Top Kenyan songs of 2022

With more opportunities for performances opening up, Kenyan artists have been trying to outdo each other, churning out new music. And with the amount of creativity and talent on display, it has been a battle royal between upcoming artists and existing ones.

The outcome has been a list of songs that you should definitely check out. So, as the year moves slowly towards its tail end, we take a look at some of the musical offerings the good people in ‘the 254’ have been getting down to... so far.

Kai Wangu – Nadia Mukami ft. Arrow Bwoy

Nadia Mukami and Arrow Bwoy celebrate the birth of their son in this amazing ode to good parenting.

Tamu Walahi – Willy Paul

On this bongo flava-esque track, a smitten Willy Paul expresses his undying love for his romantic interest in ways only a crooner of his standing can.

Awicko – Nyamwalo ft. Prince Indah

This hit, which has taken Kenya by storm, continues to showcase the massive popularity of the Luo benga subgenre.

V-Be – Sasa Hivi ft. Ashley Music

This easily qualifies as love song of the year. Top vocals. Top lyricism.

Kuna Kuna – Vic West ft. Fathermoh, Savara, Brandy Maina & Thee Exit Band

An energetic club banger that will no doubt dominate many a party playlist beyond 2022.

On Yah – Nikita Kering'

Warm vocals and unique arrangement deliver a laid back track in keeping with the high standards that have come to be expected of the young singing sensation.

Mbona – Khaligraph Jones

Since its release in July, the jam has taken over Kenyan airwaves by storm. A hip hop powerhouse, Khaligraph Jones has been nothing but a revelation since he entered the game, with hits like ‘Yes Bana’, ‘Hao’, ‘Wavy’, ‘Tuma Kitu’, and more to his name. ‘Mbona’ delivers distinguished visuals and great rap flow, and it is easy to see why it has accrued millions of views on YouTube.

Mbwe Mbwe – Bien-Aime Baraza ft. Aaron Rimbui

Rumba music in Kenya is mostly associated with the old and pot-bellied. But in ‘Mbwe Mbwe’, Bien and Rimbui attempt to remake the sound to appeal to all ages, and they succeed immensely. The song is a reflection of Bien’s adaptable skills, and perhaps why he should be declared a national treasure. ‘Mbwe Mbwe’ continues to be the most played song this year despite being released late last year.

Woman – Otile Brown ft. Harmonize

Otile Brown is Kenya’s most beloved artist. It could have something to do with his voice or easygoing nature. Whatever it is, his fans are loyal. In 2017, when he released his debut album Best of Otile Brown, music critics were amazed by his talent as he completely revolutionised Swahili R&B. ‘Woman’, like most of his hits, is a love anecdote. Here, he partners with Tanzanian star Harmonize to keep it bongo.

Dimension – Fully Focus ft. Bien-Aime Baraza

Kenyans automatically assume that ‘Dimension’ is a track by Bien because he does the hook, verse and chorus. However, the track is by Fully Focus, who, unknown to many, is a DJ, promoter and producer. ‘Dimension’ is his first song, and with over a million views in just two months, it is without a doubt a certified club banger.

Geri Inengi (Subaru ya Mbaru) – Wakadinali ft. SirBwoy

One would be forgiven for thinking that this is a party anthem given the way it has dominated the streams this year. Yet this hit, which describes the testy relationship between Nairobi’s unemployed youth and the police, is a testament to how clever lyricism can help relay a serious message to even the most unlikely audience.

Kanairo Dating – Mejja

‘Kanairo Dating’ is a few weeks old but is inching towards a million views. Mejja is in his element as he breaks down the Nairobi dating life, listing the different kinds of women a man is likely to encounter in his search for true love.

Sweet Love – Bahati and Diana B

This couple grasps the power of PR. Some interpret their moves as clout chasing, while others see it as a well-calculated way to stay relevant. Whatever your thoughts, Bahati and his significant other do manage to pull off an outstanding performance on ‘Sweet Love’.

Toto – Willy Paul

Despite his love-hate relationship with the Kenyan public, Willy Paul has always been a top talent. Even though fans know him as a great vocalist, ‘Toto’ confirms it.

Back It Up – Nameless and Wahu

This is not the first time this Kenyan power couple has hit the studio together. The lovebirds are known for hits like ‘Feeling’, ‘Deep’, ‘Inspire’, ‘My Everything’ and ‘Te Amo’. On ‘Back It Up’ the chemistry between Nameless and Wahu is undeniable.

Inauma – Bien-Aime Baraza

In another highly successful solo effort, Sauti Sol frontman Bien points out the heartbreaking nature of unrequited love.

Jali – Sanaipei Tande ft. Nyashinski

Few artists in Kenya have the staying power of Sanaipei Tande. After her first band Sema disbanded, she never looked back and remains a permanent fixture in the Kenyan entertainment scene. Her performances with Otile Brown were the best yet... until she released ‘Jali’ featuring Nyashinski.