Mtemi

Mtemi is a multifaceted artist who even though is a good rapper doesn’t like to be boxed into one genre. A qualified biotechnologist, Mtemi has been able to hit the musical lab to create good music for his fans that not only entertains but also educates the masses.

Tell us Briefly Who Is Mtemi?

Mtemi is the most authentic, talented and versatile artist in Kenya. My music entertains, inspires and educates. Birth name is Jacob Nyambu Mwata, born in Voi town, Taita Taveta County, 15th May 1994.

You did a song 'Tropical' featuring Breeder LW, What was the experience like working with him?

Tropical was my first song which went international, so am really proud of the project. Working with Breeder LW was both an inspiring and learning experience. Looking at my work after Tropical, it's clear that a lot has changed in terms of growth. Not only did Breeder LW give me a verse, but he also advised, and is still advising me on how to navigate in the game.

You hail from Taita Taveta, what plans do you have to impact your community through music?

My plans are always done in silence. However, the work am doing is already showing my people that nothing is impossible in this life. They know where I started, they see where I am and they have an idea of where am going. That in itself is a positive influence. One thing is for certain, I've already shown some how to be a top G.

How do you describe the type of music that you make?

Entertaining, educative, inspiring. Most importantly, it unites the community. This is to say that my lyrics have no age restriction. You can listen to my songs with your grandparents, without feeling awkward. I am also the most versatile artist in the world, meaning there's no genre that I cannot do at an excellent level.

What is the inspiration behind your hit song, ‘Holiday’?

Simply put, Holiday was about the end year festivities. That's why it entails the activities that happen during this period, including but not limited to saving money throughout the year, drinking, partying, road trips and yachting. Therefore, Holiday was a lil’ something for people to vibe with in the December holidays.

What makes you unique that you feel sets you apart from your peers in the industry?

Anytime I set out to work on a project, I have full understanding of the assignment. I observe the fundamental principles of music and art in general. Adding my unmatched inborn talent and exceptional acquired skills to this, am about to own this thing yoh. My versatility is another thing that sets me apart from my peers. Be it, Dancehall, Afro Beat, Jazz, Soukous, Rhumba, Reggae, you name it, I always keep it 100%.

Major achievements since you started doing music?

My biggest achievement was winning the PMVA award. Second biggest was being among the daily winners in the Odinare challenge run by Khaligraph Jones in conjunction with Odibets Kenya.

What’s your take on the current state of Kenyan Hip Hop?

Kenyan Hip Hop is alright. Considering the competitors, I would say Kenya is alright. I however plan to show them how it's done sooner rather than later. I am saying this because I think it can be much better. This is because despite there being so many amazing Hip Hop tracks artists out there, I haven't come across any that I can call immortal. Hiroshima came close though.

What plans do you have this year, 2023?

As I said, I make my plans in silence. However, let me make an exception with this in particular. 2023, three words, More Phenomenal Music.

Apart from music, what else do you do?

This is about my music, so let's stick to that.

Word to Kenyan Hip Hop fraternity?

You're alright. I however urge you to watch and learn.

Any collective project under your catalog?

A work in progress. An EP is in my plans this year. I will definitely let you know about it early enough.

Anybody you wanna shout out?

Big shout out to my top G X-Ray King, my mentor, the baddest punchline emcee I know. Big shout out to Ligi Soo Worldwide, let's keep working. Big shout out to Epic the DJ, Joedebestt, Claudia Naisabwa, Laura Mbatha, Silas Kwodi, Lilian Kang'ethe, Henric, my top G Nonini, my family and fans. Mtemi got love for y'all.

Parting Shot?

Nobody does it like me. Believe that.

Follow Mtemi on his social media handle;

Instagram: mtemi_afrika
Twitter: Mtemi_Afrika