Nyashinski

Kenyan rapper and singer Nyashinski became famous as a member of the influential, award-winning hip-hop trio Kleptomaniax before successfully launching his solo career during the 2010s. His 2020 full-length Lucky You demonstrated his lyrical skills and songwriting talents, encompassing lighter, more uplifting songs as well as aggressive street tracks. Nyashinski (Nyamari Ongegu) formed Kleptomaniax with Roba (Robert Manyasa) and Collo (Collins Majale) in 1999, when the trio were students at the Nairobi School. The group signed to the Ogopa DJ's label and released debut single "Freak It" in 2002. Performing in a style called kapuka, blending rap with dance-pop, the trio became highly popular, winning accolades from the Chat Awards and Kisima Music Awards. Their biggest hit was 2004's "Tuendelee," a response to those who criticized their sound for being too commercial. Kleptomaniax released their debut album, M4E, in 2005, and were nominated Best African Act at the same year's MTV Europe Music Awards. The group toured the United States two years later. Following 2009's NITT, the three musicians focused on their solo careers. Nyashinski returned in 2016, releasing a string of hit singles such as the gospel-inspired "Mungu Pekee" and the romantic ballad "Malaika." Subsequent tracks such as 2019's "Marathon Runner" blended modern Afro-pop and hip-hop influences, maintaining an optimistic, confident outlook. Preceded by a virtual concert that was streamed online, Nyashinski released his debut solo album, Lucky You, in April of 2020. ~ Paul Simpson