Mark Joshua Ouma (born 2 October 1990), popularly known as Teardrops, is a celebrated Kenyan spoken word artist and activist based in Nairobi. Recognized for his lyrical mastery, social commentary, and stage presence, Teardrops has risen to become one of East Africa’s leading voices in spoken word poetry. His unique blend of Sheng, Swahili, and English makes his work accessible and deeply relatable to diverse audiences.
Early Life and Education
Teardrops was born in Makongeni, Nairobi, and grew up in Kisulisuli, Nakuru. Exposed to the struggles of everyday life, he developed a strong sense of storytelling from a young age. By his teenage years, poetry became both a creative outlet and a tool for addressing social issues, shaping his journey into spoken word performance.
Career
Teardrops began performing professionally in 2009 and quickly established himself in Nairobi’s competitive poetry scene. He won the Slam Africa Competition (2009) and the Kwani Open Mic Slam (2013), which propelled him into the spotlight.
In 2014, he co-launched his debut album Unchained Voices alongside fellow poet Mufasa at the Alliance Française in Nairobi. The sold-out event marked his entry into the mainstream art scene. His second album, Shengspear: Memoirs of a Wordsmith (2017), cemented his reputation as a powerful lyrical force.
That same year, he was featured on the Churchill Show, where he performed poetry for multiple seasons, reaching millions of viewers across Kenya.
Teardrops has headlined major cultural events including the African Union Conference, the Garissa Memorial Concert (2015), and international collaborations on climate change and social justice with partners such as the German and French Embassies.
Awards and Recognition
Teardrops has earned numerous accolades for his work:
- 2009 – Winner, Slam Africa
- 2013 – Winner, Kwani Open Mic Slam
- 2014 – Pillars of Africa Award (Male Arts & Culture)
- 2014 – Nominated, Honesty Oscars Awards (Best Activism Award)
His poetry has been featured in the Daily Nation, People’s Daily, and on NTV’s The Trend, AM Live, and KTN.
Legacy and Impact
Beyond entertainment, Teardrops is known for using poetry as a tool for activism and awareness, particularly around themes of inequality, poverty, and governance. His performances at events like the OXFAM poverty report launch (2017) highlight his commitment to social justice.
By blending sharp social critique with artistry, Teardrops continues to influence Kenya’s cultural landscape, inspiring a new generation of poets and activists.
