Kenyan Genge singer Mejja releases “Mboka” as track seven on his debut album “Mtoto Wa Khadija,” and it’s firmly in his comfort zone.
“Mboka” is a snapshot of regular Nairobi street life, told in Mejja’s distinctive funny style and playful storytelling. He’s the guy who can make the dullest moments sound so incredibly fun. But beyond the jokes, there’s a real cultural pride running through the record that fans from the city can relate to straight away.
The Genge rhythms remain lively throughout. Also, Mejja’s wordplay keeps you engaged in even when the beat alone would have sufficed. His charm has “Mboka” aloft with ease, which is what has always separated him from the rest of the pack in this lane.
The best thing about this song in “Mtoto Wa Khadija” is how Kenyan it sounds. But the attraction is obviously more than local listeners. Mejja has also announced a “Mboka Challenge” seeking small business owners to be featured in the upcoming music video. That kind of community involvement speaks a lot about where his mind is at with this record.
Stream “Mboka” and while you’re at it, check out the whole “Mtoto Wa Khadija” album.
Discussion