Kenyan Prince of Benga Releases Third Album
When it comes to contemporary Kenyan music, no singer approaches it with a more scholarly attitude than how Dan Aceda does. Nicknamed ‘Chizi’ for his crazily remarkable songwriting skills; Chizi has written songs for great Kenyan artists like Atemi, Eric Wainaina and Kanji Mbugua.
The self-titled Crown Prince of Benga believes that if promoted, archived and done well, benga can once again rise to its one-time standard as an internationally recognized genre coined in Kenya. Together with producers: David Blackman and R-Kay, Chizi has in the past (with albums: “Suluwe” and “Benganology”) stood out at producing a contemporary benga discography.
On his latest and self-produced album titled “Made in Kenya”, the singer continues with the benga streak; setting off on a journey that captures diverse moods across the country while addressing various societal issues. Kicking it off in Western Kenya with the party anthem “Kakamega Express”, Chizi proceeds to the Coast with the energetic “Wale Wale”—fit for a wedding celebration or any kind of merriment.
The smooth and melodic “An Eyo” (Luo for ‘I am on the way’) makes the final stop to Nyanza. The mellow love song “I’m Sorry” featuring Monica is an excellent ballad and collaboration flaunting Chizi’s hand in recording/producing.
He teams up with Jimmi Hope, Amileena, Chemphe and the conscious hip hop artist Kaka Sungura a.k.a Rabbit on the spiritually uplifting “Arise”, a song encouraging African youth to take advantage of present opportunities.
On “Today” Chizi stresses the importance of being ready and taking over life head on, instead of procrastinating. There’s a slap for detractors on “Let Them Say” featuring the honey-voiced Amileena.
This is yet another brilliantly composed album and a creative masterpiece made in Kenya; once again propelling the benga prince to the top of the industry’s most talented and consistent song writers, with a promising future. For those who love authentic Kenyan music with a global outlook; this one is for you.
“Made in Kenya” is available at leading supermarket stores. To listen to the album and more info, visit www.danaceda.co.ke
