Polycarp Otieno, popularly known as Fancy Fingers, the celebrated guitarist and composer of Kenya’s iconic Afro-pop band Sauti Sol, opened up about his career transition following the band’s indefinite hiatus in May 2023. Speaking on The Long Form podcast with host Sanny Ntayombya, Fancy Fingers shared insights into his journey of self-discovery, the evolving East African music scene, and his new venture, the premium African guitar brand Jawaya. The interview, recorded in a Nairobi studio, highlighted his ongoing contributions to music and mentorship in the region.
Sauti Sol, formed in 2005 with members Bien-Aimé Baraza, Willis Chimano, and Savara Mudigi, transformed African music through a unique blend of Afro-pop, jazz, and traditional rhythms. After nearly two decades of hits including Suzanna and Kuliko Jana, the band paused collective music production to focus on individual projects. Fancy Fingers emphasized that the hiatus was not a breakup, noting that Sauti Sol continues to thrive through initiatives like Sol Generation Records and Sol Fest. He reflected on the challenges of forging a solo identity while navigating new roles in songwriting, production, and mentorship, sharing that his early experiences juggling actuarial science studies with music taught him resilience and inspired a generation of East African artists.
During the interview, Fancy Fingers unveiled the Jawaya guitar, crafted from African mahogany and spruce in partnership with Canadian firm Graphtech. The instrument aims to empower young African musicians and foster homegrown music brands. He also praised the growth of Rwanda’s music scene and stressed the importance of authentic African storytelling in global music. Beyond his musical pursuits, he discussed fatherhood, explaining how raising his four-and-a-half-year-old daughter has deepened his empathy and broadened his perspective. Looking ahead, Fancy Fingers plans to showcase the Jawaya guitar in Kigali with an acoustic performance, aiming to strengthen cultural ties and promote African artistry across the region.