Inside Nyashinski’s rise: Silence, struggles, and a legendary comeback
By William Muthama, April 6, 2026Nyamari Ongegu, popularly known as Nyashinski, began his musical journey as a student, where his passion for music quickly took shape.
While in high school, he teamed up with friends Roba and Collo to form the hip-hop group Kleptomaniax in 1999. The trio soon signed with Ogopa DJs and rose to fame with their breakout hit “Freak It” in 2002.
Their energetic style and relatable lyrics struck a chord with young audiences across Kenya. Songs like “Maniax Anthem,” “Haree,” “Swing Swing,” and “Tuendelee” became instant hits, firmly establishing Kleptomaniax as one of the most influential groups in Kenya’s early 2000s music scene.
Stepping away from the spotlight
At the peak of their success, the group went on hiatus around 2009. While his bandmates continued pursuing music, Nyashinski made a surprising decision: he walked away from the industry entirely.
For nearly a decade, he remained out of the public eye, leaving fans wondering what had happened to one of the country’s most promising artists.
During this period, his silence only added to the mystery surrounding him. Speculation grew, but Nyashinski stayed away, choosing to deal with life privately rather than in the spotlight.
A powerful comeback
In 2016, Nyashinski returned with “Now You Know,” a deeply personal track that addressed his absence and reintroduced him to the music scene. The song resonated strongly with fans, marking the beginning of one of the most remarkable comebacks in Kenyan music.
He followed it up with “Malaika” in 2017, a heartfelt ballad that became a massive hit and earned him the Mdundo Award for Most Downloaded Male Single.
His sound had evolved into a more mature, reflective, and emotionally rich one. Songs like “Kiasi,” “Good Old Days,” and “Tai Chi” showcased his growth, blending hip-hop with R&B while delivering powerful messages about life, struggle, and perseverance.
Nyashinski’s return proved that he was not just back, but better. He transformed from a youthful rapper into a respected voice in the industry, known for thoughtful storytelling and consistency.
In 2022, he held his first major headline concert, “Shin City,” demonstrating his lasting appeal and strong connection with fans. His performances showed an artist fully in control of his craft, confident in both his sound and identity.
A new era of greatness
The momentum continued to build. In 2025, Nyashinski signed a major deal with Sony Music Africa, further cementing his place among the continent’s top artists.
In 2026, he unveiled one of his most ambitious projects yet, “Showman: The Residency.” Set to take place at Carnivore Grounds in Nairobi, the production promises a unique blend of live music, storytelling, and high-level stage design.