NAIROBI, KENYA – The UnKut Hip Hop Awards organizing committee is proud to announce "Africa's Hip Hop Lives Here" as the official theme for this year's gala, scheduled for December 4th. This theme marks a deliberate return to the foundational roots of Kenyan hip hop, celebrating a golden era that saw pioneers like Kalamashaka gain continental recognition and set a pace for other African nations.
According to UnKut Africa CEO, Ruby V, the theme is a statement of ownership and pride. "Forget Nigeria, forget South Africa, forget Tanzania or wherever—Kenya is where it is at," she stated, emphasizing the awards' commitment to showcasing Kenya's enduring legacy as a hip hop powerhouse.
Introducing the 2024 UnKut Awards Judging Panel
The UnKut Hip Hop Awards is pleased to unveil its four-member judging panel, which includes new additions Otieno Arudo (aka Mesh Mwandishi) and Ado Veli, who join returning jurists Ashley Mwari and Wycliffe Lagat. Each brings a unique perspective and deep understanding of the culture to the awards.
Ado Veli, founder of the Ado Veli Podcast, has spent seven years championing Kenyan music and emerging artists. He believes the theme is about consistency. "No matter the trends or genres that come and go, we always hold it down for Hip Hop," he said. "We don’t chase waves, we create culture."
Ashley Mwari, a cultural tastemaker and A&R at Budhouse Music, sees Kenya at the heart of the continent's hip hop story. "Kenya is not just part of the African hip hop story—it’s right at the center of it," she said. "Our culture, our voices, and our creativity continue to shape and inspire the continent."
Otieno Arudo (aka Mesh Mwandishi), a Nairobi-based culture writer, views the theme as a reflection of the culture's dynamic nature. "Hip hop in Kenya is just so undeniably alive," he stated, highlighting its evolution across various art forms, from fashion and graffiti to the music itself.
Wycliffe Lagat, an Economist and Operations Specialist at ONErpm Kenya, and founder of Ngoma Charts, looks forward to celebrating diversity. He notes that "every beat, language, and rhythm tells a story that shapes unique cultures," and he is eager to see that richness on display.
The UnKut Draft Picks: A New Class of Talent
The panel's first official task will be to select ten of the most promising emerging rappers for the inaugural UnKut Draft Picks. Inspired by the renowned XXL Freshman class, the Draft Picks will be featured in two distinct cyphers, with five performers in each. This initiative is designed to identify and elevate the next generation of hip hop stars, much like the first UnKut Awards did for artists who have since risen to prominence, such as Jakk Quill.
2025 Theme It is “Africa’s Hiphop Lives Here” showing a deliberate decision of the awards to return to its basics.
Stay tuned to Micshariki Africa for further updates.