Tanzanian Singeli artist Meja Kunta presents his most personal album ever with “Nashukuru,” produced by Mlamwa, under MEJAKUNTA, with international distribution thru EMPIRE.
The majority of releases cannot hold the weight that the tale behind this song provides it. “Nashukuru” was penned in the aftermath of his father’s demise — and the title, which means “I Give Thanks,” lies at the crossroads of grief, faith and thankfulness. So this is not a casual dip in the record. It is in a particular and very human place.
But in delivering the emotion, Meja Kunta does not lose his aural individuality. The quick Singeli percussion keeps driving the music at all times. And so, it is this blend of contemplative writing and engaging rhythm that makes “Nashukuru” truly one of a kind in the Singeli collection. Most artists are either entirely commercial or entirely emotional – rarely both at the same time, and rarely this neatly.
The writing praises God, his family, his friends, and his followers for being with him at one of the hardest moments of his life. Still, the record’s bigger message is about resilience, about believing that hard times have a larger purpose. That universality will carry “Nashukuru” beyond the Singeli fandom and into other East African listening populations.
EMPIRE Distribution delivers record worldwide reach as Meja Kunta’s audience grows far beyond Tanzania. His work with Harmonize, Billnass, Mac Voice and Lava Lava has created a fan base that is eager to listen to this kind of personal perspective.
Stream “Nashukuru” and let Meja Kunta know this record found you – leave your message in the comments!
Discussion