Winyo
Winyo is one of Kenya's most cherished contemporary artists. Celebrated for his extraordinary ability to blend traditional Benga music with Afro jazz, country, R&B, and blues, his music transcends boundaries, connecting hearts and souls across the globe.
Derived from the Luo word for "bird," Winyo's moniker aptly captures the ethereal quality of his voice. His music is deeply rooted in the Benga tradition, a genre he has revitalised while preserving the distinctive guitar techniques of legends such as Ochieng’ Nelly and George Ramogi.
Winyo's distinct musical style has not only earned him a dedicated fan base in East Africa but also international acclaim. In 2010 and 2011, Winyo was named runner-up for the prestigious Radio France Internationale Discoveries Music Award. This accolade set the stage for the release of his critically acclaimed debut album, Benga Blues, in 2012. The album was a testament to Winyo's innovative approach to music, combining soulful melodies with heartfelt storytelling.
Benga Blues captivated audiences in East Africa and beyond, leading to an international tour, with performances at the Library of Congress in the USA, and festivals such as Musique Metisses in France, the Africa Festival: Wurzburg, Germany the Festival for African Fashion and Arts FAFA. Singing in English, Swahili and Dholuo, Winyo has worked with musical legends from around the world - from Joss Stone to Vieux Farka Toure, Gilberto Gil to Oliver Mutukudzi. These collaborations have enriched his sound, and solidified his status as a unique and versatile global artist.
In the late 2010s, Winyo took a hiatus from music amidst a time of personal struggle. Now, having signed with Abubilla Music in 2024, he is making a powerful comeback. His highly anticipated second album, set for release in 2025, is a poignant meditation on grief, loss, and healing, while also celebrating the resilience and joy of life. As he prepares to share his new album with the world, Winyo's star continues to rise, reaffirming his place as one of Kenya's most cherished musical treasures.