Kenya’s dynamic Gengetone music scene continues to thrive, and at the forefront of this movement is Sylvia Ssaru. The rap sensation has been building an impressive portfolio over the last few years, with hit after hit, cementing her position in the industry. Most recently, Ssaru made headlines with the overwhelming success of her latest track, Maintain Ivo Ivo, a collaboration with fellow rapper Trio Mio. On Friday, October 11, 2024, Ssaru appeared on TV 47, where she expressed her gratitude to fans for their continued support and reflected on the journey leading up to her latest accomplishment.
A Rising Star Reflects on Growth
Sylvia Ssaru, or Ssaru as she is popularly known, has been a significant figure in the Kenyan Gengetone genre. Her rise to stardom is a testament to her work ethic, determination, and authentic voice that resonates with her audience. While reflecting on the success of Maintain Ivo Ivo, she acknowledged the significance of the song in her career.
“This song is massive,” Ssaru stated proudly during her interview on TV 47. She beamed with happiness as she spoke about her growth as an artist and the many milestones she has achieved since her debut. “If you deal with Ssaru, huruma ni estate,” she said playfully, using the Swahili phrase to imply that sympathy or care is as commonplace as a neighborhood. It was clear from her demeanor that she was not only proud of her achievements but also incredibly grateful to her fans for supporting her journey.
With millions of streams and an ever-growing fanbase, Ssaru’s star continues to rise. Her latest track, Maintain Ivo Ivo, is just the latest in a long list of songs that have captured the attention of Gengetone lovers across Kenya and beyond.
The Making of Maintain Ivo Ivo
One of the most interesting aspects of Ssaru’s recent success is the backstory behind the making of Maintain Ivo Ivo. The song was not an overnight creation, as many might assume. In fact, Ssaru revealed that the track had been in the works for quite some time.
“I recorded the song last year, around this same time in October,” she said during the interview. Despite the song’s catchy beats and infectious energy, Ssaru admitted that she wasn’t entirely sure about the track initially. “I held onto it because I had other projects, and it was supposed to be part of my EP,” she explained. Ssaru’s decision to delay the release of the song turned out to be a wise one, as it gave her time to perfect the track and prepare for its release.
The collaboration with Trio Mio was another key element of the song’s success. Ssaru shared how she sent the track to Trio after recording her part, and the young rapper took about a week to add his verse. “I held onto it for around four months,” she revealed, further explaining that she was working on other things during that time and wanted to ensure that the song would make a significant impact once it was released.
A Visual Experience
Music in today’s world is as much about the visuals as it is about the sound, and Ssaru understood the importance of pairing her music with a captivating visual experience. Once she felt ready to release Maintain Ivo Ivo, she knew that a music video would elevate the track to new heights.
“I decided to shoot a visual for the song,” Ssaru said, adding that the decision came after taking some time away from the limelight. Her fans had noticed her brief absence from the music scene, and the release of Maintain Ivo Ivo marked her return in a big way. The music video was met with rave reviews and has since accumulated millions of views on YouTube.
“The song is at 3 million views right now,” Ssaru proudly announced during the interview. The rapid success of the track is a testament to the strength of Ssaru’s fanbase and the appeal of the song itself.
Reflections on Kenyan Rap
Throughout the interview, Ssaru reflected on her place in the Kenyan rap scene. Despite her success, she remains humble and grounded, always looking for ways to improve and evolve as an artist. Her journey has not been without challenges, but she has consistently overcome obstacles and emerged stronger each time.
The Gengetone genre, which blends elements of rap, dancehall, and traditional Kenyan music, has provided a platform for artists like Ssaru to express themselves and connect with a diverse audience. While the genre has faced criticism from some quarters, Ssaru believes that its unique sound and cultural significance make it a vital part of Kenya’s music landscape.
“Gengetone is here to stay,” Ssaru said confidently during the interview. She emphasized the importance of authenticity and staying true to one’s roots, both of which have been key factors in her success. By blending modern rap with traditional Kenyan sounds, Ssaru has managed to create a style that is uniquely her own, resonating with listeners from all walks of life.
The Future for Ssaru
As Maintain Ivo Ivo continues to climb the charts, fans are eagerly anticipating what’s next for Ssaru. She hinted at more projects in the pipeline, including the possibility of a new EP. While she didn’t give away too many details, it’s clear that Ssaru has big plans for the future.
“I’ve been working on a lot of things,” she said coyly, leaving fans excited for what’s to come. Her work ethic and dedication to her craft are evident in every project she takes on, and it’s clear that she’s not slowing down anytime soon.
In addition to her music, Ssaru has also expressed an interest in giving back to her community. During the interview, she quipped about caring for the elderly in retirement homes, saying, “Leave caring for the old folks in retirement homes; if you need care, go there—they need compassion.” While the comment was made in jest, it reflects Ssaru’s compassionate nature and desire to make a positive impact beyond the music industry.
Gratitude to Fans
Above all, Ssaru’s success with Maintain Ivo Ivo is a reflection of the strong bond she shares with her fans. Throughout her interview on TV 47, she repeatedly expressed her gratitude to those who have supported her career from the beginning.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without my fans,” she said earnestly. “Thank you for supporting me and for loving my music.”
As Maintain Ivo Ivo continues to gain traction, Ssaru’s fans can rest assured that there is much more to come from the talented artist. With her infectious energy, undeniable talent, and dedication to her craft, Ssaru is poised to continue making waves in the Kenyan music scene for years to come.
Conclusion
Sylvia Ssaru’s rise in the Kenyan music industry is a story of perseverance, talent, and the power of staying true to one’s roots. Her latest success with Maintain Ivo Ivo is just the latest chapter in what promises to be a long and illustrious career. As she continues to grow as an artist, one thing remains clear: Ssaru is here to stay, and her fans are more than ready to continue supporting her every step of the way.
