From “254” to “TWENDE”, rising Kenyan rapper, singer, songwriter and producer Komanii proudly wears his Kenyan identity. “I feared never being accepted in Kenya, but it’s warming to know that the love [is there],” Komanii says. These songs are not songs alone but cultural reference points that incorporate Swahili lyrics that reflect pride, resilience, and identity.
Back To You – From the Studio to the Dancefloor
The Kenya-born, UK-based artist’s new single, “Back To You,” was two years in the making before seeing daylight. “It’s a summertime self-love anthem,” he explains. “I merged a dance-funk kick drum with a growling bass line and lush chords to create that summery feeling.” It’s a genre-bending product that bears the hallmarks of his signature emotive storytelling. “Back To You” is featured on Komanii’s newest EP, Last Days of Summer (Hivi Records) which was released on August 8th.
A Self-Made Creative
As a songwriter and producer, Komanii has complete control over his music. “When I began recording, I learned how to produce on my own,” he explains. “As self-sufficient as that was, that allowed me to create exactly what I needed to create.” Extending his creative universe outside of music, Komanii now creates modern African attire and his own merchandise. “Fashion is another language for me,” he tells us. “That’s how I communicate my culture and personality visually.”
A Foundation for the Future
“Back To You,” “HURRA”, 254 and “Last Days of Summer” offer a sneak peak into Komanii’s world. ”Those songs are like an intro,” he explains. “They tell you who I am, where I’m from, and what I’m about. The big picture is yet to be seen… and that’s when it gets exciting.”
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