17/01/2016
Murang'a Legends: MUSAIMO
Unlike many local artistes, Simon Kihara, popularly known as Musaimo Wa Njeri has remained consistent for the last three decades.
For the better part of the 1980s Musaimo’s super vocals were a signature tune in most music stores and in the only broadcasting station VOK (now KBC). He recorded nearly 200 songs and etched his status as a Kikuyu music legend who touched many East Africans’ hearts with his high definition classic hits such as My Dear Kwaheri.
Although the younger generation may not be familiar with him, those who grew up in the 80s will recall that he was a force to reckon with as far as Kikuyu classic music goes.
In fact it was impossible to mention the local music scene without mentioning his name. No wonder most of his popular hits, including My Dear Kwaheri, Chai wa 14 and Kanyenya–Ini, among others, were synonymous with local charts on KBC radio and television shows.
But despite his immense success Musaimo has kept a low profile leading some to suggest he may have quit music for another career.
The musician agrees not have everything smooth sailing in the recent past. He says unlike in the past when music production was easy considering the wide use of cassettes, today, things have become complex with advanced technology and one has to spend more money to come up with the right product.
But that is not the reason for his ‘silence’. “Those who have been keenly following my career will have not been entirely out of the business.”
The singer whose dream was to be an architect, has released new songs including Chugio ni Maisha which boasts a country music flavour and the monster hit Mwigerekanio done using a heavy rhythmic bass guitar lead similar to those of the 90s. The songs have been well received by his fans.
“Music is a journey. One that requires patience, perseverance, hard work and determination in order to succeed,” says Musaimo, adding there are more surprises in store for his fans.
Indeed the musician who bares ambition as his middle name is determined to succeed where his predecessors failed.
“There’s no giving up in doing what you love and enjoy the most. The fact that I am able to keep my fans entertained, educated and informed through my music is good enough.”
As a boy growing up in Kangema, Muranga County, Musaimo was inspired by music legends like Mbaraka Mwinshehe of Tanzania, Dr Nico of Congo and fellow Kikuyu musician DK Kamau. “I yearned to sing like them,” he recalls.
As a youth in 1979, Musaimo campaigned for the late minister John Michuki who in turn gave him Sh5000, which he used to pay his school fees.
Upon completing high school, Musaimo worked as a casual labourer and stonemason like his father. During the time he saved every cent earned.
During his free time, he composed songs assisted by a friend, Mwalimu wa Gatanga.
