Iyanii, known for his hit single Pombe, has captured audiences with his high-energy beats and relatable lyrics. Yet behind the scenes, the artist faced a silent struggle in 2023: a deep depression that nearly derailed his career and life. For Iyanii, music became more than a profession it turned into a powerful form of therapy that helped him cope with the darkest moments in his life.
In an interview with Nairobi News, Iyanii revealed his journey through depression and how it ultimately inspired his latest song, Maisha, which features the celebrated artist Mejja. “There was a time when I was deeply depressed. Things just weren’t going right,” Iyanii admitted. This challenging period weighed heavily on him, and he began feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands and pressures. In response, he turned to the one thing that had always been there for him: music.
Music became Iyanii’s refuge, a space where he could pour out his emotions and find release. This introspective period led him to write Maisha, a song that has since resonated deeply with his fans. Known for its hopeful message, Maisha has become a reminder that life, despite its many struggles, can get better. The song’s poignant lyrics and soothing rhythm invite listeners to embrace resilience and courage, encouraging them to stay strong despite their hardships.
The creation of Maisha also marked a turning point in Iyanii’s life and career, as it led him to connect with Mejja on a profound level. Iyanii shared that the two artists found solace in each other’s company. “I called Mejja and told him I was going through a tough time. We were both facing our own challenges,” Iyanii explained. Through this shared vulnerability, the two musicians were able to channel their feelings into a collaboration that resonates deeply with their audience. For Iyanii, collaborating with Mejja a respected artist also known for his personal, authentic style brought a sense of camaraderie and validation that he wasn’t alone in his experiences.
Iyanii opened up about the reasons behind his depression, attributing it to the pressures of his life and career. As an artist in the public eye, he felt overwhelmed by the constant need to meet expectations, both his own and those of his fans. “Sometimes, it feels like everything is overwhelming, and you feel alone with no one to turn to,” he shared. This sense of isolation can often lead individuals into a spiral of despair, but Iyanii was fortunate to have supportive friends and colleagues who encouraged him to keep going. “I’m grateful for the people around me,” he said. “They lifted me up when I couldn’t see the way forward.”
In recent years, mental health has become a prominent topic, with more public figures opening up about their struggles. By sharing his journey, Iyanii hopes to normalize conversations about mental health and let others know they aren’t alone. Music, for Iyanii, is more than entertainment it’s a bridge to connect with listeners who may be going through similar battles. “I want people to hear my songs, whether in clubs, weddings, or at home, and feel uplifted,” he expressed. His goal is to create music that not only entertains but also inspires and brings hope to those who may be struggling.
Iyanii’s story underscores the power of music as a tool for healing and connection. His journey from darkness to light through music serves as an inspiring reminder that, despite the challenges, life can indeed get better. By sharing his vulnerabilities, Iyanii has given his fans a gift that extends beyond music: a message of hope and resilience that, no matter the struggles we face, there is always a way forward.
