The Kenyan musical ensemble, Sauti Sol, formed by Bien-Aime’ Baraza, Willis Chimano, Savara Mudigi and guitarist Polycarp Otieno, has, for 18 years proudly represented Kenyans through their captivating melodies solidifying their status as one of the nation’s most beloved musical acts on a global scale.
Even though the band announced their separation last year 2023 after 18 years of wholesomeness , their legacy is deeply ingrained in the fabric of Kenyan music such that any account of Kenyan music history would be incomplete without a prominent mention of Sauti Sol.
While each Kenyan band has its own unique style, it’s only natural to wonder, will there ever be another group like Sauti Sol?
Looking at the bands currently on the scene and the music they are producing, it is safe to say that there’s hope for the future.
Let’s explore some of the bands making waves in Kenya
- Vijana Barubaru
Tutu Kantu and Mwana wa Wambui, as a duo band, (Vijana Barubaru) have attracted a significant fan base who deeply resonate with their music. Their songs draw from personal experiences and themes that connect with listeners on a relatable level.
The band once mentioned that they had been in the music industry for over 7 years without anything to show for it until recently when they blew up.
Their smash hits, ‘Nakupenda’ and ‘Sasa hivi,’ have firmly established their place in the Kenyan music scene, garnering over 6 and 10 million views on YouTube respectively.
2. Watendawili
This is a duo band consisting of Eugine Ywaya and Israel Onyach who sings around almost the genre as sauti sol which is Afro pop but with a distinct style that’s all their own.
The two were previously signed by Sol generation before calling it quits revealing that the deal made them prioritize pleasing their signees over crafting music that truly propelled them toward their interests and goals.
The lyrics created by this two are just out of this world and we all know the essence of words, how it can truly captivate and move us.
One of my favorite lyrics from them is “Mwenzako mi ni kama wazimu tangu penzi lako linipate, ju napenda kupendwa na wewe,” which is from their latest acoustic track “Napenda kupendwa na We.”
The duo, are catching up with the numbers creating an intimate fan base with their most popular track Cham Tum(atoti) still making waves with over 1Million views on YouTube.
3.Brokuod
‘From the word Bros’ I believe, Bruokod is a trio band comprising of Mbithi, Mabeya (Crooner), and Petero who are fast cementing their place in the Kenyan music industry.
The trio are very well known for their captivating live performances embodying the true essence of “what you order is what you get” with their enchanting vocals.
Similar to Sauti Sol, the trio are Afro-pop sensations. However they’ve expressed their beliefs that they shouldn’t be confined to one genre as they aspire for diversity in their music.
Brokuod has released three EPs, Sherehe, Kwetu, Shades of Us and are yet to release their debut album this year.
4.Jadi Music
Jadi is a Kenyan Afrofusion boy band composed of Vince and Don.Tumbo and are signed by Kaka Empire.
The two youngins are well known for their sensational love songs, characterized by captivating lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners.
