From My Dear Kwaheri to Cai wa 14: The Unconventional Musical Journey of Kikuyu Benga Legend Musaimo wa Njeri
Simon Kihara, famously known as Musaimo wa Njeri, has left an indelible mark on Kikuyu Music since his rise to fame in 1983 with the hit song 'My Dear Kwaheri.'
With nearly 200 recorded songs to his name, Musaimo's journey from a young boy in Kangema, Muranga, to a renowned musician is a testament to his determination and musical prowess.
Early Beginnings and Musical Passion
Growing up in Kangema, Musaimo's fascination with music was ignited by the tunes of Baraka Mwinshehe from Tanzania, Dr. Nicol from Congo, and fellow Kikuyu musician DK Kamau.
Although his initial dream was to become an architect, circumstances led him down a different path.
He campaigned for the late minister John Michuki, which earned him Sh5000. As a casual laborer and stone mason, he saved every penny.
Despite his labor-intensive job, Musaimo never let go of his passion for music.
He composed songs as a hobby, including the first one he recorded, 'Njungi ya Kiruka' in 1981.
His breakthrough came with 'My Dear Kwaheri,' a song that took him by surprise with its instant success.
The Path to Success
Musaimo's fame allowed him to learn from Kikuyu music giants like Kamaru, refining his band organization skills.
His musical foundation was laid during his time at St. Theresa School in Eastleigh, where he taught himself to play the guitar under the guidance of Father Arnold Grol.
Armed with his guitar skills, he formed the Mbiri Young Stars band in the early 1980s, which gained prominence with the hit song 'My Dear Kwaheri.'
Musical Composition and Themes
Musaimo's approach to songwriting centers on melody, followed by a meaningful message. He believes that the message and original melodies are crucial for a song's longevity.
His songs often touch on themes of lost love, life challenges, and human experiences. He emphasizes that the struggles musicians face, especially those from humble backgrounds, contribute to deeper and more genuine messages in songs.
Global Influences and Authenticity
Musaimo's Western country music contemporaries, like Alan Jackson and Don Williams, have influenced his love for guitar-accompanied songs.
His composition process usually takes a day or two, followed by weeks of refinement. While piracy has impacted his album sales, he acknowledges that music has provided him with a means to educate his children.
Mentorship and Future Plans
Throughout his three-decade-long career, Musaimo has mentored and produced emerging musicians. He encourages fans to support original Kenyan music and stay updated with music technology.
His continuous evolution is evident through his presence on platforms like SoundCloud and Apple's iTunes.
Looking ahead, he envisions expanding his production capacity and establishing a media school to train aspiring music and media producers.
Simon Kihara's journey from humble beginnings to Kikuyu music legend serves as an inspiration to budding musicians, showcasing the transformative power of music and the unwavering determination to overcome challenges.