Renowned Gengetone artist Mejja, also known as Okwonkwo, has cemented his place as one of Kenya’s most beloved musicians over the past 17 years. His ability to remain in high demand and consistently booked for performances and collaborations is a testament to a carefully crafted strategy. Mejja recently shared insights into his enduring success, emphasizing the importance of being unique and maintaining high standards in the competitive music industry.
The Power of Rarity
Mejja attributes his staying power to embracing uniqueness and positioning himself as a rare gem in the industry. “One important lesson I’ve learned as an artist is that art should be rare. Anything rare holds more value. If you become too common, your value diminishes,” Mejja explained.
Using a simple analogy, he compared this concept to the construction industry. Just as rare materials like marble or gemstones command higher prices than sand, artists who offer something different are more likely to thrive. Mejja believes that standing out, both in music and personality, increases demand and adds long-term value.
Beyond Music: Building a Persona
For Mejja, rarity is not confined to his musical style. It extends to how he presents himself in his daily life. He avoids public transport and prefers private means, not out of luxury but as a way to enhance his mystique. “The more unique you are, the higher the demand. But it’s not just about being rare. You need good music, a solid character, and faith because God is above all,” he noted.
He recalled a recent commercial deal with East African Breweries Limited (EABL) that required him to take a matatu for the shoot. The experience, although uncommon for him, added a layer of relatability to his brand while simultaneously earning him income.
Striking a Balance in Content
Mejja’s versatility as an artist lies in his ability to cater to a wide audience. While some criticize the themes of his lyrics, he is unapologetic about his approach. “I can’t just write songs for my family. What about the music Kenyans love? I have to write about things like parties, women, and alcohol because that’s what the people understand and relate to,” he said.
However, Mejja strives to strike a balance by ensuring his songs can resonate with both young and older audiences. He views music as a business and crafts his content based on what his fans desire, maintaining a connection with his diverse audience.
Longevity Through Consistency
Seventeen years in the industry is no small feat, and Mejja attributes his longevity to authenticity, hard work, and unwavering faith. He believes that remaining true to oneself while continuously evolving is essential for sustained success. Mejja’s ability to adapt to changing trends without losing his identity is what keeps him relevant.
He acknowledges that critics will always exist, but he views their opinions as reflections of their perspectives. To him, what matters most is staying true to his vision and creating music that connects with people.
Lessons for Upcoming Artists
Mejja’s journey is a masterclass in creating value through rarity. He encourages budding artists to find their unique voice, maintain authenticity, and focus on quality over quantity. His message is clear: standing out in a crowded industry requires intentional effort, faith, and a deep understanding of one’s audience.
As Mejja continues to dominate the Gengetone scene, his philosophy of being “rare” and relatable serves as a blueprint for any artist aspiring to achieve lasting success. With his unwavering commitment to his craft, Mejja proves that staying unique is not just a strategy it’s a lifestyle.
