Kenyan musician Matt Ngesa has released his debut album, For the Road, a nine-track project exploring family, friendship, love and the experiences that shape personal growth.
The album, which brings together four years of writing and reflection, draws inspiration from the people closest to the singer and the importance of nurturing relationships as life unfolds.
Its origins date back to the Covid-19 pandemic, when Ngesa's parents contracted the virus, leaving him worried about their health. During that uncertain period, he wrote four songs, Muse, August, Kintsugi and Bright, which would later form the foundation of the project.
The experience prompted a deeper appreciation of family and friends, a theme that runs through the album.
At the centre of the project is August, whose message, “Do what you love, with who you love, for who you love,” captures the album's emphasis on the people who give life meaning.
Rather than focusing solely on romantic relationships, For the Road explores the bonds that influence identity, shape decisions and offer support through different stages of life.
The album features nine tracks: Enough, Bright, When She Calls, August, Muse, Tea, 2am, Hearts on the Ceiling and Kintsugi, featuring Joy Ocholla.
Born in Kenya and raised between Uganda and the United States, Ngesa draws on his experiences across different places and cultures to shape his music. His sound blends elements of indie pop, rock and soul, with an emphasis on personal storytelling, expansive melodies and live instrumentation.
He first developed his musical voice in Soul Mind Scars, a band he formed with his sister, before pursuing a solo career. His earlier releases include the EP Rem Me, featuring Problems and Twende Kazi, as well as singles Oh Shoot, River and Muse. The latter earned him a performance on COLORS, a platform known for showcasing emerging musical talent.
He later collaborated with Itha and Clark Keeng on the EP Let's Draw and featured on Muthaka's song masala tea.
With For the Road, Ngesa brings together experiences and relationships that have shaped his journey so far, inviting listeners to reflect on the people they value and the memories they carry forward.