I can imagine, it’s not easy for a music artist to continuously raise political and social grievances in songs and still remain relevant. Often, people want to feel delighted when listening to music without getting confronted with societal challenges. Eric Wainaina succeeded to play by the rules of the music business and still send his socially relevant messages. In 2001 his song “Nchi Ya Kitu Kidogo” he points out to corruption in Kenya and criticizes the political elite. He produced “Daima” (2008) shortly after the Post-Election violence Kenya 2007/08 and used the song to promote peace.
Eric Wainaina *-* “Nchi Ya Kitu Kidogo“
Eric Wainaina *-* “Daima“
(chorus – translated from Swahili)
“I live, I hope, I sacrifice forever for Kenya,
Surely as the flag is my fortress,
Black is for the people,red is for the blood,
Green is for the land, white is for the peace,
Forever i am Kenyan, a patriotic citizen.”
And here “Twende, Twende“, a nice collaboration with Zimbabwean music legend Oliver Mtukudzi
Eric Wainaina *-* “Twende” (Feat. Oliver Mtukudzi)
jusi I love 