Meet 4 Veteran Music Producers Who Shaped the Kenyan Music Industry

By Omondi Otieno

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Over the past two decades, the Kenyan music industry has undergone tremendous growth, and is currently one of the most vibrant in the African continent.

Over the years, several artistes have worked hard to bless us with massive tunes, that have put the country on the global map.

However, when their songs go viral, credit is always given to the musicians, forgetting the many people who worked behind the scene to make the song great.

One of the key components of a great song is the beat, and this is the work of the producer.

This article looks at some of the best music producers that dominated the Kenyan music scene in the late 90s and early 2000s.

1. Tedd Josiah

It is an injustice to talk about the Kenyan music industry without mentioning renowned producer Tedd Josiah. Most of the artistes that dominated in the airwaves back then passed through his hands. LHe worked with; Nameless, Gidi Gidi Maji Maji, Atemi,  Hardstone, Kalamashaka, Necessary Noize among other artistes. He is the brain behind hits songs such as; Atoti, Unbwogabble and Mega Rider.

2. Clemmo of Calif Records

Clemmo is the founder of Calif record, and one of the brains behind the Genge music genre. He is credited with producing top hits for; Juacali, Nonini, Mejja, Jimwat, Pilipili, Flexx and the late Lady S among others. All the artistes named above, were very influential, and mentored hundreds of artistes that we are listening to today.

Back then, in every ten hits, at least 4 were from Calif and had the popular soundtrack ‘Beat ya Clemmo’. It is important to note that Clemmo produced top hits with very limited equipment at his disposal.

3. Lucas of Ogopa Deejays

You cannot talk about Kenyan music without mentioning Ogopa deejays. The production company injected new blood to the Kenyan music industry. The main producer was Lucasd Bikedo, and he is credited for making several superstars including; the late E-Sir, Nameless, Bigpin, Redsan,Chameleon, Bebe Cool, the late Krupt, Amani, Colonel Mustafa, Kenzo among others.

Ogopa deejays came up with an upbeat vibe that changed the music scene, and created massive competition. Back then, Ogopa’s main rival was Calif records, with Tedd Josiah also causing massive headache for the two outfits.

4. Eric Musyoka

He debuted the music scene in 1997 and has been around ever since.  He has worked with several artistes including; Prezzo, Just a Band, Nameless, Nonini, Ukoo Flani, AY, Wyre, Nikki among others.

Musyoka has been a mentor to many, with one of his main achievement being nurturing P-Unit to become of Kenya’s best music groups. He currently runs Decimal music production company that is still blessing us with massive hits.

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