Moses Qqu Odhiambo, popularly known as Qqu, is a Kenyan singer, songwriter, choreographer, media strategist, and lifestyle entrepreneur. Born on 28 October 1980 in Nairobi, Kenya, Qqu has built a versatile career in R&B, Afrofunk, African hip hop, and electronic music while also championing youth mentorship, environmental sustainability, and media innovation.
Known by aliases such as The Fisherman’s Hook and Double Cue You, Qqu has become one of the most dynamic multi-talented artists in East Africa. His career spans across music, dance, television, digital media, and humanitarian initiatives, making him both a cultural and social influencer.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Qqu grew up in Nairobi in a close-knit family. His father worked as a Provincial Agricultural Officer, while his mother served as an administrative clerk at Kenya Pipeline. Raised primarily by his mother, Qqu spent much of his youth in solitude, developing his artistic creativity. His elder brother introduced him to rhythm by tapping beats on the dinner table—a practice that ignited his lifelong passion for music.
By the age of eight, Qqu had joined his church choir as the youngest instrumentalist, performing alongside Kenyan gospel legends such as Pete Odera and Hellen Mtawali. During his high school years, he co-founded Ollovar Dance Company, one of Kenya’s most successful dance groups, before teaming up with Ian Wainaina to form the band NIX, which went on to produce multiple hit records.
Music Career
Qqu’s music reflects a fusion of conscious hip hop, Lingala, zouk, salsa, and R&B, with a signature love for the dancefloor. As a member of NIX, he released hit tracks like Beba, Nakudanganya, and Sura ya Malaika. Their 2007 single Utado, performed in both Kikuyu and Luo, was praised as a cultural unifier during the pre-election period.
Over the years, Qqu has worked with leading African musicians such as Juliani, Chris Adwar, Wyre, AnnieSoul, and Freestyle Essien from Nigeria. He is known for his high-energy live performances, having shared stages with international and African stars including P-Square, 2Face Idibia, Morgan Heritage, Oliver Mtukudzi, Jay Sean, Mr. Vegas, Nameless, Wyre, and Jua Cali.
In 2011, he released his solo album Alive, followed by singles such as There She Goes Again and Hisivi. His most recent release, the Critical Mass EP (2024), showcases his evolving artistry in Afrofunk and electronic soundscapes.
Television and Media Work
Qqu became a household name when he appeared as the Chief Judge on NTV’s Orange Beat Ya Street (2013), a dance competition that offered mentorship and a KSh 5 million prize to winners. His role solidified his status as a pioneer in Kenya’s dance industry.
Beyond performance, Qqu is an accomplished media strategist and digital content developer. He has worked with major brands including Samsung, Safaricom, Coca-Cola, Barclays, and Orange Telecom, and is a founding member of the Design Kenya Society, affiliated with the International Council of Societies of Industrial Design (ICSID).
Humanitarian and Advocacy Work
Qqu is equally known for his social and environmental activism. He founded the Alive Campaign, a mentorship initiative for primary and high school students, and has worked with NACADA and Club 254 to raise awareness about drug and alcohol abuse among youth.
He also co-founded the Inter-Prisons Dance Championship, offering creative outlets to inmates through music and dance. As an environmental advocate, he has spearheaded community-based recycling plants and promoted hydroponics farming to address water scarcity.
Discography
Albums
- Xaxawa (NIX) – 2005
- Utado (NIX) – 2007
- Sonko (NIX) – 2009
- Alive – 2011
- Critical Mass EP – 2024
Selected Singles
- Beba (2005)
- Nakudanganya (2006)
- Sura ya Malaika (2006)
- Utado (2007)
- Alive (2011)
- There She Goes Again (2012)
- Hisivi (2012)
- Kua Hivyo (2014)
Awards and Recognition
- Cybermatrixx Awards (2005–2007): Best Professional Web Designer of the Year
- Sprite Ball Face Off (2006): Best Hip-Hop Dance Group (DF1)
- Kisima Music Awards (2006 & 2007): Multiple nominations including Best Hip-Hop Group and Best Bomba Male
- Africa Gospel Music Awards (2011): Nominated, Best East African Artist
Legacy
Through his work as a musician, mentor, eco-advocate, and digital innovator, Qqu has become one of Kenya’s most versatile and impactful cultural figures. His career reflects a deep commitment not only to artistic excellence but also to social transformation, youth empowerment, and sustainability.
