E-Slum

Brian Mumo better known as E-Slum is a hip-hop artiste with an expansive 12-years’ experience doing music with albums, mixtapes and videos to his music portfolio. E-Slum knew from very young he wanted to do music and even took time to learn production when he was still in school. When he was still in high school, he joined Kambi ya Mawe a group of young talents based in Machakos where he would do mixtapes and learn a few skills in production.

When he was 17, he participated in Uhuru Live Contest hosted by Ken Cell Company, completely unprepared and came top of over a hundred rappers in Machakos. He was also amongst the top 10 finalists in the country and was awarded 300 US dollars in prize money. That also gave him the privilege to appear in the Insyder magazine.

After high school he was too certain what life path he was to follow and joined Homeboyz Music Technology Academy to learn music production.

E-Slum draws inspiration for his music from personal experiences in life and from stories of people that he knows of that are so deep, true and have no platform to be shared to the world. He wants to teach the community through his music that nothing is impossible, to never give up and give hope to every dreamer.

He puts his dream as "I want to be a superstar. I want the world to know that E-Slum was born; to know me for my art, my music. If I had all the money in the world would I still be doing what am doing? The answer is yes."

For those who are unfamiliar, who is E-Slum?

E-Slum is a rapper, songwriter, composer and a producer

When did it all start and how has the process been like?

As far as I can remember I first became interested in rapping at a young age of 9 years old, used to rap in class while in primary though most of the verses I used to rap were other artists’ songs and verses my brothers used to write for me. I composed my first song back in 2003 at the age of 13. Recorded my first song at the age of 16 when I was in form 2, that was 2006. Managed to record my first album when I was 18.

How do you put words to paper, what's your creative process like?

I get the flow right first, then put it on paper but not until I have at least 8 to 10 bars and from there everything falls into place. Sometimes I just record without writing especially when I'm in the zone.

Growing up who were some of your biggest musical influences that you would say you are like them?

Nanoma, Chiwawa, K-South, Bamboo, Kitu Sewer, Kalamashaka, Ukoo Flani, Mau Mau, Kantai, Nako2Nako. Abroad, Tupac, Snoop, Dr. Dre, Bone Thugs n Harmony, Eminem, Nas, Lost Boyz, Dilated Peoples

What are some of your achievements as a rapper?

Back in 2007 while still in high school at the age of 17 I was part of a national rap contest sponsored by Kencell and Homeboyz of which I emerged as the number one finalist in the region out of like a hundred contestants, made the finals at Uhuru Gardens of which Mejja won, though I was amongst the top 20 finalists in the whole country.

What is your take on the current state of KE Hip-hop?

I can say hip-hop has grown a lot compared to back in the days, it's become more competitive and that's a good thing

In these uncertain times (Covid 19). What have you done to stay creative & relevant? What's your take on blogs like Micshariki Africa that are trying to play a role of ensuring East Africa Hip-hop gets big?

It's a good thing you guys are doing you know, helping people out there get to know more about artists

What makes you different from other rappers in the industry?

My delivery, flow and sound. I believe every artist is unique

How do you see your sound evolving in the next couple of years?

You know it's a process, but for those who'll be listening and watching they'll see the change. Watch this space

How do you feel the impact of internet in music industry?

It has made music more accessible to fans and also easier to market though it's made artists lazy!

Which hood do you represent and through hip-hop what have you done to impact your community?

I come from Machakos, Kenya and that's where I represent. On impact, I can say over the years I've been doing music I've inspired many youths and nurtured lots of young talent

Who are some of the individuals that you feel are getting it right in the culture that you would like to give a shout to?

Elisha Elai, Scar and Wakadinali as a crew, Kayvo Kforce, Monski, Maandy, Bey T, EMC, Oksyde, Vioxii... Just a few to mention

Word of advice to the upcoming artists who are really struggling hard to a point they just wanna give up?

Just keep working hard, be consistent and patient. Trust the process.

How many projects have you released so far?

Black Rap Era (debut album) - 2008
Black Rap Era 2 Mixtape - 2011
Before I Die Mixtape - 2014
Slumstar Mixtape - 2017
Hustle & Flow Ep - 2019

What's next for E-Slum?

Currently I'm on a break from music due to some personal issues though I've been watching, listening and observing the game but will be dropping new projects hopefully in a year or so.

Your official Social media/Music platforms?

Facebook: E-slum Slumstar
Instagram: E-Slum
SoundCloud: E-Slum
YouTube: E-Slum

Your Parting shot?

Always be you and keep it real.