Kenzo Matata on his new song ‘Prayer’ and his passion for playing football
Kenyan musician Kenzo Matata announced his return to the scene recently with a song named Prayer that has been receiving constant airplay and rave reviews since it was launched slightly over a month ago.
Nairobi News caught up with him to find out where he has been and the inspiration behind his new hit.
Where did the inspiration to write the new hit Prayer come from?
The inspiration for my new song prayer came from deep within. I have always wanted to do an uplifting song to help people get through different circumstances. I have been soul searching for a while and everything is explained in the song.
Why did you choose to do it in a reggae style?
First, it was produced by my good friend Hopetone Blaze of Everblazing Production, a Kenyan producer based in Germany. Reggae has always been a part of my life. If you listen to my previous songs Zam Zam and Mama the reggae version you will get that reggae vibe.
The only problem was that at that time reggae was taken to be music for the oppressed and associated with bad things in our society, so my label then chose to fuse my style (reggae) with what was accepted at that time in Kenya and Africa as a whole.
You have worked with many production houses, including Ogopa where you started, how is it now working with Everblazing Productions? Is this your new home?
Working with Everblazing Production is a whole different vibe. Ogopa opened doors for me musically but at some point, I felt like I was stagnant so I opted to choose to work with different producers to try spread my wings. But I am still very good friends with Lucas of Ogopa Deejays – he is the one who does mixing and mastering to most of my songs.
But working with a producer who has worked with the likes of Sizzla, Mavado, Gentleman, and other renowned reggae artistes is a big step in the right direction for me. I am trying to get that international connection going on!
Would you say ‘Zam Zam’ opened the musical doors for you?
Actually Mama Milka opened doors for me, but Zam Zam cemented my spot in the Kenyan music scene
You haven’t been in the limelight for a while, what have you been doing?
First of all, I thank God for the gift and allowing me to be still here, bearing in mind I have lost a lot of friends over the years. Personally, I have been recording and playing football. Yes! I am still an active footballer, playing in the Kenyan lower leagues. I play for South B Allstars, but currently, I am on loan to South B United Sports Academy (SUSA).
Tell us more about your other side of life – goalkeeping
This was meant to have been my full-time career, but at that time football wasn’t really paying and I had just lost my mother, so when the music opportunity came, I took it with both hands. Goalkeeping has always been a part of me.
You also do alcohol deliveries – how did this start and how has it been so far?
This is something I started as a side hustle after I had taken a break off the music. I am privileged to own a Wines and Spirits shop which is now doing well thanks to my friends and fans
You are also a family man now, how has it been for you?
Being a father is something that every man who is ready should experience! It gave me a purpose in life and it’s always a good feeling knowing that you have people to take care of. My new song Prayer is also a dedication to my son Tumiso.
What next for Kenzo Matata as far as music is concerned?
Right now I am taking it as it comes! I am working on a reggae album which will capture all aspects but that doesn’t mean you won’t be hearing my music that people are used to.