Group Name: Kleptomaniax
Formed: 1999
Origin: Nairobi, Kenya
Genres: Kapuka, Hip-Hop, Rap
Members: Roba (Robert Manyasa), Collo (Collins Majale), Nyashinski (Nyamari Ongegu)
Labels: Ogopa DJs (Former), Independent
Early Beginnings and Rise to Fame
Kleptomaniax, one of Kenya’s most influential hip-hop groups, was formed in 1999 by high school friends Roba (Robert Manyasa), Collo (Collins Majale), and Nyashinski (Nyamari Ongegu) while they were students at Nairobi School. The trio was inspired by the emerging Kapuka sound and quickly made a name for themselves after joining Ogopa DJs, one of Kenya’s leading record labels at the time.
In 2002, the group released their first single, “Freak It,” which introduced their unique blend of hip-hop and Kapuka to Kenyan audiences. The song was followed by hits like “Maniax Anthem” and “Haree,” but it was the release of “Tuendelee” in 2004 that truly solidified their status as one of Kenya’s most popular music groups. The song, written in response to a diss track from fellow rapper Bamboo, defended the commercial style of Kapuka, earning Kleptomaniax mainstream acclaim.
Debut Album: M4E (Maniax Forever)
In 2005, Kleptomaniax released their debut album, M4E (Maniax Forever). The album, featuring hits like “Swing,” “Haree,” “Tuendelee,” and “Furahia,” showcased their lyrical prowess and their ability to fuse local Kenyan sounds with global hip-hop trends. The success of M4E earned the group nominations and awards, including a MTV Europe Music Awards nomination for Best African Act in 2005, though the award was ultimately won by 2Face Idibia of Nigeria. Kleptomaniax also received recognition from the Kora Awards and Kisima Music Awards.
International Tours and Break
Following the success of their debut album, Kleptomaniax went on a US tour in 2007, further expanding their fan base. However, after 2007, the group took a hiatus as the members pursued solo projects. During this period, Nyashinski, Collo, and Roba explored individual careers, though they would occasionally reunite for special performances.
Comeback and NITT (Now Is The Time)
In 2009, Kleptomaniax made a comeback with the release of their second album, NITT (Now Is The Time). The album featured tracks like “Magnetic,” “Psycho,” “One Night Stand,” and “Njoo,” signaling the group’s return to the Kenyan music scene. Despite a brief resurgence, the group eventually disbanded after the release of NITT, with members once again focusing on solo careers.
Solo Success and Group Members
- Nyashinski: After the group’s break, Nyashinski took an extended break from the music scene before making a highly successful comeback in 2016. His hit single “Malaika” won a Mdundo Award for Most Downloaded Male Single in 2017, re-establishing him as one of Kenya’s top artists.
- Collo: Collo remained active in the music industry, transitioning into gospel music and releasing inspirational tracks. His evolution from secular to gospel music has been well received by fans.
- Roba: While Roba took a step back from the public eye compared to Nyashinski and Collo, he remains an important part of Kleptomaniax’s legacy.
Legacy and Influence
Kleptomaniax remains one of the most iconic groups in Kenyan music history. Their contribution to the Kapuka genre, which blends African rhythms with contemporary hip-hop, left a lasting mark on the Kenyan and East African music scenes. Known for their clever lyrics, playful rhymes, and infectious beats, the trio became cultural icons in the early 2000s and inspired a new generation of Kenyan rappers and musicians.
Their songs, especially hits like “Tuendelee”, continue to resonate with fans who grew up during the golden age of Kapuka music. Despite disbanding, Kleptomaniax’s music remains a testament to their role as pioneers of Kenyan hip-hop.
Awards and Nominations
- 2002: Chat Awards – Favourite Male Group
- 2003: Chat Awards – Favourite Male Group
- 2005: Kisima Music Awards – Best Group
- 2005: MTV Europe Music Awards – Nominated for Best African Act
- 2005: Kora Awards – Nominated for Best Group from Eastern Africa
- 2006: Tanzania Music Awards – Best East African Album (M4E)
- 2008: Kisima Music Awards – Video of the Year (Magnetic)
- 2008: Pearl of Africa Music Awards – Best Kenyan Group
Selected Discography
Albums:
- M4E (Maniax Forever) (2005)
- NITT (Now Is The Time) (2009)
Popular Singles:
- Freak It – 2002
- Tuendelee – 2004
- Haree – 2005
- Swing – 2005
- Magnetic – 2009
- Psycho – 2009
Other Tracks:
- Mi Bado Niko (2005)
- Furahia (2005)
- Kabeibe (2005)
- Njoo (2009)
- Untouchable (2009)
Conclusion
Kleptomaniax will forever be remembered as one of the most influential hip-hop groups to emerge from Kenya. Their contributions to Kapuka and the larger Kenyan music scene have paved the way for numerous artists, and their legacy continues to live on through their music and the individual success of the group’s members. Despite their split, Kleptomaniax remains a cultural staple, and their impact on East African music is undeniable.
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