How Muthoni the Drama Queen Paved the Way for Kenyan Women in Music

10 January 2024

[MDQ/Wikipedia]

Written by Pharis Kinyua

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In the intricate tapestry of the Kenyan music scene, Muthoni the Drama Queen (MDQ) has emerged as a trailblazer, boldly challenging stereotypes and breaking barriers in a field often marked by conventional expectations. Her journey, marked by resilience and unwavering determination, sheds light on the shifting perspectives towards Kenyan musicians, especially women, and the evolving landscape of the music industry.

MDQ's path to musical stardom was anything but conventional. Born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya, she was determined to carve her niche in the music industry, even in the face of adversity. The difficulties she faced were emblematic of the obstacles many Kenyan artists encounter, particularly women who are often underestimated and overlooked.

One of the challenges she encountered was the perception that she was "not Kenyan enough." This deeply ingrained stereotype assumed that to be a successful Kenyan musician, one had to fit a particular mold or adhere to a specific set of expectations. MDQ, however, was determined to redefine these limitations and create a space for her unique voice in the industry.

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When asked about the changing perspectives towards Kenyan musicians, especially women, MDQ noted the significant progress within the Kenyan music scene. She highlighted the increasing presence of women across the industry, not just as artists but also in traditionally male roles such as managers, PR professionals, programmers, music pluggers, instrumentalists, and more. The emergence of female DJs, photographers, and music video directors has further contributed to this shift.

MDQ credits platforms like the Blankets & Wine Festival and others for playing a crucial role in expanding music discovery and bringing genres that were once on the fringe closer to the center. These platforms have catalyzed greater awareness, appreciation, and demand for a wider variety of Kenyan music, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse music scene.

Reflecting on the cultural re-awakening that Nairobi has been experiencing since late 2015, MDQ expressed her excitement about the emergence of new genres such as Kenyan alt-R&B, gengetone, and debe. These genres, once on the periphery, are now taking over the airwaves, demonstrating the ever-evolving landscape of Kenyan music.

Festivals, according to MDQ, have played a vital role in bridging the gap between audiences and artists. They provide a platform for audiences to discover female artists and DJs, and the opportunity to experience their talent firsthand. Favorable programming of female artists and DJs at festivals not only empowers women but also offers them a source of income, allowing them to invest in their music careers.

MDQ's influence goes beyond her music; it extends to the very core of empowering women. Her message is clear: she hopes to inspire women to trust their intuition, embrace their authenticity, and forge their own unique paths. She encourages women to build their brands in their image and likeness, take ownership of capital in all its forms, and expand themselves into grounded, ungovernable forces.

In a world where female musicians in Kenya have traditionally been pigeonholed into predefined roles and faced the challenge of being perceived as "not Kenyan enough," Muthoni the Drama Queen stands as a beacon of change.

Her journey represents the shifting landscape of the Kenyan music scene, where women are taking on diverse roles and breaking free from societal expectations. As MDQ continues to break barriers and inspire women to embrace their true selves, her influence on Kenyan music and the empowerment of women is undeniable. Her path is a testament to the evolving narrative of women in the music industry and the transformative power of authenticity.

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How Muthoni the Drama Queen Paved the Way for Kenyan Women in Music

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