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Akoth Jumadi’s music explores themes of love, healing, spiritual emancipation, political liberation and cultural integration in the arts. She started playing at Maseno University in Kisumu, when a friend gave her a subtle nudge by gifting her a guitar. Under the tutelage of a veteran guitarist, she started her journey as a musician. Over time an urge to explore more forms of musicality, she taught herself bass guitar to express her love for funk and jazz, inspired by Esperanza Spalding and her Luo roots called her to the nyatiti, an 8-stringed Luo lute that is traditionally only played by men. Under the guidance of Ati Sanaa, another female nyatiti player, Jumadi took steps that her grandfather had traced many years (he was a nyatiti player).In this interview, we dissect Akoth’s first EP ‘Ere Yo’ (2020) and her first full length album ‘Yo Ni Ka’ (2022). Both the records are a collection of Akoth Jumadi’s experiences growing up, learning about herself and reflecting through her environment.#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #AkothJumadi #Kenya Season 4 Eps 16Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

Liboi is a Nairobi-based singer-songwriter who uses her creative ability to express human experience, question humanity and improve the well-being of the deprived in the society. It’s funny because at the start of this interview, I am almost conned on phone and she immmediately picks on the con and tells me, “Put down the phone. You are just about to be conned.” It’s almost her second nature how fast she is able to decipher what’s happening.Liboi is a strong proponent for social change, culture and mental awareness. In fact, in this interview she talks about her own struggle with mental issues. “It’s normal”, she says. Her music blends traditional and popular African genres, she this she dubs African Contemporary Music. She is also a lover of percussions, and plays Kalimba and Duduk.Through her music, Liboi has been able to embrace diverse themes from hope, mental health, life, love, patriotism, tribalism, peace, immigration and social ills. She has two EPS: ‘State of Being’ (2022) and ‘Safari’ (2023). Make sure you listen to her music.#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #Liboi #Kenya Season 4 Eps 15Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

Bakhita is a multi-disciplinary Kenyan artist who vividly delves into descriptive sentences aimed at tugging all of your senses and scopes into perspective through a symphony of Urban Jazz, Afro Funk, and Neo Soul. Their tone is husky and bright as they dominate multiple key ranges.In this interview, Bakhita expounds on how they use their vocals, visual art, set and conceptual design, to create art. Their art is heavily influenced by their introspective nature, concerned about understanding the self, behavior and emotion; synonymously layered with reflective and insightful undertones, interweaving and borrowing from the muse of nature in the Kenyan Climate. Bakhita also creates Afro Surrealist universes that challenge biased and discriminatory systems that affect marginalized communities: African women, LGBTQ+, sexual abuse victims, and mental health victims. Their message of light, rebirth and societal change enchants and inspires various consumers and creatives alike.Their discography includes Chamo Mile: PYE (2020) and ‘Purge’ (2021). Link to stream Bakhita’s new single: https://orcd.co/aftertwo_bakhita#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #Bakhita #Kenya Season 4 Eps 14Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

Kenyan pianist, keyboardist, composer and producer Aaron Rimbui is among the most well-known and respected figures in East African Jazz. However he's not your typical jazz artist but a master at improvisation in a class of his own.In this interview, the trailblazer who has shaped and elevated the jazz scene in East Africa for the past 20 years with his unique blend of jazz piano and African rhythms, looks back at his illustrious career and major moves that have brought him to this part of his career. Interestingly, he's still thriving on taking risks and isn't afraid to start over in new territories. Rimbui is now based out of New York City and continues to work as a music and artistic director, bandleader, festival curator, radio host, recording artist and most notably a refined live performer who has shared his incredible talent before international audiences.Aaron has released 5 albums including the acclaimed 'Bald Men Love Better' with Bien-Aime Baraza of Sauti Sol. He is the winner of the 2018 Mzantsi Jazz Award for Best International Collaboration Album for his album, 'Kwetu'. Rimbui has performed across the globe in northern Europe, in over 40 U.S states and throughout the African continent having opened concerts for the legendary Hugh Masekela, Grammy Award winner Richard Bona, and shared the stage with Bobi Wine and Tiwa Savage. He’s also been featured in Kirk Whalum’s global collaboration Humanité and in Spike Lee’s Netflix series She’s Gotta Have It.Rimbui’s mission to cultivate and grow recognition for African Jazz is seen in his extensive history of bringing together jazz musicians whether it be for his albums 'Deeper' and 'Kwetu' or curating unforgettable live performances at numerous jazz festivals over the years.Stream 'Bald Men Love Better' via https://ingroov.es/bald-men-love-better-8qp-x#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #AaronRimbui #Kenya Season 4 Eps 13Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

June Gachui is one of Kenya’s most sought-after entertainers, she sings, acts both on screen and on stage, offers bilingual MC and hosting services.It has been said that the one thing that distinguishes June Gachui from most of her peers is the truth in her performance; June performs with her entire being, with soul, and doesn’t hold anything back when she is on stage. Those who have listened to and watched her perform can attest to that. But it’s not just her performance but her dedication to providing worthy platforms for other artists, her flair in anything she puts her business muscle to, including Intellectual Property via JGIP Consultants. June’s first album ‘Twenty Years’ came out in 2017. She’s currently working on her upcoming EP. There’s a lot to enjoy, and learn from our interview. Check it out today! Stream her music via https://junegachui.com/#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #JuneGachui #Kenya Season 4 Eps 12Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

Ugandan songstress Pia Pounds has been hustling for much longer than you may think, starting off her independence at the age of 15. She however, had been singing and pursuing a music career for much longer and says she always knew that music was her destiny. She's a lover of mashing up sounds of R&B and Afrobeats and says she's recently obsessed with everything African. In this interview we discuss the fame that came with the success of her single "Tupaate" (which was featured on Netflix series Young, Famous & African) and her love for her fans, craft and the hustle.Stream Pia's music via https://li.sten.to/piapounds #VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #PiaPounds #Uganda Season 4 Eps 11Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

Rwandese singer-songwriter Ariel Wayz started singing at the age of four, explains why she’s got an old soul and such a mature voice for someone born in 2000. She is the fifth child in a family of eight and somehow being a middle child exposed her to many responsibilities at a young age. Her mother sung in Rwanda’s Orchestre Ingeri during the 1990s. This, studying music at Nyundo School of Music and a host of other inspiring women in music lead her to not only take a career in music but be bold while at it.In this interview, she talks about what inspired her bold debut in the EP ‘Love & Lust’, working with various artists and producers including Umoja Sounds, Ayo Rash, Prince Kizz and Bob Pro. We also talk about crazy things her fans do and how she took back her power after being body-shamed after a nude EP cover. Ariel Wayz is currently working on the release of her debut album, I can’t wait.#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #ArielWayz Season 4 Eps 10Stream her music via vyd.co/WowegusaSubscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

Tanzanian rapper Rosa Ree has been on top of her game from the onset of her career. Nearly 10 years later, she’s made a name for herself thanks to her skill and consistency. In fact, this interview comes off the bat of Rosa Ree being profiled by The Recording Academy among Africa’s Top 10 Female Rappers but don’t get me wrong I’ve been down for Rosa Ree right from 2016 when she was introduced into the music industry via Tanzania’s The Industry record label - by Navy Kenzo. In 2018 Rosa Ree was part of Castle Lite’s UNITY campaign which had a project featuring Queen Latifa, Rouge (Congo), Moozlie, Gigi Lamayne (South Africa) and Mz Kiss (Nigeria). We talked about this, having an exciting career yet tough and challenging one, her love for charity and advocacy around mental health plus the music! She’s one of Africa’s best rappers, best believe!#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #RosaRee Season 4 Eps 9Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

Angela Mwandanda is a Kenyan professional actor, singer and voice-over artist who began performing 20 years ago. As an actor, Angela has featured on TV shows, and several stage musicals. At 19, Angela attended her first audition at the then Phoenix Players, East Africa's most reputable theatre that nurtured a lot of raw talent in those days. It is right here that she met Angela Ndambuki and Debbie Asila - the trio ended up starting Tatuu, one of Kenya’s most famous girl groups who were pioneers and show stoppers in many ways.In this interview, she recalls becoming famous at a young age, a period when Tatuu was dancing back up for Nameless, and how the young girls navigated the industry forming a life-long sisterhood and camaraderie, even though their group is now defunct.When not performing, recording or acting, Angela contributes to the performing arts as the National Coordinator for The Recording Industry of Kenya, RIKE. RIKE aims to promote the collective interests of producers of sound recordings in the country. She also offers consultancy services in Business Development and Marketing for the Kenyan film industry.What a trailblazer!#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #AngieMwandanda #AngelaMwandanda Season 4 Eps 8For more on RIKE, please visit www.rike.or.keSubscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

Just like his name suggests Nvirii The Storyteller, Nviiri’s songs tell a multitude of stories with layers surrounding everyday relatable issues like love, loss, heartbreak, romance, debauchery, conflict, reconciliation and growth in different life spheres and dimensions. The Kenyan-Ugandan singer-songwriter came to fame after his signing to Sauti Sol’s record label Sol Generation Records in 2019.In 2023, Nviiri released his anticipated first album ‘Inside Out’ that follows his successful EP Kitenge (2021). This interview comes just in time for a new era of his career – the ending of his contract with Sol Generations (2024). We both look back at Nviiri’s come up and future plans, while celebrating the wins and moments that made him one of Kenya’s biggest and most beloved pop artists of this decade.Nvirii The Storyteller is a highly-talented singer and songwriter who has penned multiple hits not just for himself but for artists like Sauti Sol, Savara, Charisma, King Kaka and TheOnlyRosa. His voice, guitar skills and live performances are to reckon.#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #Nviiri #NviiriTheStoryTeller Season 4 Eps 7For more on Nviiri stream: https://africori.to/InsideOutSubscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

Nairobi-based DJ and producer Coco EM is no stranger to the taking over dance floors at home and across the globe; from Boiler Room Nairobi, Spotify Colors Nairobi event, Nyege Nyege, Uganda, Nuits d’Afrique in Montreal to Trans Musicales in Rennes, France.Her self-produced debut EP ‘Kilumi’ (Kamba for sacred drum songs and dance) released in 2022, features Kenyan acts: MC Sharon, Wuod Baba, Ndunge wa Kalele, Sisian & Kasiva, Janice Iche and Ladbi Ommes. ‘Kilumi’ is a reflection of Coco Em’s love for percussions and varied African sounds from all eras and genres.In this interview, she shares more about ‘Kilumi’ and her own learnings from planning and touring internationally. Her electrifying mixes that sail through afro house, kuduro, lingala, hip-hop, R&B and more, continue to impress crowds across the globe.#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #CocoEm Season 4 Eps 6For more on Coco Em: https://linktr.ee/cocoemSubscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotvFor more on Coco Em: https://linktr.ee/cocoem

Born in Nairobi and hailing from the Nilotic tribes of Kenya, Adelaide singer, rapper, and producer Elsy Wameyo embraces her cultural heritage through her 2022 groundbreaking EP 'Nilotic' and will continue on the journey this year with the release of her LP 'Saint Sinner' - scheduled for release later on in the year. "Sinner" and "Piny Lara" singles have already been released as a lead up to this anticipated project.Her soulful rhythms and impressive production lay the foundation for energetic and insightful lyrics, which pose questions to current societal boundaries and perceptions. Self-producing her own work and exploring new production techniques has led Elsy Wameyo to find her own style and control in sonic direction. This approach compliments a fusion of gospel and traditional sacred sounds that shape Elsy’s musical vision, alongside a force of contemporary hip-hop and R&B influences.Previously, Elsy has shared stages with artists such as Sampa the Great, Genesis Owusu, Ruel and Adrian Eagle. She adds to this with previous festival appearances at Groovin’ The Moo, St Jerome's Laneway Festival, and her hometown Adelaide’s WOMAD. Most recently, Elsy took her 7-piece band to Strawberry Fields, followed by a special VIVID LIVE show alongside Mo’Ju and two special debut appearances at Dark Mofo. She finished her debut tour whilst also touring nationally with the Hilltop Hoods.Her forthcoming album ‘Saint Sinner’ is a story of redemption, a search for discipline and meaning in a world seemingly devoid of it ...#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #ElsyWameyo Season 4 Eps 5For more on Elsy Wameyo https://www.elsywameyo.com/Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

Wandiri Karimi is an established Kenyan an artist, guitarist, composer and music executive. She has had many lives in the entertainment and an illustrious career, that keeps unfolding, in music industry and in IP Law. From 2016 – 2022 she worked as a director of Kenya Conservatoire of Music.In 2016 she founded African Women's Orchestra with a vision to create a safe space for women to perform and learn with, and from each other. Over the years, women from all walks of life and in all stages of life have shared one stage. Wandiri asserts that from the past editions (March 2017, March 2018, March 2019, March 2020, March 2021, March 2022 and March 2023), it is evident that there is a need for diversification of activities and platforms for women to express themselves. The 2024 edition themed Get Out! (Out Up Through) will once again feature concert weekends, workshops and masterclasses.“The value and respect of women in the society needs diverse forums to re-invent and redirect societal perspectives on what women do, or can do in changing the world. Long term plans to ensure that women in the creative and cultural space have a sustainable and fulfilling career in the creative and cultural industries is also paramount”— African Women's Orchestra.#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #WandiriKarimi Season 4 Eps 4Get more info on venues, ticketing and dates via www.africanwomensorchestra.orgSubscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

An opportunity arises to meet Tina Ardor who I have saved on my phone as Christina DJ when she calls me to book an interview on my podcast for DJ Sbu. This would be a few weeks before her collaboration with DJ Sbu “I’ll Be There”- a mesmerizing Deep House drops. It’s only until she comes to the interview is when I realize that Christina the DJ is Tina Ardor. Somehow, she manages to keep it on the low keep despite the fact that the inner workings are making a ripple effect in the industry – all way from Kenya, South Africa and to the world.I have to have her on the podcast – I tell myself and she’s not an easy one to pin down because she’s assertive, knows what she wants but is shy when it comes to interviews and self-promotion. Glad VIP ACCESS got the access.Tina Ardor is a singer, songwriter, composer and DJ based in Nairobi, Kenya. Music has always been an integral part of her life since childhood, and performance through song and dance an innate gift. Tina Ardor draws great inspiration in her creativity from the linguistic diversity of cultural groups and Kenya’s 44 tribes. Feeding off the African spirit, Tina Ardor has collaborated with different artists/producers from around the world on various musical works. She recently teamed up with her siblings MGM Kenya (DJ/Producer) and Gabriel (UI/UX designer) to launch MIGATI Music, a new record label based in Kenya, curated by the sibling trio. #VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #TinaArdor Season 4 Eps 3Stream Tina Ardor's music here: https://linktr.ee/tina_ardorSubscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv 

Part 2 of my interview with South Africa's DJ Sbu of “Lengoma” hit song that featured the late Zahara. DJ Sbu shares extensively how he has navigated life and work as a DJ, radio, podcaster, entrepreneur and media owner.He always encourages younger artists and the youth to work smart at building solid foundations and lasting brands. Sbu is almost ready to release a new album – enjoy part 1 of our interview. Part 2 is coming next week …[This episode was recorded before Zahara's untimely passing - we send our condolences to her family and the SA industry].#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #DJSbu Season 4 Eps 2Stream DJ Sbu's music here: https://linktr.ee/djsbuSubscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKOAnyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotvAnyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv