Victoria Kimani (born 28 July 1985) is a Kenyan Afropop singer, songwriter, and entertainer renowned for her bold style and international collaborations. She first gained continental fame after signing with Chocolate City, a Nigerian record label, where she became the first female artist under its roster.
Known for hit singles like Mtoto, Show, and Loving You, Kimani has built a reputation as one of Kenya’s most versatile female artists. Her debut album Safari (2017) featured collaborations with top African musicians including Sarkodie, Khuli Chana, Jesse Jagz, Phyno, and Ice Prince, establishing her as a leading voice in African pop music.
In addition to her music, Victoria Kimani has also appeared in film, most notably 7 Inch Curve, showcasing her versatility as an entertainer.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Victoria Kimani was born on 28 July 1985 in Kenya. She began her career performing back-up vocals for Mercy Myra, an experience that introduced her to professional music and required extensive travel. This early exposure inspired her to drop out of school to pursue music full-time.
Her breakthrough came in 2012 when she recorded Love to Love with Russian rapper Timati, shortly before his album Swagg was released. That same year, she joined Chocolate City, making history as the label’s first female signing.
Music Career
Victoria Kimani officially debuted in 2013 with her single Mtoto, whose video was shot in Los Angeles. The track became an instant hit, cementing her place in the Afropop scene.
Between 2014 and 2016, she released several successful singles including:
- Show (produced by Tekno Miles)
- Two of Dem
- Loving You
- Booty Bounce (featuring Tanzanian stars Diamond Platnumz and Ommy Dimpoz)
- All the Way (featuring Khuli Chana)
In 2015, Kimani joined forces with One Campaign and seven other African female musicians to record the empowerment anthem Strong Girl, which called for global gender equality.
Her highly anticipated debut studio album, Safari, was released in December 2017, combining Afropop, R&B, and hip-hop influences.
After the album’s release, she announced that her contract with Chocolate City had ended, marking the start of her journey as an independent artist.
Awards and Recognition
Victoria Kimani’s music has earned her multiple nominations across Africa and internationally, including:
- 2013 Channel O Music Video Awards – Nominated for Most Gifted Newcomer Video and Most Gifted R&B Video.
- 2014 AFRIMMA Awards – Nominated for Best Female Artist East Africa.
- 2015 African Entertainment Awards USA – Nominated for Best International Female Artist.
- 2016 Kora Awards – Nominated for Best Female Artist – East Africa.
These nominations reflect her influence as one of Kenya’s most recognized female Afropop artists.
Discography
Studio Albums
- Safari (2017)
Selected Singles
- Mtoto (2013)
- Show (2014)
- Two of Dem (2015)
- Loving You (2016)
- Booty Bounce (2016)
- All the Way ft. Khuli Chana (2016)
Legacy and Influence
Victoria Kimani is celebrated not only for her music but also for her role in empowering women through art and activism. Her bold fashion, distinct sound, and cross-border collaborations have positioned her as one of the most influential female voices in African pop music.
She continues to inspire a generation of African artists to pursue global recognition while staying rooted in their unique cultural identity.
