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Kijana ish, known offstage as Ishmael Kitinya, is carving his own lane in the Kenyan music scene with his latest release, Not Accepted. This isn’t just an album—it’s a full-circle moment for an artist who has spent years reconciling his modern musical influences with the traditions of his homeland. The result is a body of work that feels deeply personal yet carries a universality that makes it impossible to ignore.
What makes Not Accepted stand out is the sheer variety of sounds it embraces. From the upbeat guitar lines of benga and the coastal sway of chakacha to the raw storytelling of mugithi, every track has a distinctly Kenyan heartbeat. Yet, these roots are seamlessly blended with Afrobeat grooves and the energetic punch of gengetone, reminding listeners that Kenyan music can stand tall on the global stage without losing its authenticity. It’s a balancing act few can pull off, but Kijana ish does it with finesse.
The album’s stories reflect resilience, self-discovery, and pride. Ishmael switches effortlessly between Swahili, Sheng, Kikuyu, and English, each language carrying its own emotional weight. In doing so, he makes Not Accepted not just an album for Kenyans but a unifying experience for anyone who values music that tells the truth of its people. The use of traditional instruments like the nyatiti alongside contemporary beats further amplifies that authenticity, grounding modern soundscapes in history and culture.
Beyond the music, this is Ishmael’s journey laid bare—his roots in church choirs, his growth through street cyphers, and his evolution into an artist who isn’t afraid to challenge norms while honoring heritage. With Not Accepted, Kijana ish doesn’t just share his own story; he gives a voice to the Kenya of today and tomorrow.
‘Not Accepted’ is a powerful fusion of tradition and modernity
Listen to ‘Not Accepted’ on all platforms here. Follow Kijana ish on Instagram
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