Various artists: 90’s Throwback

In honor of Play Kenya Music and Throwback Thursday we’d like to take you back in time before the major search engines that we use today existed. A time when different crop of musicians dominated the industry.

And while we appreciate the music that is being released today, check out four Kenyan artists who rocked the music scene between the late 70’ and mid 90’s.

#1 Fadhili William

Born in 1938, Fadhili William Mdawida, was a Kenyan musician/composer who is most famous for his song "Malaika" which he recorded with his band 'The Jambo Boys' around 1963.

He started singing while in primary school in Taita and went on to Government African School in Pumwani, Nairobi. It was while at Pumwani that he fell in love with a beautiful girl to whom he composed and recorded Malaika to console her when she was given away to an older man who could pay bride price. The legend died in February 2001. Years active 1955-2001.

#2 Daudi Kabaka

Daudi Kabaka was a singer born in Kenya. The type of music he is known for is called Benga, a popular style in East Africa. His best-known songs include "African Twist" and "Western Shilo".

Kabaka is also known for his Kenyan classic "Harambee Harambee" which largely reflects the aspirations of post-colonial Kenya to build their nation. He was born in 1939 and died in 2001.

#3 Simba Wanyika

Simba Wanyika was a Kenyan based band created in 1971 by Tanzanian brothers Wilson Kinyonga and George Kinyonga, and disbanded in 1994.

Simba Wanyika and its two offshoots, Les Wanyika and Super Wanyika Stars, became some of the most popular bands in Kenya. Simba Wanyika regained its popularity in the mid 1980s, releasing many hits and touring Europe in 1989. The disbanded in 1994, but several offshoots of the band still continue to play.

#4 Orchestra Super Mazembe

Orchestra Super Mazembe was a popular band based in Kenya playing Lingala music. The band had roots in Super Vox, a band formed in 1967 in Zaire. Their biggest hit was "Shauri Yako". Other popular songs included "Samba", "Bwana Nipe Pesa" and "Kassongo". The group was disbanded in 1985.

Download music by the legends directly to your phone for free on Mdundo.
(adapted from Wikipedia)

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