We get up close with Tetu Shani, an award-winning singer-songwriter from Kenya who currently describes his sound as a blend of indie rock, Afro-pop and folkloric. Read about his grand plans for 2019 and what his dream line-up for an international music festival would look like.
- How would you describe your music?
I would describe my music as Global Mashakura. There’s a little bit of everything in it!
- Top 3 predictions for talent that will hit it big in 2019 (either songs or musicians).
Charisma (formerly of the band Le Band) will be a success this year. He has amazing stage presence, good songwriting ability, and a great voice. This will be my year so I’m going to throw myself on this list. I’m at a place where I’ve found a great producer, good connections and a lot of luck. Kaskazini are also in a position to really blow up this year.
- What are the top 5 songs on your iPod or listening list?
Currently on my playlist is “Should have known better” by Sufjan Stevens, “Balance” by Jason Kalinga, “Surrender” by Mr. Eazi, “Probably for Lovers” by Just a Band and “Me and my friends” by James Vincent McMorrow.
- What is the main piece of advice you’d give an upcoming African artist?
See yourself as a business and a brand if you want to make a living from music.
- Who would feature on your dream line-up in an international music festival?
Asa, Blinky Bill, Coldplay, Tank, The Roots and the Bangas etc. They are too many to mention.
- What’s the biggest challenge facing the creative industry right now?
This would be the assumption that there is a shortage of good Kenyan music. There’s amazing music. You just won’t find it on the radio.
- What is your next big project? What does 2019 look like for you?
2019 is a big year! I’ll be kicking it off with a massive single called AfricaSun that is one of my projects that I’m most proud of. Later in the year, I’ll also be dropping my debut album called Heartbreak Amnesia (fingers crossed).
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