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Meet Vicky Young, the artiste redefining Kisii benga with urban flair
09th November, 2025 07:06 PM
In the vibrant Gusii music industry, few names have risen as rapidly and distinctly as Vicky Young Ensanako, born Victor Orwachi Maina.
Hailing from the quiet town of Ekerenyo in Nyamira County, Vicky has become a household name, defying the odds stacked against Kisii-language musicians who often struggle to capture national attention.
His breakout single, Chinkond’i, is a runaway success, boasting over 2.7 million YouTube views, while four of his other tracks have each surpassed the one-million mark, a rare achievement for an artiste performing in Ekegusii.
With his unique sound, a fusion of traditional Benga rhythms and modern urban beats, Vicky Young is not just making music; he is redefining what Gusii music can sound like in the modern era.
Music runs deep in his family. His father was a gifted player of the traditional obokano, a bowl-shaped lyre that is central to Gusii culture, while his mother’s lineage traces back to a family of legendary Benga musicians, including Charles Nyagwoka, Sagero, and the late Mwalimu John Arisi O’sababu, his grandfather.
With such musical roots, it is no surprise that Vicky’s artistry carries a blend of ancestral authenticity and youthful innovation.
Although he officially launched his professional career in 2020, Vicky’s passion for music began long before then. Growing up surrounded by melodies and instruments, he honed his craft through local performances and collaborations, building a sound that resonates across generations.
His early exposure to the traditional Gusii musical style inspired him to give it a modern twist, one that would appeal to both local and urban audiences.
Music success
A major turning point came with his collaboration with Miggy Echambioni in the hit song Titi Nkorundi. The partnership introduced Vicky to a wider audience and cemented his place among the new wave of Gusii artists blending culture with contemporary flair.
The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy flow highlighted his vocal strength and set the stage for more hits to come.
Since then, Vicky has continued to produce crowd favorites such as Obobesa Bokeigo, Beibe, Chiconnection, and the ever-popular Sweet Moyo featuring Robe Ebundi. These songs have enjoyed massive airplay in Kenya, the Gusii region, and even in the diaspora, where his fans proudly celebrate his authenticity and creative evolution.
His collaborations with established artists like Babu Gee Omosayansi and Miggy Echambioni have further expanded his reach, proving that Kisii music can thrive on a national and international stage.
Beyond his personal success, Vicky Young has become a mentor to upcoming musicians. One of his notable protégés, Konshaxx Omosongo, gained recognition after their joint project Egesusu became a local hit.
Through mentorship and collaboration, Vicky is nurturing a new generation of artists determined to keep Gusii music alive and relevant in a fast-changing industry.
Despite the glitz of fame, his journey has not been without challenges. Like many artistes, he has had to contend with piracy and limited industry support, obstacles that often slow the progress of regional musicians.
Yet, his perseverance, creativity, and connection with fans have kept him strong. His music continues to dominate media houses, clubs, family gatherings, and community events, striking a chord with both young and old audiences.
His music stands out not just for its rhythm, but for its storytelling power. His songs mirror everyday life, love, struggle, celebration, and hope, weaving narratives that resonate deeply within the community. Each track carries a piece of Nyamira’s soul, wrapped in smooth vocals and irresistible beats.
