This archive report was first published on 24 November 2019.
Kenyan singer J.S Ondara has made history by being nominated for the prestigious 62nd Grammy Awards, set to take place on January 26, 2020.
Released in February 2019, Ondara's debut album Tales of America has earned him a spot in the best Americana Album category, a testament to his musical talent.
With 11 songs that tell the story of an immigrant's life in America, the album has resonated with music lovers worldwide.
Born and raised in Nairobi, Ondara's love for music began at a young age, but his family's financial constraints made it difficult for him to pursue his passion.
However, his luck changed when he won a green card lottery at the age of 20, allowing him to move to the United States and pursue a career in music.
Settling in Minnesota, Ondara's idol Bob Dylan's home state, he taught himself to play and eventually landed on the Billboard charts, including the Emerging Artist feature in March 2019.
