WINYO

Bio

The Benga King 

Winyo is one of Kenya's most cherished contemporary artists. ​​Born Shiphton Onyango, his stage name is derived from the Luo word for ‘bird’, a fitting moniker for his ethereal vocals. 

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.

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 talent and distinct musical style have earned him a dedicated fan base in East Africa and international acclaim. He has received multiple nominations in the Radio France International (RFI) Discoveries competition, where he was shortlisted in both 2010 and 2011, and collaborated with musical legends from around the world - from Joss Stone to Vieux Farka Toure, Gilberto Gil to Oliver Mutukudzi. 

The international release of his debut album Benga Blues in 2012 solidified his status as one of Kenya’s most cherished musical treasures. He went on to release a series of collaborative EPs and singles with a host of East Africa’s finest contemporary artists, including most recently featuring on the latest project from Fancy Fingers, the solo project of Grammy Award-winning guitarist and producer Polycarp Otieno of Kenyan Afro-pop band Sauti Sol. 

In the late 2010s, Winyo took a hiatus from music amidst a time of personal struggle. Now, having signed with legendary Kenyan label Ketebul Music and British indie label 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, and a celebration of resilience and the 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.

Press photo credits: Rich Allela