Nazizi Hirji, known as the First Lady of Kenyan Hip Hop and a versatile reggae artist, has been a trailblazer in the East African music scene for over two decades. From her teenage years to her current status as a music legend, Nazizi has consistently broken barriers and set the standard for female artists in the region. Her influence spans beyond music, touching on acting, hosting, and activism, making her one of the most celebrated and respected artists in East Africa.
Early Beginnings: A Star in the Making
Nazizi’s journey into the music world started at the young age of 16, when she released her first single “Ni Sawa Tu.” However, it was her solo project “Nataka Kuwa Famous” that truly brought her into the mainstream. Her early collaborations with Ukoo Flani Mau Mau, one of Kenya’s most iconic hip hop collectives, introduced her to a wider audience and helped establish her as a force to be reckoned with in the late 1990s.
Nazizi quickly rose to fame due to her unique ability to blend hip hop and reggae, two genres that, at the time, were relatively male-dominated in Kenya. Her distinct voice, lyrical prowess, and ability to navigate between the genres earned her the title of “The First Lady”—a nod to her status as the leading female artist in East African urban music.
Necessary Noize and the East African Bashment Crew
Nazizi’s star continued to rise when she joined the iconic music group Necessary Noize alongside Wyre and Bamzigi. The group became a cornerstone of Kenyan music in the early 2000s, releasing unforgettable hits like “Kenyan Boy/Kenyan Girl,” “Bless My Room,” and “Let’s Get Down.” Their music captured the hearts of Kenyan youth, blending reggae, hip hop, and dancehall, and they became a defining voice for the generation.
After Bamzigi left the group, Nazizi and Wyre went on to form the East African Bashment Crew, bringing in Bebe Cool from Uganda. Together, they released hits that resonated across East Africa and beyond. Nazizi’s presence in the group helped elevate her status not only as a rapper but as a reggae and dancehall queen in the region. Despite the group’s split, Nazizi’s position as an empress in the industry remained intact.
Curtain-Raising for International Stars
Nazizi’s talent and versatility have allowed her to share the stage with some of the biggest international stars in the world. She has opened for artists such as Sean Paul, Wayne Wonder, and Akon in Kenya, Marlon Asher in Uganda, and most recently, Julian Marley and Andrew Tosh in Ethiopia. Her ability to command such high-profile performances speaks to her lasting influence and the respect she has earned as an artist.
In addition to performing in East Africa, Nazizi has toured six American states and five European countries, spreading the East African sound and culture to a global audience.
Iconic Hits and Memorable Moments
Nazizi’s discography is filled with iconic hits that have stood the test of time. Songs like “Kenyan Boy/Kenyan Girl” featuring Wyre, “Fire Anthem,” “Forever,” “Tension,” and “Jump N Shout” are still regarded as anthems in Kenya. “Kenyan Boy/Kenyan Girl” in particular remains a classic, with its catchy hook and celebration of Kenyan pride. The song continues to resonate with fans who grew up in the early 2000s, evoking memories of a golden era in Kenyan music.
Nazizi’s impact was not limited to her music alone; she has also hosted popular TV shows like H2O TV on KTN and the reggae show Natural Mystic on Nation FM (now Easy FM). Her passion for reggae and dancehall is evident in her ability to curate and share these genres with audiences, further cementing her as a tastemaker in the industry.
Personal Tragedy and Strength
In late 2023, Nazizi faced a heartbreaking tragedy when her son, Jezreel, passed away after a tragic accident while they were on vacation in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The news of Jezreel’s death sent shockwaves across the Kenyan entertainment scene, and fans and fellow artists expressed their condolences and support. Despite this unimaginable loss, Nazizi has shown incredible strength, remaining a pillar of resilience as she continues to navigate both her personal life and professional career.
A New Chapter: Co-Hosting on Vybez Radio
Today, Nazizi is keeping her passion for reggae alive through her role as a co-host on Vybez Radio, Kenya’s premier reggae and dancehall station. This platform allows her to stay connected with her fans and continue promoting reggae music in Kenya, a genre that has been close to her heart since her early years.
Through Vybez Radio, Nazizi shares her vast knowledge of reggae and dancehall while continuing to be an influential voice in East African music. Her work as a radio presenter shows her versatility and commitment to fostering a love for music beyond her own career as a performer.
Conclusion: A Legacy Worth Celebrating
Nazizi Hirji is more than just a musician—she is an icon, a trailblazer, and a symbol of strength and resilience. From her early days as a teenager trying to break into the music scene to becoming the First Lady of Kenyan Hip Hop and reggae, Nazizi has paved the way for female artists in the region. Her collaborations with Necessary Noize, the East African Bashment Crew, and solo projects have left an indelible mark on East African music.
Even though she has faced personal tragedies, Nazizi’s dedication to music and her ability to inspire remain unwavering. As she continues to shape the Kenyan music landscape through her work at Vybez Radio and her contributions to the reggae community, we can only look forward to more great things from this legendary empress.
We celebrate you, Nazizi, for the memories, the music, and the incredible legacy you’ve created. One love! 🌟
