Swabri Mohammed, better known by his stage name Redsan, is an iconic figure in East Africa’s music scene, especially in the dancehall genre. With a career spanning over two decades, Redsan has solidified his place as the King of Dancehall in Kenya and beyond. His journey from the informal housing sector of Majengo, Nairobi, to international stardom is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and ability to adapt to the ever-changing music industry.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born into the Mijikenda tribe of Duruma from the coastal region of Kenya, Redsan’s humble beginnings in Nairobi’s Majengo neighborhood helped shape his musical influences and ambitions. He first shot to fame in 1998 after winning the Star Search Challenge hosted at the renowned Carnivore discothèque in Nairobi. This victory was a significant turning point in his career, launching him into the spotlight and opening doors for him to join the Ogopa Deejays unit.
Breakthrough: Seasons of the San
Redsan’s debut album, “Seasons of the San” (2002), was a major success and catapulted him to fame across East Africa. The album featured hit singles like “Julie” and “Wanipa Raha,” which became instant favorites on radio stations and among fans. These tracks not only established Redsan as a dancehall artist to watch but also marked him as one of the most promising talents in East African music at the time.
The Solo Journey: Continued Success
After the success of his first album, Redsan embarked on a solo career and continued to release music that resonated with his growing fan base. His second album, “Red” (2004), included popular tracks like “Chicken,” “Malaika,” and “Apakatwe.” These songs solidified his dominance in the dancehall genre, showcasing his ability to blend local Kenyan sounds with global dancehall influences.
In 2006, Redsan released his third album, “Pioneer,” which featured hits like “Kenyan” and “Touch.” His consistent ability to produce hit after hit kept him at the forefront of Kenya’s music scene and earned him a loyal fanbase not only in Kenya but across East Africa and beyond.
Collaborations and Global Reach
Redsan’s musical reach expanded further in 2013 when he collaborated with Jamaican artist Demarco on the remix of “Badder Dan Most.” This collaboration gained significant airplay and introduced Redsan to a broader audience in the Caribbean and other parts of the world. His success continued with a lucrative deal with Rockstar4000, a Pan-African music company that helped broaden his international footprint.
In addition to his musical success, Redsan established his own record label and studio, Dutty Sounds, further cementing his position as a music mogul. He signed former Southwest Records head producer Maich Blaq to lead the label, and together, they worked with several up-and-coming artists, including Proff, whose debut single “Nataka Nijue” topped Kenyan charts for six weeks. Proff’s follow-up single, “Data,” was also a massive hit across East Africa, thanks to Redsan’s mentorship and production expertise.
Redsan’s Influence and The East African Bashment Crew
Redsan has always been a trailblazer, not only in music but in creating movements that shape East Africa’s music culture. During a recent event in Kampala on June 29, 2024, Redsan shared the stage with legendary artists like Jose Chameleone and Bebe Cool during the “Love Scotch Affair” event. The night, filled with electrifying performances and sponsored by Uganda Breweries Limited, brought together music lovers and whiskey enthusiasts for an unforgettable experience.
During this event, Redsan reminisced about the early days of his career, mentioning that he, Chameleone, and Bebe Cool were the founding members of the Original East African Bashment Crew in 1996. Their journey together paved the way for the fusion of dancehall and local sounds in East Africa, creating a unique genre that resonated with audiences across the region. This moment was a testament to the legacy that Redsan, along with his fellow pioneers, built over the years.
The “Absentee King” of Dancehall
Redsan’s success and popularity have taken him far beyond Kenyan borders, leading to his frequent international tours and performances. Due to his frequent absence from Kenya while performing abroad, Redsan was once branded the “Absentee King of Dancehall.” However, this label is a testament to his global appeal, as his presence is often required at major concerts and events across the world.
Despite his busy schedule and numerous international commitments, Redsan remains deeply connected to Kenya and East Africa. His ability to balance his international fame with his commitment to the local music scene has earned him respect from both fans and fellow artists.
Family Life and Personal Choices
Away from the limelight, Redsan is a devoted family man. He is married to Viverz Mohammed, and together they have four children. Redsan has chosen to keep his family life private, opting not to share much about them on social media. His decision to protect his family from the public eye speaks to his desire for privacy in a world where many public figures are constantly in the spotlight.
Conclusion
Redsan is undeniably a dominant force in East Africa’s music scene, especially in the dancehall genre. From his humble beginnings in Majengo, Nairobi, to becoming one of the most celebrated artists in East Africa, Redsan has paved the way for many aspiring artists. His collaborations, consistency, and global appeal have made him a true legend in the industry.
As the King of Dancehall, Redsan continues to inspire and entertain, both locally and internationally. His influence on East African music, combined with his ability to remain relevant in a constantly evolving industry, has solidified his place as one of the region’s most iconic artists.
With over 20 years in the music business, Redsan’s journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the power of staying true to one’s craft. Much respect to Redsan—the King of Dancehall!
