Artist Spotlight: Steph Kapela, musical genius in the making

Kenya has no shortage of good rappers but there are some who are a cut above the rest take for example one lad who is goes by the name Stephen Nyankuru alias Steph Kapela.

He began his musical journey in 2007 when he flew to the USA to study. Steph returned to Kenya in 2015 and linked up with Atwal Music who is said to have played a big role in getting his name out there.

He later joined Callivan Creatives where he has enjoyed a lot of success which culminated into an Extended Play (EP) titled Step by Step.

Steph Kapella
Steph Kapela

If you’ve listened to any of Steph’s songs then I’m sure you know that he is a musical genius. His style is quite unique and perhaps this is what sets him apart from his fellow rappers.

This chap has a way of infusing singing and rapping in his songs and the outcome is always awesome. To add to that, his vocal skills and ability to play around with words in his lyrics are unmatched.

As you listen to his music, you’ll note the US influence but what I love most about him is that he often incorporates some Sheng and Swahili so that we (Kenyans) don’t feel left out.

If you ask me, it is only a matter of time before the whole country comes to know about him. He is without a sdoubt the next big thing.

Listen to his latest single dubbed Exposure. Enjoy!

Artist Spotlight: Xeniah Manasseh, a Kenyan songstress who is ready for the world stage

I’m so ashamed to say this but the first time I knew Xenia Manasseh or heard her sing was when she was featured by King Kaka in a song titled Dear Stranger which was released in November 2019.

Also read: Why it’s tough being a female musician in Kenya

I know what you are thinking, have I been living under a rock? Absolutely not. It is just that I stumbled on her music by chance and as you know you come across the best things in life when you are not looking for them.

Xeniah Manasseh

Naturally, after hearing how beautiful she sounded on Dear Stranger, I went to look for other songs by her and I was swept off my feet. This lass is not only beautiful but she also has a voice that matches her good looks.

Believe you me, I would listen to Xenia all day and night and repeat her music the next day and the day after that. It’s the kind of music that makes you feel alive and forget about your troubles.

The graduate of Berklee College of music sings from the heart and it is effortless that means if you are a lover of good music, like yours truly, then you will connect with her instantly.

Xeniah Manasseh

I’ve heard a chance to listens to some of her songs including; Don’t Go, When It’s Over, Niambie, See Me and I loved all of them.

A little bird recently told me that she dropped an EP dubbed Fallin Apart and you bet that I am going to look for it so that I can sample the songs that are on it.

If I was you, I would look for her songs too because from where I sit, this lass is destined for greatness. Watch out for Xeniah Manasseh ladies and gentlemen because no one sings Afrosoul like she does.

Watch See Me below and tell us what you think. Enjoy!