Alex Kasau, Ken Wa Maria and 5 other artistes keeping Kamba Benga music alive

Back in the day, Kamba music was mostly a “home” affair. It was the soundtrack to dusty village markets and family celebrations, played on acoustic instruments and traditional drums.

Back then, if you wanted to hear the latest hits, you’d have to wait for specific radio shows or find a local “Katitu” band playing under a tree. It was soulful and slow-paced, purely for the community.

But things have changed fast. What used to be music for the village has now exploded into a massive industry that dominates the night scene. Today, Kamba music is the main attraction in high-end clubs across Nairobi and beyond. The slow rhythms have been replaced by high-octane guitar riffs and heavy basslines that keep people on their feet until dawn.

Here is a look at the six artistes who are currently leading this fast-rising scene.

Alex Kasau {Kulukulu}

Alex, widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted Benga guitarists, continues to dominate the genre with his signature fast-paced fingerstyle guitar work.

Born in Kitui County, he rose through the Kisasi Stars band before founding Nguuni Lovers Band, a group that has become synonymous with high-energy performances across Kenya.

His breakout hit “Pewa Pewa” remains a staple in party playlists, while classics like “Miao Ya Nzovi” cemented his reputation as a master storyteller. In recent years, songs such as “Mashambiki ma Masaku” and “Ahadi” have kept him relevant in 2025–2026 Benga mixes.

Ken Wa Maria

Ken Wa Maria, born Kennedy Wambua Ngunze in Machakos County, is widely credited with transforming Kamba music from rural dominance to mainstream airwaves.

With a background in statistics from the University of Nairobi and early roots in church choirs and informal trade, he represents the genre’s journey from humble beginnings to commercial success.

His iconic hit “Fundamentals” remains one of the most influential Kamba songs in modern Kenyan music history, while recent releases like “Mutua Katuku” and “Dubai” continue to resonate with audiences.

Maima

Alphonce Kioko, popularly known as Maima, has emerged as one of the strongest contenders in the new Benga wave, often compared to Katombi for dominance in live performances.

Hailing from Makueni County, Maima built his brand through the Kithungo Raha band, known for its polished and dance-heavy Benga sound.

His signature track “Nisye Maima” has become an identity anthem for his fans, while songs like “Wendo” and “Kiembeni kwa Maima” reflect his growing influence in both music and business.

Stella Mengele

Veteran gospel artiste Stella Mengele has experienced a major resurgence, blending soulful gospel with Afro-pop and English ballads.

Born in Kitui County, she began singing as a child and officially launched her career in 2003. She is known for hits like “Kindu Wa Kingi” and “Kiliombunge”, which made her a household name in Ukambani.

Her recent releases, including “My Lover My TamTam”, “Amani”, and “Goodbye My Dear Friend”, have expanded her audience across digital platforms.

Faith Nzilani

Faith Nzilani has rapidly risen as one of the leading voices in contemporary Kamba gospel, blending vernacular rhythms with modern production.

Based in Nairobi but deeply rooted in Kitui traditions, she has built a strong following through viral songs such as “Nimbangie Kutwawa” and “Kindu Kiseo”, the latter performed at her own wedding.

Her recent hits like “Anyanya Makwa” and “Thina Naathina” continue to dominate gospel playlists and social media trends.

Sina Maria

Sina Maria represents the new generation of Kamba artists experimenting with fusion sounds, combining fast-paced Benga beats with gospel-inspired lyrics.

Her energetic performances and dance-driven content have made her a frequent feature in Kamba music mashups and celebration mixes, particularly alongside established names like Katombi and Maima.

Together, these artistes reflect a rapidly evolving Kamba music scene that is no longer confined to traditional boundaries. From gospel storytelling and cultural preservation to high-energy Benga dance tracks, the genre is increasingly shaping national and regional music conversations.