Kenya: King Kaka shares sixth album 2nd Life

The new 17-track collection, available on major streaming and download platforms, is a departure from the standard rough and edgy hip hop lyricism that the artist is generally known for. Instead, it is more reflective and many of the tracks can be placed in the gospel idiom.

“This is the most honest I have been in an album. I hope that this will lift you up,” King Kaka said.

The musician says that in 2021 he was given 30 days to live after being struck down with a mysterious illness. Luckily, he pulled through, and it seems that the experience has reawakened his spirituality, which he has clearly incorporated onto the album.

“I went through a life-changing ordeal and I am appreciating every minute of me being able to do what I love – life, family, music and business. I am literally living my second life,” he said.

The album, made over a year, features collaborations with established and new voices in the East African music scene including Alpha Mwana Mtule, Femi One, Wanavokali, Watendawili, Kanambo Dede, Iyanii, Anastacia Muema, Solomon Mkubwa and Zamunda, among others.

“This is the most excited I have been while recording an album. Always grateful to the entire team over the one year we have been working on this. It’s very close to my heart,” King Kaka said.

A number of accompanying videos have also been released, including ‘Umenibariki’ featuring Goodluck Gozbert, ‘Asante’ featuring Kidum and ‘Manifest’ featuring Nviiri The Storyteller.