Kenyan Hip Hop Heads
New Lister
Robah Mwenyeji
1) Describe Robah Mwenyeji in a statement
It’s hard to summarise who I am into a short statement but I began my music career in Dandora as a solo artist, then later to be joined by zakah then we became a group by the name 'Wenyeji'. I'm an artist who creates and expresses in the world of Hip Hop.
2) Hip Hop Heads and fans loved your Album 'Reflection', how did you achieve it?
I approached this album like a personal project. It was kind of like a therapeutic record. I draw a lot of inspiration from my life and other people's experiences. But usually I just like to pull from my life and what am feeling.
3) What was your creative process in this album?
Approaching this album, I never thought to the point to write for an audience. I just had to explore the craft and use it to try to do a good job. I had to dig deep inside my Soul to find the right words and thoughts.
4) Tell us about the themes you achieved in this album
Some of the most prominent themes covered on the album entail social and political commentary, exploration of identity and self expression, love and family as well as empowerment and resilience.
5) Can you please take us through the collaborative process of the album.
I’ve worked with many artists and producers over the length of my career. They all have significantly aided my creative process and so I had to reach out to them for this project. With regards to producers, I had on board the genius that is Chzn Brain, Ares66, Kdawg and Kunta Official Beats both of Truce Label.
As for the artists, special mention is reserved for the legendary group of Kalamashaka who had their input on the album represented well by Kamaa and Johnny Vigeti. We also had the poetic lyricist in Kitu Sewer bless the album not forgetting my brother Zakah as well. I also had seasoned rappers Romi Swahili, Smallz Lethal, and Kobole on board.
In an effort to bridge the generational music gap, I reached out to the ever soulful Nem R, Dyana Cods and Aliye. For that international appeal we had Zanzolo Uzwi Kantu (South Africa) and Frost (Tanzania).
One surprise artist I was overly emotional featuring on the project was my son Menelik on the song 'Mother's Love' actually one of my favorite tracks.
6) As an artist, has your music evolved?
Yes, because every moment living as an artist gives me a new experience, unlike the one before now. All I can say is that there’s been plenty of highs and lows, but I keep going and reinventing myself through the different projects I've put out so far because it’s what I know my purpose is.
7) How long did the album take?
The album began as a series of singles I had been doing with the various producers over the past two years then they morphed into a fully fledged album.
8) You have featured femcee NemR on the track "Reflection", how did it happen?
I first heard and got acquainted with Nem R through our mutual friend Kunta Official Beats who suggested her to me for our initial single 'Reflection' which later ended up being the name of the album. She's a very talented artist and she currently has a new album out AREA 7 which I implore people to check out.
9) Album creation is a long process, can you share your special moments while working on it?
Like I mentioned earlier, one of the most emotional moments during the creation of this project is featuring my son Menelik. That nearly brought tears to my eyes. I'm so proud of him.
10) What are the challenges faced while creating the album?
Balancing work, family and my music has been one of my biggest challenges but once I got the hang of it I was able to plan on my schedules and balance them all.
Summoning inspiration has also been a challenge, nevertheless I managed to overcome it and here we are with a very great project.
11) How did you want your audience to feel while listening to Reflection?
That you can stay true to yourself and still be appealing. I just want people to have music that can connect with because you never know how it resonates with somebody. If people can listen to my music and get inspired, then I am happy.
12) Has your hometown or culture influenced this album in anyway?
Yes it has. Having relocated to France from my motherland Kenya, I have learned so much from both cultures that have helped me forge this album. The cultural diversity from both sides of the world inspired me to create a canvas for me to paint my reflection on it.
13) Do you have more projects for us this year?
I already have a couple of new projects cooking up and we'll be releasing more singles in the course of this year. Wenyeji is back like they never left.
14) Do you have any Shoutouts as far as Reflection is concerned?
Shout to all the artists and producers who've held me down through this project. Much appreciation goes to my family for being patient and supportive throughout the project. Most of all I thank God for blessing me with this talent and taking me this far.
15) What's the current state of Kenyan Hip-hop?
Hip Hop in Kenya has come a long way thanks to the foundation laid by the likes of Kalamashaka and Ukoo Flani Mau Mau.
We've seen different generations inherit the torch but we still have a long way to go as we still have to impart the basics of the culture to posterity so it doesn't get lost in translation.
I'm just glad that Hip Hop has made it this far from a fad to where it is now. I'm happy we just celebrated 51 years of Hip Hop.
16) Say something to that person listening to you and is less inspired.
You have to believe in yourself more than anybody else even when it seems impossible. Always stay in tune with your inner self because that's where the inspiration is.
17) What's your parting shot?
Stand ten toes on who you are, be authentic and unapologetic about it.
Follow Robah Mwenyeji in social media platforms and subscribe to his YouTube channel. Blessings.
