Renowned Kenyan musician Bensoul has revealed plans to delve into Kamba music, marking a bold cultural return that many of his fans may not have anticipated.
Speaking during an interview on a local radio station, Bensoul — whose real name is Benson Mutua — disclosed that he has been sitting on a trove of unreleased Kamba songs.
“Very soon, I will start singing Kamba music. I have a lot of songs in Kikamba, but I have not released any of them. I don’t know, it’s crazy how we create a lot of music and when it comes to releasing them, zinatokanga moja moja.” Bensoul said.
Known for his genre-bending artistry and masterful command of instruments including bass, guitar, keys, drums, and violin, Bensoul said the delay in releasing his Kikamba songs has largely been due to challenges around marketing and strategy.
Bensoul, who has previously collaborated with artists like Sauti Sol and shone in projects such as Extravaganza, says the upcoming Kamba songs are not traditional in style, but modern fusions.
“Ni beautiful fusions… kama venye tulifanya mavitu kama Extravaganza, wenye tuli-mix rumba na trap, rumba drill. It’s just those fusions that we usually experiment with.” He disclosed.
Although many of his past releases have resonated more with Luo musical influences, Bensoul says it’s time to embrace his roots.
“Nimejipata sana kwa nyimbo za Wajaluo in a crazy way. I feel like it’s high time I start to do my own now.” Bensoul narrated.
He hinted at an upcoming collaboration with musical group Vijana Barubaru, revealing that they have a full Kikamba track ready.
The singer expressed optimism about the reception of the songs so far.
“The feedback is amazing. People love the songs. They feel like it’s high time kukuwe na some modern Kamba music, because hakunanga.” He went on.
With his new musical direction, Bensoul is not just expanding his sound — he is reclaiming his heritage.
