The secret to success in life is not giving up. The secret to success in the music industry is continuously improving and sharpening your craft. If you are trying to make it in music and have to rely on or pay producers, it will take you twice the time and money than someone who can produce, mix, and master for themselves. In the music industry globally, artists who are self-produced or can produce, mix, and master have the upper hand. Countless successful artists are self-produced. Some examples include Kanye West, Russ, and J Cole, to mention just a few. Here at home, we also have Kenyan artists who are self-produced, meaning that in addition to being artists who are known and loved, they are also producers for themselves and others. Below is our first list of 5 Kenyan Artists who are self-produced. As new self-produced artists come along, we hope to share new lists.
- Kethan, formerly known as Ethan Muziki, was previously a part of a boy band before starting his career as a solo artist. What many people might not know about Kethan is the fact that he also doubles as a music producer.
- Sabi Wu or Mask, has been making music for several years now. One of the things that stands out the most about Sabi Wu is the fact that he is not just an artist but also a producer. In each of his projects, Sabi Wu has produced the majority of the songs.
- Ras Amor is a member of the group The Babaz and recently released an EP titled Amor. Ras Amor is not just an artist but an excellent producer who has produced entire projects for both Kinoti and Mathai.
- Blinky Bill began his career as a member of Just A Band before starting his solo career. Even in JAB, Blinky produced a lot of the group’s songs. As a producer, Blinky Bill has produced for himself, Octopizzo, and Camp Mulla, to name just a few.
- Petrooz hails from the coastal region of Kenya and has consistently released projects with the most popular being Love Under Construction, which is self-produced.
Other Kenyan artists who are also producers that we did not mention include Blocka Beats, Waithaka & Kanzu. It is also important to note that Female DJs, Coco Em & DJ IV are also producers in addition to being top Deejays in the Kenyan music industry. Fun fact: Boutross is also a producer. At Radio 254, we encourage any artist looking to make it in music to consider learning to produce, as it can be the tool that helps you be successful and stand out in music.
