Allow God to define you

Anthony Mwangi Kahura, aka Mr T. [Photo:Standard]

 

Anthony Mwangi Kahura, 27, aka Mr T, is the artiste behind the popular song Finje Finje. Although he pursued a degree in Geology, his passion for music prevailed. He spoke to ALLAN OLINGO

What made you get into the music industry?

My passion for music. I had many song ideas, which I recorded in my rhyme books, but could not find a recording studio. I lost hope many times and even burnt all the books, but the ideas kept flooding my mind. I soon realised music was my destiny. Music is also a tool of expression and when good ideas are expressed, lives are changed. I use the art of rap for the gospel ministry because the 21st Century generation is a music generation. Music is the red carpet that ushers me to the pulpit.

 

Why gospel music as opposed to secular?

Music is a product of your surrounding and out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. I am born again and my mind and heart are full of Jesus, so I have no option but to sing what is in me.

 

What are the challenges you have faced in doing your music?

Low self-esteem was a challenge, but I managed to work on it. Having grown up in Narok, I felt people from Nairobi and other towns were better than me. My esteem was affected and my perspective of music was narrow and limited to the village setting and not the world.  That has since changed and I now know anyone can be whatever they decide to be.

How did you overcome your low self-esteem?

Passion and talent will always locate and position you. I decided to listen to another voice other than the voice of reason and that was the voice of the Word of God. I realised greatness is not born in the palace, so I changed my perspective and decided to take the bull by the horns. In the Bible, Job said: “Naked we came and naked we shall return.” I, therefore, had to convince myself that I had no power to change my background, but I could change my future.

Any low moments?

There is a particular one I cannot forget. It was when a young millionaire saw me performing and promised to promote me by paying all my production bills. This was a ‘hallelujah’ moment. I was a First Year in campus and I gave out everything, including my clothes, only for the guy to go silent. Starting life afresh was very difficult. I faced humiliation from my friends since they were waiting to see what would come out of me. I could not get my clothes back so I survived with a pair of jeans and an Arsenal T-shirt for a whole semester. But the lesson to me was: Cursed is the man who lays his trust in men.

How supportive have your parents been?

My dad believes in education, so he made sure I went to campus, pursued a degree and it was only after completing the degree that he was willing to allow me to do music. My mum was my fan since I started rapping, but her big question was when this music will start paying, since she kept supporting me without any returns. Otherwise, they have been supportive

 

Most of this music generation  would love to get into music but  they do not know how to record.
How did you do it?

I used to work with Cedo before I decided to shop for another studio. I am currently signed at Link Global International and I am settled. The company is managing all my recordings, video shoots and marketing.

What songs do you boast of?

The song that brought me to the limelight was Finje Finje and Hitho, featuring Allan Aaron. I do not have an album yet, but I have two mix tapes — the Finje Finje mix tape and the Apostle Meets the Prophet, which is a combination of hip-hop and dance hall.

Where did you go to high school?

I went to St Josephs Junior Seminary in Molo and it was great. Just like many people, I also have fond high school memories. I joined the University of Nairobi in 2006 where I graduated a degree in Geology.

Who are your role models?

My greatest role model is my lord and saviour Jesus Christ. I try as much as possible to follow in his steps. I admire Rev Terressiah Wairimu because of her consistency in ministry. I also look up to Mr Googz, who walked with me when I was starting my career in music.

Do you have words of encouragement to those interested in this career path?

The mirror gives a perfect reflection, not of what we see, but what we think we see. Some people see a failure in them, while others see a great person with a purpose and destiny to fulfil. Allow God to define you or otherwise the baker, the devil, will describe and destroy you.

Many young people do not take their education seriously, choosing instead to pursue their talents. What would you tell such people?

Education is key. A close look at all musicians will reveal that all of us took our education seriously. Sometimes it may seem like you are falling behind in your dream path, but that’s where the main pillar of you life is. Music will always be there; it has no time limits, so never take your education for granted.

What do you do apart from music?

I am also an actor and a stand-up comedian. I am currently doing stand-up shows with the LOL crew, which airs in a local television.