By Caroline Nyanga
P: Is it true you are now recording your own compositions instead of ‘korupting’ famous songs?
K: Well, I have recorded two songs with Clemo and RK. One takes a satrical look at the hard times facing the country while the second gives kudos to enterprenuers.
I am also in the process of working on a clip called the Waki List. It hits out at political big wigs who defraud the economy while walking around with fake smiles trying to fool Kenyans that they care.
P: You once caused ripples at State House after releasing a ‘korupt’ version of a ragga song that stung the first lady. How did it end?
The comedian who brought you his "korupt" remixes of famous hits, Kajairo (Peter Kamenyi) |
P: So when should we expect your album to be out?
K: I have no plans of releasing an album soon but I would like to take time to create something unique.
P: Tell us about your yet to be launched televison show?
K: It is still in the process and I haven’t found a station to air it. It combines comedy and job hunting. It is something I came up with while working at Kiss FM and QFM where I now work.
P: There are many locally produced comedy shows currently on air, what makes yours different?
K: The fact that I am able to give the youth tips on the ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ when it comes to getting the right job. I also highlight corporate social responsibility which will help companies hire the right candidate while benefitting from publicity. Finally, unlike most shows, this one is shot as it happens without adding anything extra to spice it up. It is entertaining, informative and empowering.
P: Word has it you no longer do stand-up comedy?
K: People are misguided because I have done a lot of comedy in my television and radio shows. The fact that I am involved in other careers does not mean that I have quit comedy. Let them watch this space!
P: Having been around for a while, what do you think has changed in the local comedy scene?
K: I think the corporate world has finally embraced the fact that comedy plays a vital role in the society. Kenyans have also accepted comedians who had been ignored for long time.
P: You were the youngest contender to vie for the Embakasi seat in 2007 under Orange Democratic Party (ODM), what are some of the lessons you learnt?
K: That most Kenyans living in poverty lack civic education. The fact that most of voters were denied the right information led to a bad situation after the elections.
P: Your agenda about the youth being ripe for leadership apparently hit the wall what were some of the challenges you faced?
K: That tribalism is real. Although Kenyans love their culture without having to hate each other — leaders usually take advantage of them by playing the tribal card. Also the Pesa Mzee factor plays a big role in elections. Imagine trying to convince a guy who earns a meagre Sh40 a day using your words and vision while old big wigs are dishing out Sh500.
P: Did your political ambition burn a hole in your pocket?
K: Not really, the figure cannot be put down in monetary figures. I was assisted by my family, friends and well-wishers who supported my harambee and this covered most of the expenses.
P: What of the newspaper reports that you were bankrupt?
K: Bankrupt? Me, Never! In fact, the statement was a let down because I was not consulted by the writer. I want Kenyans to know that God has been so good to me. I have never lacked food on my table nor fuel. In any case, I have a supporting family.
Contrary to the negative reports my star shone brighter after the campaigns. I had resigned from KISS fM prior to the campaigns and even though they didn’t re-hire me after elections I still got an offer from QFM three days later for a job that pays better.
P: Having failed to secure the seat do you have any regrets?
K: Not at all! It showed me the side of Kenyans we never got to see.This is where you come face to face with Kenyans faced with all kinds of problems.
P: Many radio stations have opted to employ comedians and musicians as presenters irrespective of their credibility, what’s your take on this?
K: It’s true – but whether or not they lack talent or credibility, radio stations are looking for revenue from listernership. I don’t see anything wrong with having comedians or musicians because they are usually paired up with other personalities while hosting shows.
P: There are those who think you play old reggae songs besides campaigning hard on your show?
K: I have been in radio for four years so I have enough experience to know what listeners want to hear. My reggae show that runs from 1 to 5 pm is a must-listen, especially for those who understand and know what good reggae music is all about. It is time haters stopped basing their arguments on hearsay and base their arguments on facts. Nevertheless, the fact that they are complaining is an indication that they are listening to my show.
P: Tell us about your educational background?
K: I attended Bidii and Sawasawa Academy before proceeding to Machakos Boys High School. I later went to Kenyatta University where I pursued a Bachelors degree in Education — specialising in literature and English. I even taught at Moi Girls School (Kabz) for a while.
P: You and your wife recently had a baby boy, how does it feel to be become a father?
K: It’s a blessing from God — and with it comes more responsibilities. I’m more focussed on my work because I know that I’m not alone.
P: What are some of the best and worst moments of your career?
K: The best was when I caused ripples at State House in 2004 with my song. The worst was when I lost an edited footage of the pilot show that had clips of musicians like Nonini, Collo and Mr Lenny. Also the post-election violence made me realise that Kenya needs prayers.
P: What don’t people know about you?
K: That before Kajairo I was in a rap group called MCG — Mystical Ghetto Corez while in KU. We were three of us and often performed during university functions and at Club Vibes.
