Genge Revolution.

With every revolution there at times is a counter revolution.

The Genge music genre has boasted a large following both in Kenya and Abroad. Before the rise of genge/kapuka, the Kenyan youth seemed so hypnotized by African-American hip hop but eventually they began to adopt the Hip Hop genre to share their world view on their own terms.

Now there is a slow revolution within Genge circles. These revolutionaries as well as artists are tired of listening to the same beat, same track and same bling bling talk. The new revolutionaries are more socially conscious, thoughtful, creative and eloquent.

“Lalalala” by Manjeru is a good example of a revolutionary love song that is so sweet, and creative. This song lacks the trademark misogyny and and bragging that some artists are well known for.

I am absolutely into STL’s style. Stella Mwangi (STL) has managed to rise above the throng. One of these days, I am going to dedicate a whole entry to talking about her music and talent. Her music speaks for itself.

So what is the future of genge and kapuka? I wish I knew. What I know is that redundancy could plague these two genres resulting in people loosing interest and going back to American Hip Hop.

Indiginas & STL

Many of us have had the sad and unfortunate experience of trying to make a good impression on a lady or guy we have just meet. The Kenyan genge artist Indiginas articulates this frustration in his hilarious video called Binti.

I must say that occasionally, I love it when an artist is not afraid to be honest and funny at the same time. Believe me, this is no easy task. Indiginas even does not hesitate to jump in front of the camera and act out being lengwad (ignored) by a girl at a bar. I highly recommend this video if all you want to do is reminisce and just laugh.

Chances are you can relate.

The sleek lyricist/artist, STL (Stella Mwangi) on the other hand has a thoughtful video called “Makelele” which is a thoughtful and touching video that forces us to step back and reflect on the state of the Jamhuri ya Kenya.

I am amazed by her range and creativity. My suspicion is that the video is in response to the violence in Kenya that was ignited by flat out utotology, tribalism and hate.

Maze, I know that this was a mouthful. Thanks for reading. I hope you enjoyed it.

Don’t forget to check out my genge.wear STORE. Thanks!