Kenya’s Serro announces release date for new album Kuwe

Kuwe, which translates to 'for you' in Zulu, is a 14-track album and showcases Serro's distinctive sound that has roots in soul, folk, bango, benga, reggae and pop. The singer delivers the compositions in Luo, Kikuyu, Swahili, Giriama, English and Zulu. The album's themes are generally about love, and the songs feature a wide range of dynamics.

"The whole project took three years to materialise," Serro told Music In Africa. "It is co-composed in collaboration with Mutoriah – a producer and excellent singer-songwriter in his right."

Serro said the process of making Kuwe a reality was frustrating but also exciting.

"Limited finances was the biggest challenge I faced," she said. "You know, ours is a gig economy and income is never regular, yet projects like this require lots of money. Regardless, I got a great sense of fulfilment after every studio session and after every song was complete. I am just glad that everyone working on this project with me was very patient."

Asked what inspired the album name, Serro said: "I listen to a lot of South African music and some of my musical idols are South African. Amanda Black is one such artist, and In fact, I was channelling her when composing 'Kuwe' the single. 'Kuwe is a gift to my fans."

Serro hopes to stage an album launch and is planning a tour after the COVID-19 pandemic. In the meantime, she is writing more music and putting together a virtual performance. The date will be announced via her Facebook page soon.

"The live stream is more of a sneak peek of the launch concert that I still intend to host soon as we are back to 'normal'," she said. "This situation is very difficult, I won’t lie. I miss the stage, band rehearsals, watching other artists performing for a live audience, and my church choir. I miss it all."

Pre-order Kuwe here.