DK Kwenye Beat aiming for the stars

Being nominated for three nominations for the 2013 Gospel Groove Awards, to be held June 1, is no mean feat. 21-year-old, DAVID KILONZO, popularly referred to as DK Kwenye Beat, however, makes it look easy. SHEILA KIMANI caught up with him

Congratulations on your impressive Groove nominations! Did you anticipate them?

It was quite unexpected. When I made the submissions, I only hoped for the for the best. Now all I am hoping for is that the nominations transform into wins.

Who do you think is your greatest competition for the awards?

Having been nominated for three categories in Male Artiste of the Year, Song of the Year and Video of the Year awards, I have to admit the toughest competition comes from Jimmy Gait in the Male Artiste of the Year category.

So who is DK Kwenye beat?

DK is a gospel musician doing his level best to carve his niche in the gospel industry.

Allow us into your daily schedule?

I am often up by 7 am. I quickly fix up a light breakfast, then I am off to the office where I get to eat well enough to compensate for the light meal I had at home. After a long day in the office I catch up with my friends, grab dinner then leave for home.

Tell us about your background?

I was born and raised in Kayole Estate Nairobi, and I am the firstborn with a younger brother in Class Two. I attended Upper Hill High School for my secondary school education and despite being rebellious, I completed high school, reformed and then I joined the industry and majored in gospel music.

How has the journey been so far?

Honestly, it has not been easy. There have been times when I wanted to give up and let go but by God’s sufficient grace, I was able to patiently hold on. I must admit, however, that keeping the right networks has immensely helped me grow in this industry.

So what challenges have you conquered so far?

For an artiste in a constantly changing industry like music, each day is a challenge. I have had to deal with the pressure to deliver in order to remain relevant in the industry, and still impress my fans. So far, I have crossed the first hurdle, and I am glad to have my music still topping the charts.

Where do you draw inspiration?

Most of my inspiration is drawn when I am in solitude, especially when deep in prayer. It is, definitely, during those quiet times that I get to search within me, and come up with ideas that also leave me awed.

When you are not doing music you are...

Mentoring my younger brother, hanging out with my friends, or helping other gospel artistes in their projects such as video shoots. We also have an office at the Anniversary Towers where I am often found.

You just mentioned ‘friends’…any girlfriend?

Yes, of course. She is top on my list of friends because she is more than a confidant to me. In fact, if you spot me, she is bound to be around.

How does your younger brother handle your fame?

For starters, he is quite young to understand my hustle. He, nonetheless, definitely brings home the compliments from his mates who appreciate my music.

Did you come up with Furi Furi dance?

Yes I did. I then invited Jimmy Gait, so we could do the collaboration together, and let me say I was honoured by the massive airplay as well as the many lives it touched.

 

Isn’t Sari Sari the equivalent of Furi Furi?

While many people would reason like that, the only reason the names are almost similar is because both these songs were meant to be dance songs. They are the kind of songs that will leave you humming to the catchy chorus like Sari Sari.

How do you come up with these song titles?

I relate my song titles to real life experience. Sari Sari, for instance, is short for satisfaction. It means I am satisfied with God’s providence upon my life. Anyone, therefore, who relates to my testimony loves the song and gets blessed.

Who choreographs the dance moves in your videos?

I normally have the dance move concept in mind. I then conduct auditions for a dance crew. The crew that impresses me the most gets a chance to be the dance move ambassadors.

Have you had mentors in your career?

Yes, I have. My mom is my ultimate mentor since she gave me a Christian background. Alemba mentored me musically, while Jimmy Gait taught me strategies of promoting my music. DJ Mo, on the other hand, has been vocal in promoting my music.

How do you unwind?

I enjoy swimming and you will likely spot me enjoying a dip at Splash Water World, or at Karen Holiday, when I want little privacy. I also love taking out of town road trips with friends as well as doing research on music trends.

Your holiday destination of choice would have to be?

I love exotic destinations, especially those along the beaches. My destination of choice, therefore, would probably be on a private beach at Kenya Coast where you can enjoy nature and serenity at its best.

Your greatest achievements so far...

Besides being an award-winning artiste, it makes me proud to see that I have won souls to Christ through ministry.