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| Makibi’s children Hellen, Leon and Sylvia. Photo/PD |
The world of music is vast, diverse and ever-evolving. While some musicians shy away from producing music in vernacular, some decide to pursue it no matter what.
Because of the efforts of many Kikuyu songs whizzes, both dead and alive, who began singing in the 60s and 70s, vernacular music is now recognised and is not just limited to ethnic followers.
One such artist is the late Makibi James, a Kikuyu songs maestro. He is considered to be of the second generation of Kikuyu benga music.
When he was still alive, he used his talent to entertain and inform the public on many social and political issues. It is because of his music that his legacy continues to flourish long after his sunset.
Makibi's musical journey started when he joined John Ndichu’s band as a bass vocalist. In 1986 he released his first Kikuyu song and until his demise, he had uncountable Kikuyu songs. Some of his songs include Nguhe Kirira, Susi Koki, Gikuyu Nitunyitane, Hau Niho Turi, among others.
His first-born daughter, Hellen Makibi, confirms that her father is one of the few secular Kikuyu songs artists who continue to entertain people through his always-evergreen hit songs that have stood the test of time.
“Our father’s legacy continues to shine on 14 years later. This is evident because his songs continue to receive massive airplay on radio, TV, and on several entertainment joints. His lyrics that had life experiences and social-political messages infused in them, will undoubtedly continue to inspire the current generation and many more to come,” says Hellen during an interview with People Daily.
During his musical journey, Makibi gave a helping hand to various artistes such as Kamande wa Kioi, Mike Rua, the late John Dematthew, Timo wa Esther, and many others through training.
Hellen says Makibi’s selfless nature was seen through his dedication to making lives better for everyone he came across. He always spread happiness wherever he went.
That is why in 1996 when he ailed and the doctors gave him a few months to live, but later survived, he gave children of Allamano Special School, Nyeri, a goat as a token of appreciation for their prayers.
Additionally, together with his friends, they raised over Ksh 1.2 million to support the school as well as formed the Association of Friends of Allamano Special School, an association that supports mentally challenged children.
“During the 2007 post-election violence, he was in the front-line helping victims of violence. He travelled to regions marred by violence and rescued people,” she recalls.
Hellen says her father was a pillar of strength, a role model, and an amazing leader in his community. The entire Mt Kenya region knew they had someone they could count on. His death was a loss that was felt nationwide.
Despite his demise, his legacy continues to inspire the current and future generations. Hellen shares how the Gatanga-born icon had a heart of gold and changed many lives and spread his wisdom to all through his Kikuyu songs and words of advice.
Hellen enjoyed a great relationship with her father. Though, because of his demanding career, the father of three didn’t get to spend much time with his family, but whenever he got a chance, he maximized it to not only spend quality time but also bond with them.
"The fond memories I hold dear to are his storytelling moments. One of my favourite stories is about how they would hunt wild pigs in the bushes in the nearby river with the boys," says Hellen.
Makibi’s children, led by Hellen, have stepped up to keep their father's music alive through their latest Kikuyu songs that they continue to release.