Michael Mwangi, popularly known as Flexx, was one of the standout names in the golden era of Genge music in Kenya. Born and raised in Gatundu, Flexx relocated to Nairobi’s South B, where his journey into the music scene began. Known for his charisma, demeanor, and signature dreadlocks, Flexx captured the attention of fans with his distinctive style and ability to drop memorable hits. Even with his long silence, many still remember him as one of the best Genge artists Kenya has produced.
The Rise of Flexx at Calif Records
Flexx’s musical journey took off when he joined Calif Records in the early 2000s, a label that played a pivotal role in shaping the Genge genre. When Clement “Clemo” Rapudo, the producer behind Calif Records, recognized Flexx’s raw talent, he immediately signed him to the label. Flexx’s initial dream was to become a full-time ragga artist, but it was through Genge that he found his true voice.
In 2000, Flexx recorded his first song, “Kama Wanitaka,” although it wasn’t released immediately. His early work laid the foundation for what would later become his successful career, but many of his early recordings remain unreleased to this day.
Flexx’s Breakthrough: “Nyundo” and “Amejibeba”
Flexx’s major breakthrough came in 2004 when he featured Jua Cali on the hit song “Nyundo.” The song hit the Kenyan music scene like a real hammer, resonating deeply with fans and establishing Flexx as one of the rising stars in Genge. “Nyundo” not only showcased Flexx’s lyrical ability but also demonstrated his knack for creating catchy, street-smart anthems. To this day, “Nyundo” remains one of the most memorable tracks from the Genge era, especially for Generation X and Millennials.
In 2006, Flexx followed up with another hit single, “Amejibeba,” which became a massive success and further cemented his place in the industry. The song’s infectious beat and Flexx’s clever lyrics made it a fan favorite, and it still leads in chart plays across various platforms, especially in Kenya’s public transport system (matatus) and local media. “Amejibeba” solidified Flexx’s reputation as one of the top Genge artists of his time.
A New Chapter: Relocation to Sweden
While Flexx was riding high on his musical success, his personal life took an important turn. In 2006, he married his long-time girlfriend, Salma Magure, a college student living in Sweden. This major life event marked a turning point in Flexx’s career, as he decided to prioritize his family life and relocate to Sweden to be closer to his wife.
While in Sweden, Flexx didn’t abandon his passion for music. Instead, he decided to expand his skill set by enrolling at the SAE International School in Sweden, where he studied music production. Upon completing his studies, Flexx graduated and gained valuable knowledge and experience in the technical aspects of music. This move may have taken him out of the limelight in Kenya, but it positioned him for potential future work behind the scenes in the music industry.
Where is Flexx Now?
Despite his absence from the Kenyan music scene, Flexx has maintained that he hasn’t quit music. In interviews, he has expressed his intention to release new music periodically and hinted that he’s still very much involved in the music world, albeit in a different capacity. Having studied music production, it’s likely that Flexx has shifted focus toward production and behind-the-scenes work in music.
While his long hiatus has left many fans wondering about his next move, Flexx has not officially retired. His fans continue to hold out hope that he will eventually make a full comeback to the music industry and reclaim his spot as one of Kenya’s beloved Genge artists. The fact that his past hits like “Nyundo” and “Amejibeba” continue to be played on the radio and in clubs speaks volumes about the enduring impact of his music.
Conclusion: Flexx’s Legacy
Flexx may have stepped back from the music industry’s frontlines, but his legacy as a Genge pioneer remains strong. His contributions to the genre, especially through hits like “Nyundo” and “Amejibeba,” left an indelible mark on Kenyan music. While his decision to relocate to Sweden and focus on family and education has kept him away from the spotlight, Flexx remains a respected figure in the industry.
As fans eagerly await his next musical release, we can only look back at his career with admiration and gratitude for the timeless hits he gave us. Flexx was an artist who understood the pulse of the streets, and his ability to create songs that resonated with everyday life made him one of the best in the game.
Here’s hoping we see more from Flexx in the future. Until then, we salute him for the memories and hits that continue to live on.
Salute to Flexx—the Genge star who captured our hearts!
