In recent years, Kenya’s music scene has witnessed a dynamic shift with the rise of amapiano, a South African genre that has quickly captured the local audience’s attention. This wave has coincided with efforts to support homegrown music through initiatives like #PlayKe, which advocates for a minimum 60% local music airplay on national media. Despite these efforts, amapiano has surged into Kenyan clubs, festivals, and online spaces, challenging the growth of local genres such as gengetone. Artists and fans alike have noted the tension, as international acts often dominate lucrative performance slots, overshadowing Kenyan talents that have been cultivating their craft for years. Nevertheless, gengetone continues to thrive, with artists like Mastar VK highlighting its cultural relevance and potential for international recognition.
Many local musicians and producers, however, view amapiano and gengetone as genres that can coexist rather than compete. DJ GI and Brandy Maina emphasize that cross-genre experimentation and collaborations, such as the Weka Piano project blending gengetone with amapiano, showcase the versatility of Kenyan artists and the ability to embrace multiple musical styles. While streaming platforms have favored genres like Afro-pop, Afrobeat, and Swa&B over both gengetone and amapiano, live performances and social media engagement have enabled local artists to adapt and thrive. This interplay allows for a richer musical ecosystem where Kenyan creativity can shine alongside global influences.
Ultimately, the Kenyan music industry illustrates the power of audience choice and artist innovation. Amapiano’s popularity demonstrates the openness of Kenyan listeners to new sounds, while homegrown music continues to carve its space through originality, cultural relevance, and energetic performances. Industry stakeholders stress the importance of supporting local artists with the same enthusiasm given to foreign genres, ensuring that Kenya’s musical identity remains vibrant and sustainable. With collaboration, experimentation, and a dedicated fan base, both amapiano and gengetone are poised to coexist and evolve, enriching Kenya’s cultural landscape for years to come.