Joel Ngito (@joelngito) is an upcoming pop artist with a unique approach to music that is solely based on his voice. He is embracing Contemporary Urban Style to create music that tells a story about the rich cultural diversity of Africa through love, art and history..

1.Did you always know you wanted to be a musician? How did you get into music?

Yes, I definitely did know that I wanted to be a musician when I was young. There was just nothing to push me to it then because education was the biggest emphasis in my family. My sister was the daring one who opened up about becoming a musician when she grew up. That was really motivating to me. I got into music by doing small presentations at school, both at elementary and high school. Three years after I cleared high school, I recorded my first song, “Make It Right” and that was the start for me.

2. What is your creative process like?

I’d say that it is really interesting. I could be working, studying, doing laundry or any other thing when an idea pops in my mind. So I visualize it, take a pause to note down a few things and think it through to see what I can make of it. When I’m done, I usually know what I’ll be singing or going to record in the studio. So my creative process is definitely spontaneous.

3. How much do your life experiences influence your work?

I’d truly say by a significant percentage. My music is about love whether it is Philia, Eros, Pragma or Ludus. It highlights love based on my experiences, beliefs and values as well as things I’ve learnt along the way from the people close to me.

4. How would you describe your music?

As a genre, I would say pop. Personally, I would describe it as a mixture of African music elements with styles such as Jazz, RnB, Afrobeat, Afropop, a bit of Classical, Soul, Funk and Rock. Of course, projects described as such are still in the kitchen. So it is unique.

5. Who are your favourite musicians and why?

Usher, Justin Timberlake and Chris Brown internationally. Locally, Muthoni Drama Queen, Wangechi, Le Band, Didge, Phy and Eric Wainaina. Usher has very clean vocals. His live performances are perfect. Justin Timberlake has a unique style. Le Band are my pals with a unique gift and I’ve seen their growth, which is truly inspirational. Phy is just flawless. MDQ, fiercest femcee I know in Kenya.

6. What are your thoughts on music in Kenya, what challenges have you faced as a musician and how do you think we can improve on the craft?

Music in Kenya is definitely amazing. I’ve been to quite a number of live music events and the talent in Kenya is just beyond words. It would be great if mainstream media showcased more of it. I’ve faced challenges financially, mentor-wise, marketing-wise just to name a few when doing my projects. I’m a one-man artist and basically do most of the stuff for myself. I have made some wrong choices at times because I’m not all-knowing technically, but that is just part of the journey. It has also taken me some time to get to do quality music because I started off with underground studios. This made it hard for me to submit my music to local TV and radio stations. I think Kenya can improve its craft by fully embracing its music and upholding it for the world to see.

7. What work/project are you most proud of?

So far, my most recent project “Take It Low”. I put immense effort in to see it come through and it has helped me get a number of fans, interviews on air and you know, build my portfolio as an artist.

8. What advice would you give an aspiring musician that you wish you had gotten when you were starting out?

The biggest excuse I had was, “I do not have enough cash to get me started and I want to really do quality stuff”. That kept me waiting for three years trying to balance school, a part-time job and music. So my advice to aspiring musicians is just take that bold step despite what you have at the moment. It is simply a journey. My next song that should be launched in several weeks clearly articulates it.

9. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Well, possibly with two albums to my name. It is one of the things I’ve promised myself to do as an artist. The music will definitely be love, inspiration and fun. I also see quite a number of collabos with various acts locally and internationally. I should also be a music mentor helping other artist nurture their talents and navigate the music industry successfully.

Bonus Question

10. If you could collaborate with any musician in the world, who would it be and why?

That would definitely be Zedd.  I think he is a genius and since I’m a pop artist, we could really do some amazing work together. His great hits such as “Stay”, “Clarity” and “Find You” were absolutely out of this world. So if I got a chance to work with him that would be really great.

Check out Joel’s profile and work below.

YouTube: Joel Ngito

Facebook: Joel Ngito

Twitter: @joelngito

Sound Cloud: Joel Ngito

Website: https://joelngito.wordpress.com/

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Joel Ngito (@joelngito) is an upcoming pop artist with a unique approach to music that is solely based on his voice. He is embracing Contemporary Urban Style to create music that tells a story about the rich cultural diversity of Africa through love, art and history.. 1.Did you always know...