Kenyan Afro-pop pioneer Bensoul has unveiled a new single, 'Mariwana,' featuring contemporary artist Ywaya Tajiri, marking their second collaborative project following hits like 'Send it' and 'Kesha.' The track, described by Bensoul as an 'affirmation to women who believe in themselves,' centers on 'deep intimacy, uninhibited passion, and hypnotic chemistry.' The artists emphasized the organic nature of their creative partnership, with Tajiri contributing lyrics to previous collaborations. Bensoul, known for his multi-instrumental talents and work with Sol Generation, highlighted the song’s focus on 'being completely present' and celebrating 'warmth, passion, and true connection in the moment.'
Produced by MP Jazbeatz and engineered by Trevor Magak, 'Mariwana' opens with an acoustic guitar intro before evolving into a bass-driven groove layered with percussion and electric drum dynamics. Sung in a blend of English and Swahili, the track balances 'playful energy with emotional directness.' A visualiser accompanying the release reinforces the song’s 'warm, sensory aesthetic.' The project arrives as Bensoul expands his international presence through his independent label Lion of Sudah, following sold-out tours in Europe and Australia, and nominations at AFRIMA and SAMA Awards. Tajiri, a key figure in Kenya’s urban contemporary scene, brings his 'texture, tight harmonies, and emotive vocal versatility' to the collaboration, building on his prior work with duo Watendawili and viral hit 'Chai ya saa kumi.'
Bensoul’s career spans over a decade, including breakthroughs with Sol Generation’s 'Lucy' and 'Nairobi,' and co-writing credits on Burna Boy’s Grammy-winning album 'Twice As Tall.' His independent imprint has facilitated global reach, while Tajiri’s rise reflects Kenya’s growing influence in Afro-pop. The single’s release underscores the evolving landscape of African music, where cross-genre collaborations and bilingual artistry resonate with diverse audiences. Industry observers note the track’s potential to further solidify Bensoul’s reputation as a boundary-pushing artist and Tajiri’s emergence as a versatile voice in Kenyan music.
The collaboration highlights the cultural significance of Afro-pop as a medium for exploring personal and collective narratives. By blending intimate storytelling with rhythmic innovation, 'Mariwana' contributes to ongoing conversations about identity, empowerment, and artistic evolution in East Africa. With its release, Bensoul and Tajiri join a lineage of Kenyan musicians shaping global soundscapes, while reaffirming the continent’s role as a hub for innovative, socially resonant music.
Bensoul and Ywaya Tajiri Unveil Sultry Collaboration 'Mariwana' Amid Rising Afro-Pop Influence
Kenyan Afro-pop pioneer Bensoul has unveiled a new single, 'Mariwana,' featuring contemporary artist Ywaya Tajiri, marking their second collaborative project following hits like 'Send it' and 'Kesha.' The track, described by Bensoul as an 'affirmation to women who believe in themselves,' centers on 'deep intimacy, uninhibited passion, and hypnotic chemistry.' The artists emphasized the organic nature of their creative partnership, with Tajiri contributing lyrics to previous collaborations. Bensoul, known for his multi-instrumental talents and work with Sol Generation, highlighted the song’s focus on 'being completely present' and celebrating 'warmth, passion, and true connection in the moment.'
Produced by MP Jazbeatz and engineered by Trevor Magak, 'Mariwana' opens with an acoustic guitar intro before evolving into a bass-driven groove layered with percussion and electric drum dynamics. Sung in a blend of English and Swahili, the track balances 'playful energy with emotional directness.' A visualiser accompanying the release reinforces the song’s 'warm, sensory aesthetic.' The project arrives as Bensoul expands his international presence through his independent label Lion of Sudah, following sold-out tours in Europe and Australia, and nominations at AFRIMA and SAMA Awards. Tajiri, a key figure in Kenya’s urban contemporary scene, brings his 'texture, tight harmonies, and emotive vocal versatility' to the collaboration, building on his prior work with duo Watendawili and viral hit 'Chai ya saa kumi.'
Bensoul’s career spans over a decade, including breakthroughs with Sol Generation’s 'Lucy' and 'Nairobi,' and co-writing credits on Burna Boy’s Grammy-winning album 'Twice As Tall.' His independent imprint has facilitated global reach, while Tajiri’s rise reflects Kenya’s growing influence in Afro-pop. The single’s release underscores the evolving landscape of African music, where cross-genre collaborations and bilingual artistry resonate with diverse audiences. Industry observers note the track’s potential to further solidify Bensoul’s reputation as a boundary-pushing artist and Tajiri’s emergence as a versatile voice in Kenyan music.
The collaboration highlights the cultural significance of Afro-pop as a medium for exploring personal and collective narratives. By blending intimate storytelling with rhythmic innovation, 'Mariwana' contributes to ongoing conversations about identity, empowerment, and artistic evolution in East Africa. With its release, Bensoul and Tajiri join a lineage of Kenyan musicians shaping global soundscapes, while reaffirming the continent’s role as a hub for innovative, socially resonant music.