Kenyan music in the early 2000s was defined by a vibrant mix of genres, from Genge to Kapuka, with a growing influence of hip hop and pop culture. Among the groups that left a lasting mark during this era, but whose story is rarely told in full, is Wakimbizi. Though their presence on the airwaves was undeniable, their abrupt silence and the ever-evolving nature of music have left many fans wondering, “What happened to Wakimbizi?”
Who Were Wakimbizi?
Wakimbizi was a rap duo formed by two brothers, Maurice Masheti (known as Mariko) and Henry Masheti (also known as Mr. Filter). The brothers were born to a Ugandan father and a Kenyan mother, making them half-Ugandan and half-Kenyan. They spent part of their early life in Vumwangu, Uganda, living with their paternal uncle before relocating to Kenya in 1996 after their father’s passing. Both brothers had their musical roots in the church, where they were members of a choir, a background that laid the foundation for their future careers as rap artists.
Their passion for music was sparked by the influence of pioneering Kenyan rap group Kalamashaka, whose lyrical prowess and street-smart themes inspired a new generation of artists. By 1998, the Masheti brothers began crafting their own rhymes and performing under different groups. Mr. Filter formed a duo with Mr. Fix, while Mariko teamed up with Maliyamungu under the name Fresh MC’s. Despite performing separately, both groups were affiliated with the Wakimbizi Camp, which Mariko initiated.
The Rise of Wakimbizi
The brothers officially debuted as Wakimbizi in 2000 with their first single, Mimi Yow. While the song may not have been an immediate national hit, it made it to the top three on Capital FM’s popular Nine at Nine music show, hosted by the legendary Jimmy Gathu. This early success hinted at the group’s potential to shake up the music scene, and their breakthrough moment was just around the corner.
In 2004, Wakimbizi released the song that would catapult them to stardom: “Hallo Hallo”. Featuring their friend Andrew Mbogo, known as Andre, the song took Kenya by storm, quickly becoming one of the most played tracks on radio and TV stations. The infectious chorus, “Hallo Hallo nataka kuongea na Mariko”, became a national sensation. At the peak of its popularity, Hallo Hallo even surpassed Wyre and Nazizi’s Kenyan Boy/Kenyan Girl on local music charts, a remarkable feat that showcased Wakimbizi’s influence.
Following the success of Hallo Hallo, Wakimbizi continued to dominate the airwaves with hits like:
- Nampenda John
- Nishike Pole Pole
- Honey
- Wajidanganya
Their catchy lyrics and memorable hooks made Wakimbizi household names, and they gained a reputation for their energetic performances and unique style of mixing rap with relatable, everyday themes.
Their Musical Legacy
Wakimbizi released three albums during their career, cementing their place in Kenyan music history. Their impact extended beyond just their hits; they were part of the wave that established the roadmap for Kenyan pop and rap music in the early 2000s. By daring to be different and blending their Ugandan-Kenyan heritage into their music, they helped shape the evolution of the local music industry.
Wakimbizi’s approach to storytelling in their songs, often humorous and playful, resonated with listeners across different generations. Tracks like Hallo Hallo became more than just songs—they were cultural moments that captured the energy and creativity of Kenya’s thriving music scene during that era.
The Silence: What Happened to Wakimbizi?
Despite their undeniable success, Wakimbizi eventually faded from the limelight without much explanation. This silence left many fans wondering why such a successful duo suddenly disappeared from the scene. There are several factors that may have contributed to their hiatus, including the shifting dynamics of the music industry, the rise of new genres like Gengetone, and personal priorities.
In recent years, Gidi Gidi of Gidi Gidi Maji Maji commented on the mutating nature of Kenyan music, and Wakimbizi may have found it challenging to adapt to these changes. Additionally, members of the group pursued other interests outside of music, which naturally slowed down their recording and performance activities.
Life Beyond Music
Today, both Mariko and Mr. Filter have settled into a quieter life, residing in Mountain View Estate, Nairobi, where they are engaged in various business and economic activities. Their friend and former Wakimbizi member, Andre, relocated to Mombasa, where he is also involved in business following the dwindling fortunes of his music career.
Though they may not be in the spotlight anymore, Wakimbizi’s contribution to Kenyan music cannot be overlooked. Their music laid the groundwork for many artists that followed, and their songs continue to be remembered fondly by fans who grew up during the golden age of Kenyan hip hop.
A Lasting Impact
Wakimbizi may have gone silent, but their music remains a significant part of Kenya’s musical history. Their ability to create hit songs that resonated with people across the country, their blending of different cultural influences, and their willingness to experiment with language and style left a lasting impact on the industry.
To talk about Kenyan music, especially the evolution of pop and rap, without mentioning Wakimbizi is to overlook a crucial chapter in the nation’s musical journey. They are part of the legacy that helped shape the modern Kenyan music industry, and their influence continues to inspire new artists today.
Conclusion
Wakimbizi may not have had the longest run in the Kenyan music industry, but their impact was profound. From their chart-topping hit Hallo Hallo to their role in popularizing Kenyan rap, they helped define an era of music that is still cherished today. As we celebrate Kenyan music’s evolution, we must remember the pioneers like Wakimbizi who paved the way.
Big salute to Wakimbizi—the dynamic duo who rocked the Kenyan airwaves and left a lasting mark on the music scene.
