This archive report was first published on 23 November 2019.
Kenyan singer J.S Ondara has made history by becoming the first Kenyan to be nominated for the prestigious Grammy Awards.
His debut album Tales of America, released in February 2019, has earned him a spot in the best Americana Album category for the 62nd Grammy Awards, scheduled for January 26, 2020.
The album, which features 11 songs based on the life of an immigrant in America, has been a huge success, with Ondara's unique voice and storytelling ability resonating with audiences worldwide.
Born and raised in Nairobi, Ondara's love for music began at a young age, but his family couldn't afford instruments, forcing him to rely on his voice to express himself.
After winning a green card lottery, Ondara moved to the US at the age of 20 and settled in Minnesota, where he taught himself to play music as he pursued a career in music.
His hard work paid off when he was featured on Billboard's Emerging Artist in March 2019 and landed on several Billboard charts, including the Heatseekers Album, Americana/Folk Album Sales, and Rock Album Sales charts.
