Celebrated Kenyan percussionist, vocalist, and guitarist Kasiva Mutua has released a new single, Ndikweteela, setting the stage for her highly anticipated debut album Desturi, scheduled for release on February 14, 2025. The single, accompanied by a visually stunning music video, marks a significant milestone in her musical evolution.
Ndikweteela delves into the complexities of long-distance relationships, encapsulating the pain, heartbreak, and insecurities that arise in separation. Kasiva describes the song as both a final farewell and a journey of healing and renewal. The track masterfully conveys the irony of infidelity and the bittersweet emotions of love unraveling over time.
“The song reflects the heartbreak, insecurities, and irony of infidelity in separation,” Kasiva explains. “It is a tender apology and a resolute embrace of healing and renewed joy.”
The accompanying music video, shot in the breathtaking landscape of Ol Donyo Nyokie in Kenya, pays homage to Maasai culture while reinforcing Kasiva’s status as a groundbreaking artist. In a symbolic scene, a Maasai man dances alongside her as she plays the drum an instrument traditionally reserved for men in many African cultures. This powerful imagery highlights Kasiva’s defiance of gender norms and celebrates her transformative influence in the world of percussion.
Kasiva’s music has always been deeply rooted in African traditions, and Ndikweteela is no exception. Sung in Kamba, the track showcases a rich blend of African sounds, incorporating the rhythmic influences of Maloya music from La Réunion, Chakacha beats from coastal Kenya, and Isukuti rhythms from Western Kenya. The fusion of these styles results in a vibrant and soulful melody that captures the essence of African musical heritage.
Having built a reputation as one of Africa’s leading percussionists, Kasiva is now stepping into the spotlight as a vocalist and storyteller. Ndikweteela signals a new artistic direction, one that blends her percussive mastery with her unique voice, offering listeners a deeply personal and resonant musical experience.
With Desturi on the horizon, fans can expect an album that celebrates African heritage, challenges societal norms, and cements Kasiva Mutua’s place as a trailblazer in contemporary African music.
