A Kenyan love song for every season and reason…

Do you find yourself scratching your head when it comes creating a Kenyan love song playlist? Is your go to playlist when it comes to African R&B filled with Nigerian and Tanzanian artists with a smattering of Kenyan songs by Sauti Sol and Nyashinski? Then get ready to deep dive into some good Kenyan music because this is the playlist is for you. Here is music for your wedding, your road trip, your crush or just a super-chill Saturday at home.

Falling deep in love: Aki Wewe by Kwame Rîgîî

Kwame Rîgîî iis the son of the late sculptor and artist Karanja Rîgîî, so it comes as no surprise that he can translate his creativity into such soulful music.  When he performed this Kenyan love song on Churchill Live, he boldly stated that the best people to love are Kenyan women…and let’s just say that by the time he got to the chorus a lot of the women in the audience were fanning themselves. Rîgîî sings mostly in Agikuyu and his songs seek to inspire and uplift.

Shoot your shot: If I Had Your Number by Kaskazini

This song is so upbeat and smooth, sung in English, Kamba, Dholuo and Agikuyu, it’s easy to understand and enjoy. When they sing: “I got your number from your friend Wacera”, you can’t help but smile at the Kenyan-ness of it. It quickly draws the picture of new love and that heady feeling of making that first call to ask your crush out. Give it a listen, you will not be disappointed by this trio.

Parents don’t understand: Kesi Baadae by Nviiri the storyteller

Nviiri the Storyteller straddles that cool urban Nairobi swag with a self-assurance that is captivating. In this Kenyan love song he is asking his girl to not worry about their parents disapproval. He is all about living in the present it seems. The video is just as cool and laid-back.

Love triangle: Taboo by Phy

Phy has such a sweet and chilled vibe about her, I loved her style and her voice is beautiful. The music video to this song really captures a time and place in Nairobi. Featuring the youthful skaters who throng to Kenyatta avenue after dark (before they built those massive sidewalks). I heard this song on radio while in traffic and immediately ‘shazamed‘ . Turns out she has an album called Phylosophy.

Catching feelings: Place and Time by Maya Amolo

As a young Kenyan based in New York, Maya Amolo’s R&B/alternative sounds brings something different yet soulful to the table. On her new album, Leave me at the Pre-Game, Maya explores the complexities of life and love with smooth as cocoa butter vocals. You can check out her latest music on Youtube, Deezer, Apple music.

Forbidden love: Siri by Fena

Fena is a multi-talented artist and you get the feeling that she is just good vibes all round. When she dropped this song, it quickly became a trending topic on Twitter due to the fact that it addresses an LGBTQ relationship. Nina Simone said it best: “‘You can’t help it. An artist’s duty, as far as I’m concerned, is to reflect the times.’ And, Fena does this with finesse.

In the groove of things: Favorite Song by Bensoul

Another one from the Sol Generation, Bensoul is definitely a reggae fan and a part time reggae artist. You can easily pick the influences in his music style and look but he manages to do it without losing his identity and Kenyan vibe. This song is catchy and feel good, and yes indeed, a favourite.

Honeymoon phase: Number 1 by Le Band & Suzziah

Le Band are a quartet with great vocals and they make sure to each shine on their respective verses. Suzziah though, is the star of the show, a vocal powerhouse. She seems like the type of artist who is at home in whatever genre.  The song is an easy listening song made for cruising on a highway.

Wedding song: N’tala Nawe by Bensoul

“N’tala nawe kwenye shida ama kwenye furaha” — “I will lay next to you during bad times or happy times”. This beautifully written song showcases his amazing vocals and guitar playing skills. Probably why he appears twice on this list.

Trouble in paradise: See Me by Xenia Manasseh

I am loving these new female singers gracing us with their fine vocals. Xenia Manasseh is one to watch if her features and singles are anything to go by. She is also a gifted songwriter and has released an EP titled Fallin Apart.

Bonus track:

Heartbreak: Find Us A Way by Mayonde

This hauntingly beautiful track by Mayonde is more than a heartbreak song. Let’s face it, sometimes life is not all fun filled frolicking in daffodil meadows. If you are feeling blue, sentimental, nostalgic for a past that you can’t change? Listen to this and burn some candles while at it.

What song would you add to the list?

Words: Naliaka Wafula