Edmond “Tedd” Josiah (born 1970) is a Kenyan music producer, entrepreneur, and fashion innovator, celebrated for shaping the country’s modern sound and later venturing into the luxury fashion industry. Known as the “Godfather of Kenyan music production”, Josiah has worked with legendary artists and founded the Kisima Awards, Kenya’s premier annual music awards. Today, he is also recognized as the founder of JokaJok, a luxury leather goods brand inspired by his late wife.
Early Life
Tedd Josiah was born in Nakuru, Kenya, and raised by his grandmother before moving to Chicago, USA, to live with his father. His love for music was nurtured during regular visits to record stores with his father, where he became fascinated by vinyl, sound production, and global rhythms.
In 1981, Josiah returned to Kenya, bringing with him early influences that would later define his unique production style.
Music Career
Josiah is a self-taught producer whose career began in gospel music. He first joined the band Ebony Affair, and in 1993, co-founded the group Hart, which disbanded in 1995. That same year, he joined Sync Sound Studios, where his skills as a producer quickly elevated him to national recognition.
In 1999, Josiah launched Audio Vault Studios, later rebranded to Blu Zebra Studios in 2002. From here, he produced groundbreaking compilation albums such as “Kenyan: The First Chapter” and “Kenyan: The Second Chapter.” These projects introduced audiences to artists like Hardstone, Kalamashaka, Gidi Gidi Maji Maji, Necessary Noize, Jimmy Gathu, Pete Odera, Suzzana Owiyo, Achieng’ Abura, and Ugandan star Kawesa.
He became the go-to producer for Kenya’s rising stars, shaping the golden age of urban Kenyan music.
Kisima Awards
Tedd Josiah co-founded the Kisima Music Awards, an annual event celebrating excellence in the Kenyan music industry. In 2004, he controversially won the Producer of the Year Award, which he declined due to his role as an organizer. He later resigned as CEO of Kisima in 2005, but the awards remain part of his lasting contribution to Kenyan music.
Later Career and Entrepreneurship
In 2007, Josiah supported ODM’s Raila Odinga during the general elections. Following the post-election violence, he felt unsafe and relocated to London in 2008.
He returned to Kenya in 2015, launching the record label SwaRnB, which faced challenges and later folded. This prompted Josiah to pivot into entrepreneurship by establishing JokaJok, a luxury leather goods company.
JokaJok, founded in memory of his late wife Regina Katar, produces handcrafted designer bags from a workshop in Nairobi, employing local artisans. The brand merges art, craftsmanship, and legacy, making Josiah a respected name beyond music.
Personal Life
Tedd Josiah married Cynthia Akoth in 2002, and the couple had two children before divorcing in 2008.
In 2016, he met Regina Katar, who introduced him to the world of fashion. They married and welcomed a daughter, Jameela Wendo, in 2017. Tragically, Regina died just three months after Jameela’s birth due to complications from childbirth. Her passing inspired Josiah to create JokaJok in her honor, symbolizing resilience, love, and legacy.
Legacy
Tedd Josiah is remembered as a pioneer of Kenyan music production, who elevated the standards of recording and promoted talent across East Africa. Through Kisima Awards, he institutionalized the recognition of artistry in Kenya. His shift into fashion with JokaJok further cements him as a visionary entrepreneur who bridges music, culture, and design.
His story is one of reinvention, resilience, and lasting influence, both in music and in business.
Conclusion
The Tedd Josiah biography captures the journey of a man who shaped Kenya’s music scene and later transformed into a fashion innovator. From producing some of the nation’s most iconic artists to launching a global luxury brand, Josiah’s legacy reflects creativity, determination, and cultural pride.
