rhythm guitar playing.

Wikore: A gospel and wisdom for living song by Muigai wa Njoroge. This is anthem for the downtrodden struggling to make ends meet. Drawing on his own poverty past Muigai urges listeners to trust God in their sufferings as one day they will be exalted and be rich. The song has some nice vocal harmonies, keyboards and a background guitar riff it’s mournful but makes for a beautiful listen.

Tiga Niwe: One of the best sleeper kikuyu gospel hit song this 2013 by Beatrice Wangui aka Jordan. Once You listen to its message, You will understand why it’s a divine tearjerker. Its production is exquisite and the message by Wangui just acknowledges God goodness and faithfulness. In it Wangui sings if it were not for GOD she would not have been born again. It’s off her new album Kiambiriria.

Hau noho: A gospel song by Mirugi Dishon of Matiribu fame off Mirugi’s new album Matiribu. In the keyboard driven song, Mirugi urges Christians to be patient and wait on GOD. It draws on Biblical stories of Hannah and Peninah.

Korwo Ngai: A song by Wakabura Joseph. He chronicles his difficult beginnings in life the pain and suffering he went through to get to the pinnacle of Kikuyu Gospel. He urges the listeners to not quit when GOD is molding them to eventual greatness.

Githaa: A song by John Muchira a wedding MC from Kirinyaga County. The song is well produced and encourages listeners to wait for GOD’s perfect timing only. He acknowledges GOD is never late and is always on time.

Iremithia: A gospel song by an unknown Helen Wagio. In the song she prays GOD to remove obstacles hindering her from accomplishing her lifelong goals. It’s an uplifting anthem that lifts ones spirit to look to GOD as their source.

Gachomo Foreman: A song by Njuguna wa Lucy produced by Studio Sawa. This is wisdom for living song about a Gachomo character who worked as a building foreman. He used to swindle the company he worked for and steal money from builders working under him. Gachomo had such a big ego that he tied his trouser in high waist. Unfortunately luck run out he was caught fired became so broke that today he operates a beat up puppet near Shooters Githurai and receives coins from well-wishers and passersby incidentally he hated coins when he was a foreman.

These are not the only songs we consider sleeper hits. There are other sleeper hits from unknown Kikuyu artistes. If you know a sleeper hit from an unknown musician comment below this story or interact with us on our social media pages below.

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DK Karanja: ‘Mukunyururia’ singer shares his passion for God in Music

Daniel Kamau Karanja popular in Kikuyu Gospel, as DK Karanja is known for songs about everyday situations people go through and God’s purpose in them. The songs soft, prayerful melodic deliveries by Karanja is exactly what he asked God for, when he knew he was called to gospel music.

Growing Up

Though he released his first album in 2007, as a young boy born in Nyathuna, Kiambu and growing up in Narok, Karanja loved singing and also hoped to be a preacher. His mother, quarreled him for his love of hitting anything metallic like sufurias, milking buckets and kettles to create melodies. After 1992 tribal clashes forced them to relocate Kiambu from Narok he began to sing. But it’s after, he got born again in 2000 he sensed he was called to gospel music. His prayer to GOD was to sing uniquely and in a way that would make HIM be honored by listeners.

Early Struggles and Influences

He got a job as a matatu driver and saved money aiming to record one day. Money was hard to come and getting shillings 20,000 to record was beyond him. He joined a merry go round scheme where they saved money and got paid in turns Sh6000 after 30 days. In that time he listened to songs of other musicians and correct mistakes he viewed existed. His aim was always to sing from Godly conviction and will not for fame or money. “There is a way GOD requires us to worship HIM, not all songs we sing to him please HIM,” Karanja told Kikuyu Musicians.

Then he admired music by ND Githuka, late Anastasia Karanja, Milkah Muthoni, Julia Lucy, Elizabeth Nyambere and Njenga wa Cucu. “You can sense a touch of GOD in their music it’s not something they were dabbling in,” observes Karanja. He admired their songs that challenged people to live right with GOD. Up to when he released his first album, Karanja learned lessons on waiting on GOD. “A child can’t be born and eat Githeri tomorrow there is a need for growth,” said Karanja. For him GOD “delays” are vital to ensure we are not conceited after getting quick blessings that can lead us to self destruction. “Motivation shouldn’t be about money in gospel music,” he said.

Recording Debut Album & Discouragements

When he was ready to record, he had Sh6000 but the producer agreed to record him after promising to later pay the rest. His aim for the album was to convey his musical thoughts without interference by the producer. He released his debut album Jesu Nyita na Guoko in 2007. The album was initially not well received due to lack of radio airplay. “Acceptance for music in the media is at times hard,” Karanja observes. He took his album to Kikuyu radio stations around 10 times without any airplay. He even got a painful verbal barb, from a radio presenter who called his songs too mournful for radio. Another told him they had deleted them from their database.

Nonetheless, Karanja soldiered on without taking any hurtful statements personally. “Today I see the presenter though he is ashamed I don’t have hard feelings,” he said. The saving grace came through Skiza tunes by Safaricom once Karanja got his music there, it became popular. Later, the media picked his songs for airplay. “Skiza popularized my songs,” he said. Through that he advises budding musicians to never give up and be sure if GOD called them, the gift in them will flourish in due time. He also urges them to not take seriously anyone who belittles their GOD given musical gift. “So long as GOD who called You, hasn’t told You he can’t help You, why give up,” Karanja asks.

He followed his debut album with Ndakwambararia na Ngugoce album in 2009 which proved popular as well as his third album Nii Ningwitheria. His latest album is Mukunyururia whose title song has proved to be a spiritual anthem for those in tough times and getting mocked. Its message is from the story of the mocking Hannah endured from Peninah due to barrenness in the Bible. “At times you require an enemy to get You out of complacency and passivity and know what you lack,” said Karanja.

Composing Style & Piracy

When composing Karanja observes situations (good or bad) people go through and GOD’s purpose in them. According to him humanity suffers from common problems, in lack one may lack clothes another food. From such he gets a message first and then a melody follows. The Bible and Rhema word helps him have a revelation of how to contextualize GOD’s solution in the song for the listeners.

Though piracy has hit him, he has managed to sell 0.7 million songs and albums. “GOD has favoured me,” said Karanja. Piracy, Karanja says it won’t hinder him from delivering GOD’s message to people in songs. “A mole can’t stop a farmer from planting but those who feed their children by stealing are cursed with them,” said Karanja. He sees piracy as a blessing in disguise as GOD’s message reaches more people though he loathes it.

Motivation in Gospel Music

From observing today’s gospel music scene, Karanja is sad some people are in it for selfish motives like greed for money and fame than glorifying GOD. “Be in it according to GOD’s will only, the love of money is dangerous and makes people kill,” he said. Though open to ministering internationally, Karanja would shun invitations however lucrative whose motives are not GOD centered. “I don’t sing to please people but if GOD is honored people know HIM,” Karanja said. He recalls a person who told him his music wouldn’t sell since it’s not too modern or danceable but it never bothers him.

“There has to be a clear difference between gospel and worldly music,” Karanja said as GOD looks at the heart not the movements. These days unlike before, he is inundated with invites to an extent he can’t keep up with them, but is grateful to GOD for there were times they lacked. He markets his music in crusades and churches. He also appreciates the role stations like Inooro, Coro and Kameme FMs have had in making known his music. “They even call to ask if we got new music,” he said.

Challenges and Handling Them

Challenges, Karanja says shouldn’t faze us, as they are common to all, but leave us loving GOD more not shunning him. “Problems mould you so that tomorrow you are not prideful,” said Karanja. He has been in events where people have told him he can’t sing and refused a chance to. Nevertheless music is rewarding as his main source of livelihood and educates his children. Through music he has begun businesses like construction of buildings, hiring out public address systems and shooting videos.

Hope for the Future

In future he aims to expand his business to create employment in his Stardan video and music production company. His music is available in Simba Centre river road. He encourages musicians to invest in other sectors as it not guaranteed money from music will always flow. He urges people to know that GOD thinks good of them. “Better the problems of today with promise of a blessed tomorrow,” Karanja said. Of his 4 albums, Karanja’s favorite is the debut, as its all where his musical journey begun. “If we repent and follow GOD, HE will bring us to our vision,” said Karanja. Karanja’s contacts are +254 725 592 168.

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Ngaruiya Junior: from a rebellious drug addict to King of Kigooco (praise)

In recent years, 30 year old, Ngaruiya Junior has established himself as Kikuyu Gospel music’s go to praise leader earning him the nickname King of Kigooco. He has revived traditional Kikuyu gospel praise songs by putting instruments on them and re-establishing their mainstream popularity. So popular are the songs, they have eclipsed his original compositions. His new album is Jehova Nitwaguthaitha will be launched at Dominion Chapel Ministries, Kiserian September 15^th 2013.

Early Life

Today in any event Ngaruiya leads praise; crowds are revived when he sings the Kigooco songs like Jehovah Mwathani, Mwathani Wakwa, Wi Mutheru Gocai Ngai Witu and Paul andikiire Kanitha. Though passionate about GOD today, Ngaruiya early life growing up in a Pastor’s home was laden with drug addictions, street life and rebellion that led him to quit school at class 6. Born in Kwambira, Limuru, Ngaruiya went to Kimiriru Primary School and at an early age got into bad company.

Wrong Company

They vandalized toilets, stole fruits from farms and even stole from churches including his father’s tithes and offerings. As a group of 4 boys’ money the stole was spent wastefully on eating mandazi’s. Later Ngaruiya was caught by his Dad and church members and spent two days in police cell. He was released on promising he would go back to school. Getting home, he threw his school uniform in a pit latrine and ran away from home to Nairobi to be a street boy. “I never lacked anything, my parents always provided every to my every need,” recalls Ngaruiya.

Street Boy and Addictions

That begun a downward spiral of addictions to bhang and glue and eating from garbage dumps. Life in Nairobi streets was hard, and Ngaruiya briefly returned to Limuru environs and begged food from people. Addictions also took their toll and Ngaruiya and the boys made Kikuyu Cemetery their home and slept there. For the 6 months he run from home, his parents reported him missing. “I’d hear on radio they were looking for me,” Ngaruiya told Kikuyu Musicians. The turning point came when he learned his aunt from Kimende had died and attended the funeral. At the funeral he was unrecognizable with his dirty street boy clothes, he saw his granny from Subukia he loved, and approached her.

Path to Redemption

The granny told his parents and through her, begged Ngaruiya to come back home. He promised only if he would be allowed to relocate to Subukia with his granny. The parents obliged and gave his granny money for clothes and provision. It was at Subukia, the urge to go back to church arose. He joined a Full Gospel Church, incidentally attended by a Kikuyu gospel duo called mother and son. He began singing with the church’s youth group after apologizing for his past misdeeds.

“People loved my singing,” Ngaruiya recalls and being mature he was asked one day to preach at a youth event. After preaching 40 people got born again, when he asked to be prayed for salvation 20 more people were born again. Life at his granny’s in Subukia consisted of Ngaruiya in casual labor of digging at other people’s farms. Later he got employed at Subukia Posho Mill which increased his visibility in the community, in addition to being active in Christian youth groups. “We used to sing in crusades, churches and funeral wakes,” Ngaruiya recalls.

Debut Album

Through those connections he got employed by a Pastor in Nyahururu to lead praise and worship in his church for Sh1000 a month. Though the pastor loved him, the wife hated Ngaruiya and even denied him food. “It was a hard life I used to go without food until the next salary,” he said. By close of 2000 he had saved some money to record his debut album ‘Jehovah wi Ngai Munene.’ He had also reconciled with his parents and his Dad, Harun Ngaruiya, who chipped in to help Ngaruiya record it in Nairobi.

He moved back to Nyahururu stayed a while but went back to Subukia at his granny’s. In those two places he managed to sell over 500 copies in 3 months. “I’d sell in crusades and in village funeral committees,” said Ngaruiya. Doors opened, and when popular gospel musicians like Hezeh Ndungu visited Subukia Ngaruiya performed with them. He later relocated back to his parents in Limuru.

Connecting With Anastasia Karanja

With Nairobi in proximity, Ngaruiya got connected to his musical mentor the late Anastasia Karanja of ‘Ino Ngoro’ fame. She mentored him spiritually and taught him to sing. Through her, he got invites to sing where she ministered like Keshas (overnight prayer vigils). To increase his reach, Ngaruiya also looked at newspaper obituaries to know who had died. Even without having known the deceased he would request presiding ministers to let him sing a song loved by the dead persons. Pastors obliged and he would sing and never charge anything. Several trips like those made Ngaruiya known.

Singing in Funerals

By the time Kikuyu radio stations knew him, he had already established himself in gospel music in Central Kenya. “Strange I got know from singing in maombolezi (funeral wakes),” said Ngaruiya. With Anastasia they founded an overnight prayer vigil called My Night with the King. Later on with KK a minister in Coro FM they started a church from the Keshas. Of his 10 albums so far he has 5 with Kigooco classic songs produced to capture the modern musical sound with guitars.

He also has done an original worship album ‘Jehovah ni Twaguthaitha.’’ He admits to love traditional Kigooco songs due to their longevity and their ministering influence never wanes. His advice to budding musicians is patience not expecting instant success. Mingling with people to increase talent exposure is vital according to Ngaruiya. Though piracy has hit him hard Ngaruiya sees it as a blessing in disguise as it increases his music’s reach. “If piracy hits You, know Your product is good don’t give up,” he observes.

Composing and Elevation to Prominence

When composing he gets a tune and message in tow. “It’s hard to explain, but it comes from GOD,” he said. His gifting has enabled him to sing for big shots in government like current President Uhuru Kenyatta he considers a friend. Internationally he has performed in Uganda and will perform in UK in December 2013. He aims to widen the reach of his music internationally in Africa and beyond. He is active in social media like Twitter, Linked In and Facebook and MCs events like weddings.

Importance of Prayers by Parents

Looking back, Ngaruiya admits he could not be where he is, were it not for his parents’ encouragement and persistent prayers when he was a delinquent. He advises young people to avoid drinking or drugs as they will ruin their futures. Having been a Pastor’s Kid (PK) Ngaruiya cautions church members to pray for their pastor’s families and homes, as the Devil targets them much, to destabilize Pastors from doing effective ministry to congregants. ‘Menyithia Mwathani Mathina Maku’ (tell Christ Your problems) is a song he wrote when he passed through troubles. In the song he prophesies to himself that he will be rich and out of those troubles. “I am doing well today,” he chimes in with a smile.

Mentoring Budding Musicians

Today he performs over 10 shows in a weekend and mentors over 10 budding musicians. Some he mentors include Uncle Ken wa Koimbi, CB Sir and Sammy Boy. Any budding musician he comes across Ngaruiya first establishes if he is forcing the musical talent or not. If he senses it’s there he takes him to the best studio. On recording he advises them before submitting the record to radio stations or an audience to listen first. “If it doesn’t make you happy, it won’t make a stranger happy,” he cautions.

Humility is also key to success “love GOD, walk humbly, pray and GOD will exalt you,” Ngaruiya said. For a man who wished to be a Kenya Power engineer he says now his heart is at home singing gospel music.
You can contact Ngaruiya on www.facebook.com/pages/Ngaruiya-Junior-Na-Mafans/243532435720466 or via email ngaruiyajunior@yahoo.com or juniorngaruiya@gmail.com 

By Kikuyu Musicians Copyrights

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Ben Githae: The “mabataro makwa” hit maker shares his colorful musical journey

Before Ben Githae, sung Kikuyu gospel music for Kenya and the rest of the world, his first audience as a young boy growing up in Nduthi-Ini Village, Gatundu South comprised of coffee pickers. Instead of picking coffee, he would be perched on a coffee tree and singing for those picking. “My passion for music started at an early age,” remembers Githae.

Growing Up

He attended Muthurumbi Primary School and at that age knew he had a special gift among his peers of memorizing songs. As he remembers once he heard a song, he needed to hear it just once more, to be able to memorize it all, without messing any word. “I think I loved singing more than I do today as then I was a fan today other people are my fans,” Githae told Kikuyu Musicians. At primary school, other children came so he could copy songs lyrics for them. That led him to be nicknamed ‘Karendiu’ (small radio) for his love of anything singing.

Early Musical Influences

In the era of mid 70s the likes of John Ndichu of ‘Cucu wa Gakunga’ fame and later Mary Wambui, Mary Atieno, Shari Martin and the Kassangas in the 80s were musicians Githae admired. In primary school he was the vocalist during school festivals. He also at an early age was involved in Kikuyu children radio programs at KBC hosted by Jemimah Mwaura like Nyihia Hwai. Those programs used to tell stories of Wangombe wa Ihura and Githae would also sing on them.

Afterwards he went to Ituro high school where singing took a backseat to acting though he still sang traditional songs. “I was a very good actor and well known in Gatundu,” said Githae. After high school and getting a C+, his grandmother employed him, in her Posho mill as Githae explored his college options. Incidentally another now famed Kikuyu Gospel Musician Jane Muthoni used to work with Githae in that Posho Mill. Jane Muthoni, has actually composed a song “Ciugo Cia Kanua” based on her experience working in that Posho Mill owned by Githae’s grandparents.

Entry to recording

Working there, did not dim Githae’s musical aspirations in the village he was known as Githae of Carry 1 who loves to sing and works in a Posho Mill. Carry 1 was his grandfather’s nickname. Then in 1994 he got born again and with Jane Muthoni they used to compose songs at the Posho Mill. They also began leading praise and worship in churches around Gatundu and got many invites. “But we were good according to village standards,” recalls Githae laughing. In 1995, Githae composed ‘Mwiri Uyu’ while Jane also composed the famed hit ‘Giagai na hinya mwi thiini wa Mwathani.’ He desired to record.

People advised him to tape himself in a cassette then, approach a producer with recorded material. He approached Joseph Kamaru in 1996 with samples and Kamaru felt Githae could sing. As he had no money to record, all production expenses were shouldered by Kamaru. His first album ‘Mwiri Uyu’ was released that year. Githae remembers challenges for a budding musician then, wishing to have music receive radio airplay on KBC was that one had to go through known producers. Then it was the era of producers like Kamaru, Kassangas, Kimani Thomas and Wamaitu Productions.

Parental Resistance

The desire by Githae to be a musician wasn’t shared by his mom. Among the college options explored for Githae by his aunt was studying to be a teacher. There was also an uncle who could have connected him to study in medical college as a clinical officer. But Githae was adamant he wanted to be in music. This irked her mother, to thinking he was crazy. She would challenge Githae to be in a respectable dignified profession like a teacher or clinical officer not a musician. He persisted on his stand and in 1996 released ‘Mwiri uyu’ produced by Kamaru.

“I didn’t earn much from the album, the terms were awful but all the same I became a musician,” said Githae. The agreement with Kamaru was that per cassette sold he would earn Sh10. However for him to start earning the Sh10 per cassette, Kamaru would first have to sell 2000 cassettes to offset his production expenses. Still he managed to sell the 2000 copies and started receiving the cash.

For his second album he approached Peter Kigia who had better terms. Kigia gave him a down payment and per cassette sold Githae would earn Sh20 since he perceived Githae would sell and had talent. There he released a famed Swahili album “Chunga Ulimi Wako.” In 2002 he decided to self produce and around then Kameme FM had launched so for Githae who was a household name taking his music there was easy. He released ‘Aganu no Marithira’ he would sell it in crusades and churches and also released ‘Ndathima’ album. In 2005 he released ‘Nigukwagira.’ But in 2006 Githae decided to modernize his recording from the River Road style.

Kisima Award

The next album was produced at an up market studio in Westlands. It produced a monster of Swahili hit ‘Mulianza na Roho’ that won Githae a Kisima Award. In 2007 he released ‘ona ageria niekuremwo’ album that had hits like ‘niwe unjikite uu Mwathani’ and ‘irathimo Ciakwa.’ The following year he released ‘Timiza Maono’ a Swahili album. In 2010 he released the famed ‘Mabataro Makwa’ album which was a crossover hit among various tribes in Kenya. In 2011 he released ‘kaba kwiyaria’ and ‘witue mundu’ albums the latter a wisdom for living hit. In 2012 he released ‘Tabia Mbaya’ album and his latest in 2013 is ‘Guthii ni Guthii’ with hits like jubilee.

Composing Style and Mabataro Makwa Influence

Being such a prolific musician, when composing Githae draws song writing inspiration from situations he observes and the Bible. He also strives to make his songs relatable to everyday living. “Ultimately it’s GOD who gives me revelation,” said Githae. For his cross over hit ‘Mabataro Makwa’ he composed the song while on a plane from US to London seated near an old white grandma from UK. As he assisted her buckle and open a can of soda, the grandma would narrate to Githae of how rich she was, and properties she owned but not in a prideful manner. She told Githae, all she does nowadays is travel around the world to see her children and grandchildren.

As he flew from UK to Nairobi inspiration for ‘Mabataro Makwa’ hit Githae and the song about him desiring to be blessed by GOD abundantly occupied him. In the song there is a phrase if GOD created the earth and heavens by his Word, fulfilling Githae’s needs is no big deal to him. When he landed in Nairobi he polished the song that subsequently became a de facto spiritual anthem to every Kenyan, with needs waiting on GOD to fulfill them.

For Githae, composing comes chronologically like a story with melodies in tow. But there are songs that are problematic that he at times has to rest when composing and resume later with a fresh outlook. “ But others take 20 minutes,” he said. He attributes the longevity of his songs to GOD’s favor and also writing messages that relate to people and are Biblical. He points to a song like ‘Mulianza na Roho’ to illustrate how that Biblical message he based the song on, as still relevant today.

Humility amidst fame

Regardless of the fame he has received, Githae regards humility as key to exaltation. “Don’t let the celebrity mentality get into your head you will become prideful,” he said. “Let your songs go up in fame and leave you down here as Ben Githae,” he adds. According to him songs are the hit not the musicians. Though piracy he admits has hit him, he says advances in technology have opened other avenues for earning through music like Safaricom’s Skiza tunes and ringtones. “Concerts and shows I perform in can’t be pirated and I can’t complain, GOD has blessed me,” he adds.

Memorable Performances

To date Githae cites 3 shows as his most memorable performances. The first was in Nyayo Stadium hosted by Kameme FM where on taking the stage, people left the stands and run to the pitch to sing. The other was in Nyeri during the launch of Kikuyu Bible where Kenya’s former president Mwai Kibaki was attending. As Githae recalls, the former president even stood to sing and sway to the music which is uncharacteristic of him. The last event was by Safaricom in Meru, where he was a supposed to be a curtain raiser to the likes of Jaguar but he instead eclipsed them. “I went to that stage and the crowd atmosphere changed it gave me lots of joy,” Githae remembers.

Advice to Upcoming Artistes

His advice to upcoming musicians wishing to make it into the industry is to have their music professionally produced and aggressively push it to radio and TV. “Still it’s all about GOD’s favor and timing when it’s your time HE will make a way,” says Githae. Besides singing, Githae plays drums and by his humorous admission, is an amateur keyboard player who plays at events when no one else is available to play. He also prefers to sing live if instrumentalists are available than with playback.

For this father of two daughters, His faith in Christ guides him and has to coincide with his music to avoid misleading people. This year 2013 he turns 40 and is not ashamed to admit it.

Kikuyu Musicians Copyrights 

Kikuyumusicians@gmail.com

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Leah Mercy Ngugi: From rejection to redemption and ‘uranyarara niki’ inspiration

Within Kikuyu Gospel Music the song ‘uranyarara niki’ (why belittle me) is a staple in Kikuyu radio stations and has become a spiritual anthem to encourage those whose hopes are dashed by life’s trials and tempests. Yet if anyone was justified from a young age to give up on life, it was the songstress behind the song, Leah Mercy Ngugi.

Early Life Rejection

Leah was born to an unwed mother in Londiani Division Kericho County, over twenty years ago. Her mom conceived her while in high school, Form 2 as a result her well off, educated family due to shame she had brought expelled Leah’s expectant mom from home. Her mom reluctantly went to stay with Leah’s biological dad until she was born, but they separated later.

Frustrations got better of Leah’s mom and she saw her young daughter as reason why her future got destroyed. As a result by the time Leah was 7 years, she experienced lots of psychological and physical abuse from her mom. “She had no ill will but frustrations she got from parents were directed to me,” said Leah. Her mom also married another man and had children. The new step father to Leah, unlike her mom was “friendly” to her, but his intention was to sexually abuse her. It got so bad; that Leah was almost raped by her step father, at age 10.

Fearful of telling her mom since she would be beaten up; her only option was to run from home. She took refuge at a teacher’s home studied and worked as a house girl. Her relief was short lived as her mom came for her, beat her and urged her to leave home and get married. Surprisingly at school, regardless of domestic troubles Leah was academically brilliant and used to be number 1 or 2 in Kericho district at exams. Teachers were lenient on her due to her tough family issues and never punished her when she got to school late.

Fleeing home

With life at home unbearable, Leah travelled to Karatina by lying to get transport there. Getting to Karatina and stranded, a lady about her business noticed and approached her. Leah told her he was waiting for a lady who had promised to employ her as a house girl but couldn’t locate her. The lady gave her a house girl job at her house where besides being beaten, she was overworked and had to draw water from a well and irrigate land every morning and evening. The torture was too much that she fled and lied to get transport to Nyeri.

Homelessness

For two days in Nyeri, she wandered hopelessly and at night, slept in public toilets and bathrooms. By the 3rd day, she had not eaten. She went to a hotel called Munyaka and saw a youthful man on a table by himself. Hungry she gathered courage and told him she was hungry. The man ordered food for her. After eating she poured all her life frustrations on her. It was odd for her since in her life no matter, what she went through she never told anyone. Though the man was startled at first by her story, he broke out laughing. The man told her it’s no big deal and it’s normal to be chased away from home as he had also been chased. Leah got encouraged and saw it as normal to be chased away.

The man offered her a “home” to stay and told her there are others like him who had been chased way. Leah agreed and the man Njoroge later insisted he call her dad.

Living with Gangsters in a Cave

The man took her to a cave hidden in thickets by River Chania minutes away from Karatina town. The cave had thin mattresses, clothes and 5 other men. He introduced Leah to them as his daughter and organized for her, to be getting breakfast, lunch and supper at Munyaka Hotel at his expense. He used to give her money to buy mitumba (second hand) clothes at markets in Nyeri. For Leah, the cave was the best place she had lived. She considered it home since she had been in worse off situations. “I got to sleep without fear and I was happy,” said Leah.

Every evening they left and told her they had jobs of loading dry maize to trucks. They returned in the morning with wrapped up bhang. Leah was given the task of sorting seeds from dried plants. Then she didn’t know it was bhang. When they smoked it, they told her its medicine to treat their brain disorders. They also forbade her to smoke it by telling her if she did, she would be sick like them. But Within her she sensed something was amiss with the men but she was naïve to point it out.

Guns also used to lie around the cave but she had no idea what they were. “I’d never watched TV but I wondered what those were,” said Leah laughing. One day as she wandered around Nyeri she saw a policeman with an AK-47 gun similar to what she saw at the cave. Days later as she wandered in Majengo area a shoot out broke out between thugs and police. To her surprise one of the men involved was a man who lived in the cave. The police apprehended him by shooting his head and foot. Leah ran back to the cave crying and told Njoroge one of the accomplice had been shot. She was scolded by him and asked where she learned that was a shoot out.

Njoroge laughed and dismissed the shoot out as street play. She was warned if she saw that happen again she should run back “home.” He also enquired if she had been followed but she wasn’t. She was also warned never to ask about that particular shot uncle again she never saw him again. Another day as she went to a show in Ruringu stadium after Njoroge gave her Sh200 she bumped into another shoot out. Another of the robber Gichomo in the cave was shot and arrested, Leah never saw him again.

She ran back home with questions on their lifestyle. When she told Njoroge he was livid and insisted to her that was another street play not a shoot out. They were eliminated gradually. The third thug disappeared only Njoroge her “Dad” and Kamau were left. One day when her “Dad” was out Kamau attempted to rape her, she screamed and Kamau told her it’s only a play. She ran out crying into the thickets it brought recurring memories of her step Dad attempted rape years earlier. Luckily Njoroge arrived and asked her “my child why are you crying” when he saw her.

When Leah narrated her near rape ordeal, Njoroge her “Dad” had a physical confrontation with Kamau and stabbed him. Kamau screamed at Njorge “why do you want to kill me over a child You don’t know. “ Njoroge who led the gang threw his belongings out of the cave and expelled Kamau. “I think bhang made them very angry, Kamau left bleeding,” said Leah. The turn of events stressed Leah and at night she seldom slept due to fear. She left the cave and ran off to Mahiga market at evening as she stood there, stranded a lady saw and approached her.

Leah lied to her she was waiting for a Mama Wanja who had promised her a job. All ladies with that name were called and she said it was neither of them. The lady, decided to take her to be a house girl for her daughter. She was around 12 years and the lady who employed her, treated her well. After two days she went looking for Njoroge in the cave and found him washing his face in the morning. Shocked, he asked where she had been, Leah told him she got a job and was well treated. She took him to a neighborhood where she was employed. Satisfied Njoroge allowed her to stay there.

Njoroge - Gangster and Father Figure

One thing about Njoroge “Dad” that left an indelible mark in Leah’s life to date was despite Njoroge being a thug he counseled her on never to steal and to be obedient. “That man was my dad and mom,” recalls Leah. Every evening he came to check on her or at times in the morning. He would whistle and she would come out to avoid being discovered by her employer. She nevertheless discovered and but thought it was Leah’s boyfriend. Around that time Leah learned from a lady friend that in Nairobi there were better job opportunities.

Coming to Nairobi

She came to Nairobi alone and ended up in Kawangware. As she wandered about a lady who knew her from Londiani recognized her. She led Leah to her uncle’s place living in Kawangware. She worked there without pay but later got a house girl’s job at friend of her uncle’s. The lady of the house paid her Sh1200. She was overworked sleeping at 1am and waking up at 4am. She also at times never ate breakfast or lunch and supper was in rations. One day during street skirmishes in Kawangware she took a different route and ended up in her uncle’s home. She narrated to him all she went through.

Her livid uncle told her to stay but she insisted to go back for her belongings at her employer’s home. Going back to pick her stuff the lady threw Leah out. Afterwards, she had a change of heart on realizing the diligence Leah had when she worked did for her. She cried and begged her uncle to allow her but to no avail. While Leah still worked there, from her savings she would buy curtains, mitumba clothes and resell them. God blessed her with another house girl job that paid her Sh2000.

Early Business Beginnings

Not long, the owner who was a widower got so impressed with her work caring for her kids and great housekeeping and gave her a raise of Sh500. Since she had lots of free time, she noticed that across the street where she lived was a club owned by one of her employer’s brothers. Her employer allowed her to open a sausage stand next to it which she ran in her free time. The stand flourished that she opened another one and employed an attendant. Then she was 17 years and quit her house girl job.

Business Flourishing and God’s Favor

Her budding business of selling mitumba and curtains flourished that she rented a one bed roomed apartment for Sh5000 and later one for Sh9000. She then moved her business to Kahawa West. In 2007 she released her first album ‘Tigai gutua thakame ya Jesu Mai’ She got connected to the music industry through Murimi wa Kahalf of Momo fame who her customer. Later she met Trizah Wambui who was back up vocalist for ND Githuka’s Kahii CD and also backed her. She released her second album in which didn’t do well and a follow up Swahili album titled Unaweza in 2009.

Release of Uranyarara Niki Album

Album Launch @St Andrews

However Uranyarara Niki her 4^th album, brought her to fore of Kikuyu Gospel Music receiving much airplay in Coro, Inooro and Kameme FM. It was launched in April 14 2013, at St Andrews University way an event which Jeremy Damaris was MC. The song’s inspiration came after she got a lift in a vehicle owned by a friend who wasn’t willing to give it to her. By the time she got home she had the whole song worked out. She didn’t think much of the song even when she presented it late to Dede Records producer as album filler. When the producer heard it, he told her that is the main song. Her preference and one she thought would have impact on release was titled thimu ya Ngai (God’s Phone line).

Album Airplay and Impact

When she took the song to Kameme FM PM Squared opted to play Uranyarara Niki though Leah wasn’t convinced the song was a gem. Wanjiru wa Mbugua (Dere Supa) from Coro FM also preferred the song as well as Man Simo of Inooro FM. The song ended up becoming a monster hit and the album has so far sold 25,000 copies. “I thank God for uplifting me yet there are so many musicians’ songs never get airplay not because they are not good,” Leah told Kikuyu Musicians.

Reconciliation with Mom

Looking back at her life so far, Leah glorifies God for covering her in all she went through. Though her mom rejected her she has never hated or had grudges at her. By time of her passing in 2011 they were best of friends. “Though she tortured me, she made me get to where I am today,” says Leah. Her mom got born again and was her intercessor until her death. Though her mom asked her for forgiveness later Leah never bore in grudges against her. “She would pray and fast for me for days,” remember Leah. “I think God took her because I had turned her into a god and stopped prayed,” she adds. For her even if she is offended she forgets and moves on quickly. “I think it’s a weakness,” Leah says laughing.

Sharing Story at Kameme FM

When she shared her story on Kameme FM with presenter Rachel Wa Kuria the morning of launching ‘Uranyarara Niki’ album several suicides were averted. After the show 10 people called to tell her they were on verge of suicide but stopped and to date they still call. One case that struck her was of a lady who had already mixed up poison but opted to take it after listening to her story. She didn’t kill herself and ended up born again. Children were also reconciled with estranged parents. When she shared her story at Kameme FM she was surprised by the reception since to her, her life was ordinary. “There are people who have gone through worse, than me,” said Leah.

Life’s Lesson

From her life’s lesson she pleads with people to know for every trials and difficult times, there is a reason and God may have them there to usher one to destiny. Also living with Njoroge the gangster made Leah realize, God doesn’t have to use a Christian to help You. God uses worst of characters to be a blessing to a person like HE used Njoroge. “God also likes humility and out of that he will give You a testimony,” said Leah.

On Njoroge her Gangster “Father”

Looking back at the one year she spent in the cave under his care, Leah reckons God must have put an angel in the soul of Njoroge. This considering that Njoroge cared for her like a father to a daughter when he wasn’t obligated to, if anything Leah thinks, Njoroge could have done the worst to her if he wished, but didn’t. Looking back to her young life it’s now she notes the many risks she was under. She used to pray and that to her that was ordinary life even sleeping in public bathrooms.

Counselor

Her unfilled wish is to meet Njoroge and thank him. She has gone back severally to trace him in Nyeri to no avail. Since they parted when she came to Nairobi, Leah has never seen Njoroge again. “If I was to see him he would be my dad and best friend,” Leah says. Today she is a counselor to schools, couples and churches. She is also a building contractor who has helped musicians like Wakabura Joseph, Solomon Nganga and Loise Kim in their real estate building ventures.

Supporting Kikuyu Gospel

To support Kikuyu Gospel Leah has paid studio time for budding gifted gospel musicians who lack money to produce without ever asking for a refund. She however laments that gospel music today has become commercialized and more entertainment. According to her, when albums are being sold they need to be accompanied by preaching. “If one soul is saved there is more blessing,” said Leah.

Kikuyu Musicians Copyrights

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ND Githuka: ‘’Ahiurania’ hit-maker shares his faith and passion for worship music

As a young boy growing up in OlKalou, Nyahururu, in late 70s and early 80s, ND Githuka, the Kenyan Kikuyu gospel giant behind hits like kahii, mawiko and the latest ahiurania remembers singing. He treasured a visitor who passed by their home with a radio cassette as he got to listen to music. His earliest musical inspirations then were Julia Lucy, the late Milka Muthoni, and later Hezeh Ndungu, Geoffrey Wachira of Jesu niwe Nitho and Joseph Mwaura of Muthini wa Ngai fame. 

 

Early Starts

Prior to being born again in 1992, Githuka treasured godliness, reading the bible and attending Sunday school. “I think that drew me to sing gospel,” Githuka told Kikuyu Musicians. He loved wisdom for living songs sung by Kikuyu Music veterans like the late Francis Rugwiti and Timona Mburu. “I admired their composing, musical arrangements and messages in the songs,” said Githuka. However as he grew up he identified more with Kikuyu gospel music, in particular songs by Joseph Mwaura. 

 

After completing high school and failing to get sufficient grades for university where he wanted to study to be a doctor, Githuka got a teaching job, at James Gichuru high school. He taught Chemistry, Maths and Biology for two years. His desire was to gain admission to Medical Training Center but the plan collapsed as well. Instead in late 1991 to mid 1992 Githuka was admitted to a police college and after completing his course was posted to Gilgil, anti-livestock theft unit as an officer. In Gilgil he got born again and somehow felt his musical gift begin to grow within him. 

 

Any singing doubts he had, were dispelled after Githuka attended a meeting by Evangelist Teresia Wairimu in Uhuru Park grounds in 1994. She preached on going for the extra and released a prophetic word towards the side Githuka was, in the crowd. The word was, some in the ground were called to be worshippers yet are not singing yet songs being sung in gospel music were written in 1940s. For Githuka, that grasped his spirit to an extent that the following morning out of nowhere, messages and songs came from within him.

He started composing and by 1995 released his debut album ‘Tua Itua’ while still a police officer. The album sold 700 cassettes and he admits there were challenges in producing it. As a naive start up musician, he didn’t know where to record but Joseph Mwaura guided him to a studio and shared tips on the recoding process. Still as Mwaura was busy and couldn’t guarantee to supervise him record all the songs, Githuka was left at the mercies of the studio staff. He recalls recording one song and after it was done, was informed it needed backup singers to be better. However since recording technology then could not allow adding of back up after one sung it got spoilt. 

 

Lull in Recording

With those lessons learned, he recorded his second album Decapoli in 1998 and did fairly better than the debut selling 3000 cassettes in two years. It was then Githuka felt something in his music was not working. He took a break from music to research on production and to grow spiritually. He dedicated himself to prayer and reading the word of God. “I kept myself busy writing songs, polishing them and praying for God’s perfect timing,” Githuka told Kikuyu Musicians. In the spell away from music in 2001 he composed Kahii and finished it. 

Leap of Faith in Kahii release-2005

In 2005 an inner voice from God prompted Githuka to record his third album. “The voice was diving and powerful,” he adds. Then he worked in the police as a telecommunications engineer a course he pursued in the police force. He also recalls the voice telling him his work as an engineer was nearly done, as he was called to be a worshipper. With those spiritual confirmations, Githuka approached a recording studio without money. “All I had Sh500 in my bank account,” he recalls smiling but he had unmovable faith. 

 

When the studio inquired from him, how he would pay, he told them His father in heaven would write him a check and clear the money once it matures. Githuka was adamant it was God’s timing. The people he shared with on his recording project gave and lent him money. In total, the amount spent was Sh150, 000 to record and shoot the videos. When Kahii album was released in 2005 its fame spread like wildfire after getting first played in Inooro FM (where he took the album) other Kikuyu radio stations like Kameme and Coro FMs picked it. It brought Githuka to the fore of Kikuyu Gospel Music. 

 

Later Kameme gave him the first interview. Kahii success ensured Githuka even repaid those he owed money even before their set deadlines. In a short while title song Kahii was known worldwide. Githuka recalls a non Kenyan Pastor, from Australia who somehow came across the album, and called him to ask permission to screen the song Kahii to his congregation. The pastor informed him though his flock can’t understand Kikuyu language, the song and video was powerfully inspirational. People in Athens, Japan and Saudi Arabia were also calling to compliment him. “Yet I have never been to those places and people don’t understand the language,” Githuka said. 

 

Composing the funny 'Ahiurania'

For Githuka, his composition process is unique for every song. He gets melodies and messages when resting, driving or in everyday life. He normally saves his ideas to polish them later. He remembers composing Kahii and Mbara almost seamlessly. In every composition the Bible guides him. His latest humorous monster hit “Ahiurania” (swindlers/cons) is a testament to that. Based on Psalms 55, the song is based on real life experience Githuka has lived through and at pains to narrate.

According to Githuka, he has had an experience where close family members or friends borrow money and promise to pay back but never do. “People who swindle You are not strangers, you even attend church with them,” said Githuka. Inspiration also came from Githuka, observing corrupt institutions and how they rip off Kenyans. The songs sum the solution to such con schemes as God when we pray for him to deliver us. He composed Ahiurania in 2010/2011 though the album was released this year 2013, and has so far sold 50,000 copies and due for launch June 9^th at St Andrews University Way entry free.

Combined he estimates to have sold almost half a million of all his albums in original copies but confidently estimates he could have sold 10 million but for piracy. He markets his music through wholesalers and distributors around Kenya or moves it in cars around estates.

Githuka views gospel music as a ministry requiring leading by the spirit of God and sustained by the word of God. Walking in humility is vital as its God the gift giver. “Once You know it’s the Lord who exalts You won’t exalt yourself but seek to be humble like Jesus as you seek to mature to his nature,” said Githuka. He adds that Jesus is the model of humility as He washed His’ disciples’ feet and we should mirror him.  

Such drive pushes him to perform without charging a coin as he reckons no one can pay for a God given gift. “The levels I have reached I seek to be a blessing and to bless others,” said Githuka. Freely You have received freely give to bless God’s people is his philosophy. Still he is thankful fans buy his music via Skiza tunes which enables him to continue in the music ministry. 

 

Stand Out Ministry Places

To date among the places he has ministered through music, Githuka remembers a crusade in Jabet Area in Marmanet, Kenya where he got there late at 7pm. As he sung, 2 stars in the sky moved and stood on sky above them. After finishing the song Kahii he did an alter call and 28 people gave their lives to Christ and kids were spirit filled. The meeting run up to 10PM yet people wanted to continue. He also recalls ministering in Kagio and Kiamutugu where smoke filled the room. “There was heavy anointing in those places,” Githuka adds. 

 

Future-Worship Teacher

As a passionate worshipper Githuka aims in the coming years to establish a school of worship along Thika Road to equip worship leaders and grow their gifts for years to come. He currently mentors upcoming gospel musicians like CB Sir. He is of the view that, in Christian music there is nothing like a gospel artiste; rather it’s a gospel minister in praise and worship. “What angers me is seeing a music ministry not winning souls to the kingdom, as it should like other ministries do like evangelistic, apostolic, pastoral and teaching,” said Githuka.

The father of two confesses there are people who after listening to his music called, asking to be born again and he leads them on phone. Afterwards he does follow up and connects them to the nearest churches so they can grow spiritually. For his public performances he uses playback to limit on expenses brought about by use of live instrumentation. He dedicates himself to composing though he admits he almost learned guitar but someone denied him an opportunity.

Though open to performing in the diaspora fans in outside countries he follows the Biblical Mandate in the book of acts of reaching his Jerusalem before going to Judea.

You can contact ND Githuka on +254 720 257 550 or kikuyumusicians@gmail.com

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