1. KIU
KIU is an all-girl music group comprising of Tracy Barkhita, Rosa Nkatha and Pauline Ayuko that was formed in April 2013. KIU’s music is a fusion of sounds. They draw a lot of inspiration from different artists in different genres; as a result their music is also a blend of sounds. From upbeat Afro-pop, powerful rhythmic blues and smooth soulful R&B to a spruce of well textured melodic Indie. Their music is characterized by silky harmonies and soft-but strong vocals. The group came into the limelight following the release of “Mwanake” the second single off their first album. They also did an absolutely lovely cover of Davido’s Aye. And this year they dropped Shugli which is an immensely catchy tune. KIU is definitely a group you should keep your eye on. Their songs are available for download on Mdundo.
2. Monitah
Monitah is a singer, songwriter and poet. She has her roots in the Neo-Soul, Afro-Fusion and Hip hop genres and is generally very diverse in the musical sphere. Her first video- Barua was a throwback to the high school days that will take you down memory lane and it’s a track you’ll be sure to repeat. It was an absolutely beautiful video debut and we can’t wait for what Monitah has in store.
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/mo_nitah
3. Mayonde
Mayonde first came to the public’s attention when she featured in Just a Band’s Have You Seen Her. She went on to partner with the band on various other projects. Last year, she finally released her debut album “Magic In The Air”. Also, she was one of the performing acts at this year’s Blankets and Wine. Yes Mayonde music is that good and she’s an artist you should definitely monitor closely.
4. Liron
Liron’s music is an eclectic blend of soul, blues and jazz. Her debut album, “Prodigal Son”, melds all these genres resulting in a lush sound. As a result of her efforts, Liron received two AFRIMA nominations: Best Artiste in African R&B & Soul music and Most Promising Artiste in Africa. Liron is certainly a promising talent you should watch keenly. Her song- Wapendeza is available for download on Mdundo.
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/lironsoul
Third Hand Music is a group comprising Ken-Albert Orwa,Collins Collo Kemboi and Ikole Mwikamba Chara. The group came into the limelight following the release of Helena which was released to several positive reviews. And 3HM recently announced they are dropping a new track next week. We definitely can’t wait for what this talented ensemble has planned for the future. Helena can be downloaded on Mdundo.
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/third-hand-music
6. Mankind
Mankind comprises four artists: M.A.N.E, Nayda, the Cloak, and Nomad alongside producer Humanoid and manager Marvin. Mankind categorizes itself as an Urban Pop group but that tag is confining. Their music draws influences from vast genres of music like R&B, hip hop and electronic music. And they fuse these elements almost perfectly. Mankind’s music is a refreshing listen. If you like music that deviates from the norm then you should definitely listen to this creative outfit. Mankind’s music can be downloaded on Mdundo.
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/mankindmusicband
7. Baby T
Baby T released a number of songs however jumping on the success of Kristoff’s club banger, Dandia, she released her own version Dandiwa that finally catapulted her to fame. And she is keeping the momentum going. This year she partnered with veteran rapper Sharama on the infectious Cheza Mbali. And she slayed on the song. Baby T is a fast rising female rapper you should monitor closely. Her music is available for download on Mdundo.
8. Joy Gitau
Joy Gitau is endowed with a lovely voice. Proof of this: She was one of the top 6 contestants in the 2014 Trace Music Stars competition and last year she was nominated for the AFRIMA Awards in two categories: the Best Artiste in African R&B & Soul music and Most Promising Artiste in Africa alongside Liron. She defines her music as an amalgam of R&B, Pop and Soul and she combines these genres wonderfully resulting in a rich sound. Joy is certainly an artist you should listen to, especially if you are into music that’s pleasantly smooth.
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/joy_1
9. Ythera
Ythera describes her sound as Soul Afro Funk but really it’s that and so much more. Like her debut single Kijana released on Valentine’s Eve 2014 was a unique mix of soul and reggae fused together wonderfully. Ythera is an artist who pushes the boundaries of music by doing the unconventional. Plus she has an incredible voice that is so engrossing. If you love introspective songs with a message, give her music a listen. You won’t be disappointed. Her music can be downloaded on Mdundo.
10. Noni
Noni is an Afro Soul musician with a lovely voice. Her debut song Deeper, is an evocative love song that may take you on an emotional rollercoaster. If you are into mellow tunes Noni is an artist whose music you’ll certainly appreciate.
Limiting this list to ten artists would be limiting IT though. So here are a couple of notable mentions you should check out:
- Kalahi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjO3A1KEI_A&nohtml5=False
Kitunguu can also be downloaded on Mdundo
- Lisa Oduor
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtxnXNqhp5c&nohtml5=False
- Otile Brown
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g-tVMt-FThk
