This archive report was first published on 30 June 2020.
June 30, 2020, marked the peak of Gengetone music's popularity in Kenya. However, over the past two years, the hype surrounding this genre has slowly faded.
Gengetone artists, including Ochunglo Family, Boondocks Gang, Sailors, Ethic Entertainment, Rico Gang, and 34 GVNG, rode the wave to popularize their brands. However, their music, which often glorified sex, failed to resonate with Kenyans beyond a certain point.
As COVID-19 restrictions shut down clubs, a significant platform for Gengetone music, the genre's popularity continued to decline. The pandemic accelerated the shift in Kenyan music preferences, with artists like Femi One, Otile Brown, and Arrow Bwoy reclaiming their fans.
Gengetone artists now face an uncertain future, struggling to find a unique sound that appeals to Kenyan audiences. To revive their careers, they must reflect on their past mistakes and explore new creative avenues.
With Kenyans known for their fast-changing tastes, Gengetone artists must act quickly to revive their careers. The sooner they adapt to the changing music landscape, the better their chances of success.
