Beatrice Wangui (Jordan): From sleeping on the floor to excelling in Kikuyu Gospel Music

Early Life

In Kikuyu Music, Beatrice Wangui is nicknamed Jordan after the title of her 2002 debut hit album. Born in Kanyenyaini, Muranga County, the young Wangui had a natural talent in music as she grew up, in late 70s and early 80s. Then, she was the lead singer at youth camps organized by churches and at primary school festivals. What was evident at that young age was, Wangui had a natural talent to compose original songs that were sung at weddings, church events or music festivals. 

I’d just sit down and God would give me ideas on what to compose,” Wangui told Kikuyu Musicians. Later on she taught her peers to sing the songs she composed. She also credits her music teacher Mr. Gitau who gave her vocal training. A song like Jordan, which later got recorded in her debut album Wangui recalls she wrote it when young. “I never thought those songs could be produced,” Wangui said. 

Meeting Nebster Muhiko

After class 8 due to lack of fees and family problems Wangui’s formal education halted. With no further formal educational prospects, she joined her mother in picking tea as a casual laborer until 2000. She left home for her brother’s place in Nairobi. By then, songs that later were in the Jordan album, were being sung in Churches in Muranga before they were recorded. While at her brother’s place, she bumped on Nebster Muhiko a renowned gospel musician who was hawking his cassettes. 

Wangui longed to have her music produced and she be selling it. She approached Muhiko for advice on having her music produced. Less than a week later, Muhiko auditioned her to see if she could sing and was so impressed they did a duet on one of his songs “My Husband” after 3 days of rehearsal. Muhiko approached Joestar Productions and asked them to produce Wangui’s songs. Her mother gave her 20,000 to pay for the recording but the quality didn’t impress her. 

Debut Album Jordan

She re-recorded the whole Jordan album in 2002 and the VCD was released in 2005. The title song inspiration came from a preaching Wangui heard at a young age, on the story of Naman the leper king dipping himself on the Jordan River 7 times to be healed. The Jordan album was an instant debut hit and to date she has sold over 100,000 copies. That instant success from a first album made her realize it’s GOD who anoints one with favor and it’s not much about hard work.

“I know musicians who sing 5 albums and are it’s their 6^th that is recognized just wait on GOD,” noted Wangui. Her follow up album to the debut was a Kigooco (praise) album that added modernity to traditional Kikuyu spiritual gospel songs. Her third album Nikii Giki Wonire (what did you see) also hit. The title song, driven by a Keyboard riff from Njoroge Wa Keyboard sold and gave her lots of money. The title song, came about after she realized a friend she got saved with at a young age, and with whom they prayed together had backslid and gone to drinking and promiscuity. 

“It broke my heart to see her in that state, and in a way the song is directed to all backsliders though that lady life inspired the composition,” said Wangui. She recalls, her and the lady making promises to God when they were young at youth camps that if GOD blessed them, they would tithe and take care of the widows and orphans. The album garnered her money in millions of shillings and she bought her first car, a plot and built her home with 5 bedrooms. Until today, the album still sells at her music shop at Simba Centre River Road Nairobi. 

Composition through Experiences

To Wangui composing comes naturally, she gets the message or theme of the song first and the melody comes later automatically. “It’s a gift from GOD,” she adds. Most of her songs like ‘Niunumbuyagia Mwathani’ are on encouragement and draw inspiration from things she witnesses. In Jordan album, she sang a song ‘Ona Warumwo’ (even if taunted), after she visited a home where a mother in law publicly mocked her son’s wife, because she wanted him to marry another lady from a rich family unlike the one from a poor family she married. The song was directed to the lady to trust GOD amidst her tribulations.

Wangui’s own experiences have also served to inspire compositions. In her album Giki No Kiambiriria (This is a start) the title song and Tiga Niwe Mwathani (Were it not for You Lord) song are her story. After she began to be blessed she some friends start to gossip and get jealous of her. “Some friends I’d helped hated me not because I wronged them,” Wangui said. That inspired Wangui to compose Giki no KIambiriria, to illustrate this is just a beginning of God’s blessings with many more to come, and she won’t look back or stop praising because of jealousy.

Tiga Niwe song in Giki no Kiambiriria album also came through an experience. After she moved out of her brother’s home, she got reluctantly housed by her mom’s friend. But on the third week she was chased out subtly. Wangui recalls she used to sleep on the couch in the living room. One day the lady home owner woke her up at 5am, and told her there would be visitors who would sleepover. Wangui asked if she could come back in the evening, the lady home owner told her no, because the visitors would be there for days. That day, she went back to the village and joined her mother in picking tea there as she hawked some of her cassettes.

Sleeping on Cartons on the Floor and Power of Prayer

With the money she accumulated, Wangui came back to Nairobi, and rented a one room house in Huruma estate. On that house for 4 weeks, she slept on hard cartons spread on the floor and covered herself with a leso. She had borrowed the cartons from an Asian trader until she got money for a mattress. During the day she hawked cassettes. Still, she admits she loved life and was happy and content she had her own house and independence. Since earlier days a friend in earlier days had chased her out of a house they shared.

“Those who know me and my home today, don’t believe when I tell them I slept on cartons on the floor, GOD has blessed me,” said Wangui. That inspired her to compose Tiga Niwe song. Wangui says people should not despise themselves due to lack of education or coming from poor backgrounds. “I know GOD can mould Your life, educated or not if You have faith in HIM, this is me,” she adds. She also attributes her success to a prayer lifestyle as there are instances man may not be of help due to jealousy or biases. “Tell GOD what You desire,” she said.

Advice to Budding Musicians

To avoid frustrations of finding the right studio, Wangui advices budding musicians like from the village to connect with musicians whose music they like. With her she connected with Muhiko but with time got to know better quality recording studios. “I knew I could sing and my motive was for people to get God’s message through my songs,” said Wangui. Money according to Wangui, shouldn’t be motivate a gospel musician as ministering is what matters most. “Be patient and You will be rewarded by GOD even amidst piracy since GOD’s land never lacks harvests,” said Wangui.

She also urges one to go to gospel music only if it’s a calling from God not with aim of getting money like other established musicians. “Many have come with different motives and ended up disappointed,” said Wangui. Having been established as a gospel musician, she mentors and does backup vocals for other upcoming ones like Jane Mumenya, Milkah Irungu and Maggy Francis. She also sells their new music at her shop at Simba Centre which she has operated since 2004. And distributes the music through her car to reach more people and curtail the influence of pirates.

Her Future Aims

Her aim in coming years, it to start a music production studio to record other new musicians, currently she records at Dede records. However Wangui prefers to record at various studios to get different sounds. Niki Giki Wonire was recorded by John Chege of Strongpoint Media. To grow artistically in her music craft, she listens to other more established musicians to learn. She has also collaborated with Muigai Wa Njoroge and Muhiko in an album title Crisis 1 and 2 highlighting issues of IDPs in Kenya.

Elevation to Elite Platforms

Through music Wangui has gotten to perform for current Kenya’s President Uhuru. Every Friday to Sunday she sings at events like overnight prayer meetings, weddings and Sunday church services. Lately every Friday with Ngaruiya Junior, Njoroge wa Keyboard, Triza Wangui and Makumbi Pilot they do a praise show at Kameme FM hosted by Kamau wa Kamlesh. To Wangui, she considers that it’s GOD who chose them to be in that platform, since they were chosen from a big pool.

Besides music, she acts as ‘Wagacuma’ and produces Christian themed plays with the likes of veteran River Road actor, Wandahuhu, Githendu and Nyakirata. Even when young she used to act in school plays. Those plays centre on God giving victory in every situation one goes through. Wangui runs a group caring for orphans and widows and urges fans to join her in that ministry. “Its what I promises GOD I’d do if HE uplifted me, besides tithing and HE has,” she said.

Besides GOD, Wangui appreciates her fans even in Diaspora buying her music and are blessed by it. She urges those outside Kenya, to invite her to minister in crusades or churches, and prays that GOD gives them their hearts desires. She is also a mother to a son who is a hardware trader in Ruiru town, and a daughter who works closely with her in gospel music ministry. Wangui is highly appreciative of her mom who always encouraged her and gave her money to record her first album. “I love her so much she is my second god,” she said smiling. Contact Wangui at nikiiwonire@gmail.com

 

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John Chege: From humble beginnings to producing Kikuyu Gospel Music heavyweights

Strongpoint Studios

Since 2004, John Chege of Strongpoint Digital Media in Rwaka, has distinguished himself as the go to, music producer among established and upcoming Kikuyu Gospel Musicians. To date by his estimation he has produced around 3000 gospel musicians. His production credits, has the who is who in Kikuyu Gospel Music like PJ Kongo, Jane Muthoni, Ann Kariuki, Carol Wanjiru, ND Githuka, Hezeh Ndungu, Dennis Mutara, Jeremy Damaris, Beatrice Wangui (Jordan), Solomon Nganga, Shiru wa GP and others. 

Early Starts and Musical Exposure

Yet for this soft spoken man, his early beginnings in life, music and eventually production were humble and required faith. Born in Kangema, Muranga, he relocated with his mom to Banana, Kiambu when he was 7 years. The relocation in 1985, exposed him to a church with instruments unlike ones he attended earlier in Rwathia village, Kangema. By 1992 on completing class 8, he began dabbling with musical instruments and gadgets like mixers at Restoration Victory Ministries Banana, where he attended. 

“Anything musical had a pull on me and fascinated me,” Chege recalls. That exposure enabled him to learn how to control solo and choir voices in a mixer. Also, as a self taught bass and keyboard player, he could detect when songs were sang on or off key. “God had placed me there for a reason, I realized later” Chege told Kikuyu Musicians. Controlling the instruments on mixers gave him an early idea on what a studio requires, to be fully functional. 

Early production forays

At one of the Church’s youth retreat Chege met Paul Mbugua, of Ndakinyite Beshrani fame, who informed him, on use of computers to record music. That realization, bugged his conscience and he thought of buying a computer and trying it, but could not afford one. Early 2004 with Mbugua tutelage in a small house he could barely afford rent of Shs800, in Banana, they borrowed basic recording machines. There, Chege recorded his debut album “Nikwari Mundu” on Job’s tribulations. He followed it up with a quick launch in April 2004, which netted him Shs37, 000. 

After paying all debts he owed like rent, he was left with Shs26, 000 and bought a desktop computer he uses to record to date. His foray to mainstream production and recognition began after meeting PJ Kongo who added to Chege’s musical knowledge. Chege had never studied computers formally, but learned to operate it by using his’ Bishop Michael Chege’s computer. Kongo introduced him to Fruity Loops music programming software. For 6 months he produced Kongo’s “Raha Ciathi” album in his home makeshift studio, using a church microphone plugged to an old cassette deck to capture vocals. 

Production Breakthrough

The song became a hit after Joe Rugano then of Kameme FM, played it after being impressed by its digital quality production. “Then it was rare for Kikuyu Gospel Music to digitally produced, most studios produced with live instruments,” recalls Chege. People who heard Kongo’s song, begun enquiring where it was recorded. “Musicians begun flocking to us, and always got shocked since they expected to find a huge recording studio, with pricy equipments,” said Chege. Since there was no recording booth they would start near the computer and sing. “If there was an interruption we recorded again,” Chege recalls.

Importance of Focus and Single Mindedness

Solomon Nganga followed and recorded his debut album ‘Ngai atua itua niegukurathima.’ Today Chege acknowledges Strongpoint Media is where it is, because of those humble beginnings. In growing his studio Chege admits its taken faith, focus and single mindedness. When he decided to be a producer, he closed a milk kiosk that guaranteed him some basic income, to focus all his strengths in the then, fledgling Strongpoint Media. “My mother thought I’d gone mad, since the studio didn’t earn me anything then,” Chege recalls he had unpaid rent arrears and ate food, at his mom's place. 

Still, his passion kept him going. A vital lesson he learned is the importance of avoiding distractions when pursuing one’s passion. “I feel we Africans, dabble in so many things at once, than focus on a single goal, and give it 100 percent,” he said. Even when initial outcomes of a venture may not be promising, Chege urges people not to quit. “I never gave up though I knew Capital required to start a studio is much,” he recalls. The story of Moses encouraged Chege, when Moses was asked by GOD what he had in his hand, when he had a rod. Chege is still attached to that computer he uses to date. “It’s only the screen I’ve changed and rather than lose it, I upgrade it,” said Chege sentimentally.

Chege attributes his success to prayer, honesty and GOD. “If I ever walk away from GOD that will be my downfall, God started this,” he said. Before an album project commences, they pray for it with the musician, and every morning before he starts producing. Also he listens to aspirations the musicians have for how their albums will sound like. “As a producer, I can’t stifle his creativity my role is to make suggestions, and correct errors if I interfere, I could stop the album being a hit,” said Chege. 

Producing Shiru wa GP’s Agiginyani

This is the way they worked on Shiru wa GP monster guitar driven hit album “Agiginyani.” Shiru came up with ideas for guitar; Chege sourced the session guitarist best fitting the album in Utukufu. He also ensured they were recorded to improve the song, not take anything away. His belief is, if he engages a musician in the creative process, they will all be satisfied in the final project. He remembers once, Jane Muthoni came with a song that had been recorded 4 times without her satisfaction. He listened to what she wanted, and recorded it once and she was happy with it. 

Production Philosophy

Each day in his studio he books one musician daily, so that he perfects the production and delivers on time. “If I do one great job today it guarantees me a future as a producer,” emphasized Chege. He is also a firm believer in peer consulting not being a know it all producer. Where he feels cooperation with a producer or an instrumentalist will improve the album, he engages them. That ensures every album produced is unique and doesn’t sound like another out in market. “At the end the musician is satisfied and listeners love what came out,” said Chege. To finish an album takes him 1.5 weeks, and he charges from Shs5000 onwards for each song produced. 

For the last 3 years, Chege has been working with students interested in learning music production from him. He also has enrolled to study music production at a college, having never studied it formally. He urges budding producers to learn to play instruments, as that way, they can easily spot errors in instrumentation and understand their coordination with vocals. This father of a boy and a girl also urges producers not to be driven by money. But focus more on moulding, even a least talented musician, to be a success and leave the uplifting matters to GOD. 

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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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Salim Young: On growing up in Salim musical family and future hopes

Laban Kinuthia Salim who goes by the stage name Salim Young, is a scion of the famous guitar playing Salim family from Subukia, Nakuru. The family is largely credited with introducing to Kenya, the concept of playing One Man Guitar or Mugithi in entertainment spots accompanied by a drummer. The Salim family has produced the likes of Salim Junior, Mighty Salim, Sarafina Salim and now Salim Young.

Early Musical Starts

This family of eight with Salim Young born in 1990, the youngest of brothers was introduced to music by their Dad, Salim Senior, today a Private School Entrepreneur and Instrument’s tutor in Subukia. Like his singing siblings Salim Young was inspired by Dad who sang gospel. Contrary to popular belief, neither of his family members were Muslims due to the name Salim. Their Dad chose to be addressed by it as he wanted a name without many people. “We all now use it as our surname, it stuck,” chuckles Salim.

Early Musical Influences and Guitar Practice

Besides the Dad, Salim Young was was inspired by music of the late great Sammy Muraya of Subukia Success band. “That man’s songs inspired me a lot I remember seeing him when I was younger,” recalled Salim Young. Then Salim Junior worked at Sammy Muraya’s studio in River Road. Salim Young recalls picking the guitar and learning to play a tune when in nursery school. To learn he tapped what his Dad and elder brothers taught him, but admits to perfect his skills has taken dedication and discipline.

Studying in high school Salim Young awoke at 5am and before going to school practiced for 30 minutes. Their home due to their Dad’s musical inclinations had instruments like an accordion, keyboards and a recording studio. “I accessed the guitar at a very early age,” Salim Young recalls. That exposure, research and practice aided him to learn various guitar chords and styles growing up in Subukia.

Producer and Session Guitar Player

Today Salim Young plays Mugithi and on tracks of other musicians like his sister and band mate Sarafina Salim. He also plays keyboards, bass and lead guitar and has done production at Kuruga wa Wanjiku’s studio. Though still budding in music, Salim Young admits One Man Guitar shows pay his bills though they pay less. They have also formed a band with his elder Sister Sarafina, and perform Mugithi together with him, playing lead and rhythm guitar.

Debut Gospel Album and Performances

Now on cusp of releasing his first self produced gospel album, ‘Tondu wi Hinya’ Salim Young is studying Business Management and Entrepreneurship online so he can juggle the recording. Though coming from a rich background of One Man Guitar and Mugithi players, Salim Young admits being drawn to gospel music due to his mother’s godly influence, from a young age. Still on weekends, he performs at Trotters Club in Kenol , Muranga but has performed in Mombasa, Karatina, Banana and Manyatta.

Though not yet complete, ‘Ngatho’ one of the songs in the album done in Chakacha style is receiving airplay at Inooro FM. But Salim Young expects Tondu wi Hinya and Nindoka Mbere Yaku tracks to impact more once released. Having been a committed member of Subukia Town Baptist, Salim Young admits has impacted his creativity. “I think I do gospel music better than secular,” he said.

Composition Style

Salim Young composed the songs by observing people’s lives and trials they go through. The title track Tondu wi Hinya came by watching how people complain to GOD they got no shoes, yet there are those without legs to wear the shoes. ‘Nindoka Mbere Yaku’ was a personal repentant prayer song to GOD for straying away by doing things that may have annoyed HIM. The tune for songs he says he got them from GOD’s revelation and always prays for that. “I can be asleep at 3am and a tune comes to my brain, and I wake up and record it on my phone,” says Salim Young.

Salim Young’s Production Philosophy

For the self produced album he played all guitars in it. But consulted his Dad and seasoned producers in Leemax and Studio Sawa to gain extra production skills to apply in his album. Salim Young believes in producing albums with instruments being played than programmed and loves performing live. “Live music is richer with more creativity without monotony of programmed bass lines,” he said. To him, music needs to incorporate the unique richness and playing style of a keyboardist, guitarist, bassist and vocalists. Though optimistic on his debut album, piracy possibility nags him, but wishes the government was more proactive in fighting it.

Future Optimisms

That however has not stopped Salim Young, from being optimistic about the future and hopes to create music that’s heard beyond Kenyan borders if well produced with top notch technology. “Quality music rich in messages and well played instruments even if people don’t understand the language they will buy it,” he said. Challenges to getting to that level according to Salim Young, remains production expenses, elite recording equipments and instruments. So far his debut album has cost him Sh50,000 to produce. “Yet I can’t release it until I feel its quality my fans will appreciate,” said Salim Young.

To The Fans

To the fans Salim Young says he is just beginning and should be patient and anticipate the music he is set to release. “Once released they will understand who Salim Young musically,” he said. He is grateful to fans and feels this album will be a way of giving back to them, for supporting him and promises to not let them down. “If they give me a chance,” Salim Young told Kikuyu Musicians.

To Book Salim Young reach him on labansalim@yahoo.com

Copyrights to Kikuyu Musicians November 9, 2013

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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 

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Modern Kikuyu Worship Classics Songs

Carol Wanjiru

From time to time in Kikuyu Gospel, there comes along artistes who craft Kikuyu worship songs that take us into deeper knowledge of Jesus Christ. Some of the artists may not be famous but their songs touch us. For some it might be the only song(s) they are known but others they are prolific. Nevertheless let us celebrate them. We are not suggesting these songs are the only ones, If You know others kindly leave comments below this post. Some may not even have audio or video on Youtube.

Munduiriri - This is a song by Carol Wanjiru from Uthiru. This song was composed from her personal experience on a painful broken engagement. This prayerful song is basically about praising God regardless of your current situation. It praises God as the one who fights our battles. She also has other modern worship classics like Munguuri and Turi Uhore all worth a listen.

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Muhaturi – This is new song by a new artiste Freddy K. Its prayer and deep complemented by sultry female back-up vocals. This worship song is about GOD who is our rescue in times of our troubles. Freddy praises GOD as the one who is his rescue in times of troubles. It’s worth a listen when one feels discouraged or low in life.

Muguthaithi – This is a song by Mercy Ken. It’s basically a song on worshiping God day and night. Mercy Ken also thanks God for making her a worshipper. The song has been around for a while getting airplay from all stations like Inooro, Coro and Kameme FM.

Niwikite Magegania – This song by new artiste Sammy Irungu is currently ruling the airwaves. In it Irungu praises GOD for perfoming miracles that he even can’t explain. When Irungu performs the song even people who are seated stand up and worship their arms up in the air.

Kiriga – This is a song by the prolific, worshipper from Nyeri, Charles K Kingori, it’s from the album by the same name. In the song Kingori sings about the wonders of GOD that leave him in awe and wonder. Its message is borrowed from the old and new testament in the Bible. Kingori as a relatively new artiste in Kikuyu music has cut a niche of writing songs with Biblical messages. His trademark in his songs is the constant refrains in nearly all of the compositions. His other worship songs are Mahindi momu, Ngai Kihoti, Njamba ya Ita and his latest Ndi Murathime.

Hau Noho – This is a song by Mirugi Dishon of Matiribu fame. Of the songs in the list, this is one least played anywhere among the three stations of Inooro, Coro and Kameme FM. It’s what one would call an underground hit which Mirugi sings in churches or crusades. The song’s message is about waiting on God patiently without giving up. Its melody is driven beautifully by a keyboard and drums and faded guitar melody. It borrows heavily on Bible stories of Hannah and Peninah.

Nyitagirira – This is a wonderful song by Esther Muthoni based in the US. It’s beautifully produced and speaks about God being our refuge. In the song Muthoni speaks the song from Bible verses and the chorus is about God holding us up so we don’t faint or fail.

Moko Marathime – This is a song by Njuguna Gicheha also an actor in Kameme FM’s Micii ni Ndogo as Man Nyari. The song borrows heavily from the Bible story of Adam and Eve and their being expelled from the Garden of Eden. The song is about God blessing the works of our hands and whatever we do prospering as a result. Gicheha urges people to prophesy positively about the works of their hands. It’s one of the most requested songs.

Mutharaba: This is an old song by Pastor Isaac Kahura. In the song he urges the listeners to carry the cross of Christ without compromising regardless of the situations. He narrates a story in there about a man who patiently carried the cross without cutting it and was able to cross the river with it. Yet there was another who cut his cross to be lighter and couldn’t use it as a bridge to the river.

Mawiko: This is a song by ND Githuka of Ahiurania from the Mawiko album. The song is about God’s doings, blessings and His everlasting mercies. In it Githuka also sings about GOD who blesses everyone who pleases. The album also has hits like Dekapoli and Hingurira.

Jesu niwe Hitho: This is a timeless 90s worship classic sung by Geoffrey Wachira. In the song Wachira praises Jesus as his hiding place in times of turmoil. He commits to make Jesus his refuge and strength in all the days of his life. No audio/video available on Youtube.

Nii Nindiriirie Guguturira: This is a song by Milkah Wanjiru also of Nithengiu Ngai Wakwa fame. The song is about desiring to live for God all the days of life. In the song she prays to God to give her a heart that fears the Lord. It’s a worship song easy to sing and remember. Wanjiru based in Naivasha is not much known but her songs bless us.

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