Kenya has one of the most dynamic music scenes on the continent. From the ohangla traditions of western Kenya to the afropop and arbantone coming out of Nairobi’s streets, the range is extraordinary. Aipate has been covering Kenyan music since 2015 — artists, albums, live shows, and the culture around them.

Features & Lists

Curated long-reads about the local music scene.

The Nairobi Live Music Circuit

A nightlife-focused guide to the best live music venues in Nairobi right now — from The Alchemist and Muze to Geco Cafe and Dagoz, plus upcoming gigs.

Top Luo Musicians (2025 Edition)

From benga and ohangla to rhumba and Afro-fusion — a guide to the essential Luo musicians and where to start listening.

10 Nairobi Bands to See Live

From jazz ensembles to afro-fusion outfits — the Nairobi bands worth catching at a live show in 2025.

Kenyan Juice: Best Kenyan Songs on Spotify

Aipate’s curated Spotify playlist — a blended selection spanning the many styles that make up the Kenyan sound.

11 New Ohangla Songs to Listen to

Ohangla is one of Kenya’s most vital live music genres. Here are the songs to know right now.

Top Luo Ohangla Artists

The defining voices of ohangla music right now — who they are, what they sound like, and where to start.

Kenyan Music Playlist

Kenyan Artists on Aipate

Some of the Kenyan artists with the most coverage on Aipate:

Nyashinski · Khaligraph Jones · Bien · Nikita Kering’ · Coster Ojwang · Adoyo Afrique · Caleb Awiti · Tetu Shani · Eric Ananda · Prince Indah · Passy Joe · Karun · Fena Gitu · Wanja Wohoro.

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