Kijana ish Unveils Bold, Personal New Album ‘Not Accepted’
Kijana ish, the Nairobi-born artist also known as Ishmael Kitinya, has released “Not Accepted”, a bold and deeply personal album that redefines what it means to celebrate Kenyan identity in music today. From the very first track, it’s clear that this project is more than just an album—it’s a cultural statement, a sonic journey that […]
Nairobi native Kijana ish, better known as Ishmael Kitinya, has unveiled the album “Not Accepted,” a daring and intensely personal work that reshapes how Kenyan identity is celebrated through music today. From the opening song, it becomes evident that this release is more than an album—it serves as a cultural proclamation, a sonic voyage that balances the depth of tradition with the energy of contemporary innovation.
The album’s impact lies in its ability to connect Kenya’s storied musical roots with the worldwide sounds dominating current charts. Classic genres such as benga, chakacha, and mugithi coexist alongside Afrobeat and gengetone, forging a sonic landscape that feels both enduring and strikingly contemporary. The fusion flows effortlessly, reflecting the lively spirit from Kisumu to Mombasa and reaching audiences well beyond Kenya.
Ishmael delivers verses in Swahili, Sheng, Kikuyu, and English, blending tongues as he blends sounds. Tracks oscillate between tales of sorrow and perseverance, happiness and contemplation, echoing the intricacies of his personal path. The album captures Kenya’s everyday pulse—the cadence of matatu journeys, the din of open-air bazaars, the joy and hardship of those immersed in their heritage. By fusing instruments such as the nyatiti with Nairobi’s unmistakable urban beat, Ishmael produces a record that feels both personal and wide-reaching.
The album also functions as a kind of autobiography. It traces the emerging artist’s journey—from choir singing in churches and freestyle battles on the streets to recording in overseas studios—leading to a first Kenyan release that acts as a heartfelt tribute to his country and a plea for solidarity. This work not only pays tribute to tradition but also reimagines it, positioning Kijana ish among Kenyan musicians who break new ground while remaining anchored in their roots.
Listen to ‘Not Accepted’ on all platforms here. Follow Kijana ish on Instagram
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