COUNTRY MUSIC IN KENYA

Country Music in Kenya 

Here is a short interesting read about Country music in Kenya narrated by yours truly

Country music, with its roots in American folk and blues, might seem like an unlikely genre to thrive in Kenya. However, over the decades, it has found a dedicated fan base and even produced local stars who have embraced it. This blog explores the history of country music in Kenya, its evolution, key artists, and its current state in the Kenyan music scene. 

Country music was introduced to Kenya in the mid-20th century, largely through radio broadcasts and records. 

Kenya’s connection to country music was further strengthened by its own folk traditions, which, like country, often revolve around storytelling, love, hardship, and everyday life. The genre resonated with rural audiences, who found similarities between country themes and their own experiences.  

In the 1960s and 1970s, Kenyan musicians began experimenting with country sounds, blending them with local rhythms. Some of the earliest adopters included:  

Many Kenyan bands in the 70s and 80s performed covers of American country hits by artists like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Kenny Rogers.  The rise of dedicated country musicians in Kenya. Bars and clubs in Nairobi, Nakuru, and other towns hosted live country bands, and local artists began writing original country songs with Kenyan themes. Some of the notable country music artists include

--Sir Elvis– Often called the "King of Kenyan Country Music," Sir Elvis (real name Elvis Otieno). He has written songs like Loving Man 

He regularly plays at The venue Bar and Bistro in Karen, Ashaki Grill and Bbq He is backed up by The Urban Cowboys.

 

--Steve Rodgers Wainaina – He is backed up by The Highway band.One of the best country singers in Kenya, gained his fame for amazing Kikuyu translation of popular country music. Mucii ni Kenya. He plays regularly every Sunday evening at Homeland Lounge.

--Sammy Jones – Known for his smooth and deep vocals and emotional ballads.

--Esther Konkara- She is the is one of the first ladies to start singing country music she is known for her amazing Dolly Parton covers. Best of Esther Konkara

--Wythera The-wild flower. She is an amazing vocalist and has done songs like Kagoti ka Maragi, and her recent reply, Toxic love part 2

--Jiana - She is well known for her stage name, 'The Beautiful Girl with the Beautiful Voice'.

Others include Reuben Kigame, Carlos Kiba, Juveh the country Sheriff, Carlos Kiba, Kenny the cowboy, Bobby Jones, Kareh-B, Lisa the Queen of melodies Lisa Interview,Sam Maombi, who has been trending with the song NITAUIMBA, Ken Wakuraya, who is also a famous media personality, Didi Rodgers,Lady C, Savana and Njeri, Collins Creek who have performed amazing duets where their voices blend, making them stand out among many.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in country music, thanks to: Social Media & Streaming. Platforms like YouTube and Spotify have allowed Kenyan country artists to reach new audiences. Best known country Social media managers and Photographers include Carson Frenzy and Michael Japheth   

Country-Themed Events. Events like "Country Nights", Let's Go Country at Shamba Cafe every last Friday of the month, Country roads By Jeff Koinange who is a renowned Media personality in Nairobi, have revived live performances. Country Music cafe hosted by Thee Grandpaa.

In recent times, we have seen Country Radio and TV shows coming to popularity, some of them include Thuthira Ngoro on Inooro TV, Sundowner by KBC, and Kameme Country, Country Ride on TV47 hosted by Joe Mwaura, also known as Joe Krucial.

Well-known DJs in the scene include DJ Rom-Ace, who plays every Friday at Milele Lounge and DJ Stiga.

Dancers have also come up with the likes of Ocean movers from T.U.K The Dancing Cowboy, also known as John Sheriff Knight, always mesmerises the audience with his complex footwork moves.

The Future of Country Music in Kenya.

While country music may never dominate Kenya’s music charts, it remains a beloved niche genre with a loyal following. Its themes of love, struggle, and everyday life continue to resonate, and with new artists experimenting with the sound, Like Samidoh with the song Toxic Love the genre may yet experience a full revival.  

For now, Kenyan country music stands as a testament to the universal power of storytelling through song, whether it comes from Nashville or Nairobi.  

What’s your favorite Kenyan country song?

Where is your country music hangout spot?

Share your thoughts in the comments! 🎶🤠

Follow for More, to know where to find these events, trending stories in the Kenya music scene and more about music in Kenya.

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References:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=989N-MEd5ZQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YgpuNpb-RSI&ab_channel=SirElvis

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h22aXztlaiE&list=PLtF4RBkoQiwrTB1nuyYasNz4-Wdjb5TvV&index=20&ab_channel=TV47Kenya

https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/jeff-kuria/episodes/STEVE-RODGERS-HOW-MY-GRANDMAMA-SUPPORTED-MY-COUNTRY-MUSIC-JOURNEY--WAKINYA-MUCATHA--NDONGOMOTHI-ercn8m

Evans wonderkeys, Jiana, Didi.