Who Is Madi Gagah???

Madi Gagah – Photo Courtesy.

Madi Gagah is a Kenyan rapper and songwriter. Known for his progressive musical styles and witty songwriting skills, he is often considered one of the most talented artists of his generation when it comes to Kenyan Hip-hop. He is also regarded as one of the greatest rappers of his time.

Musiq Jared had a one-on-one interview with him, and he shared his perception of Kenyan music, Insights on his musical journey, challenges he has faced in the industry and his experience working with legendary the late Chris Kantai.

For those who don’t know you, who is Madi Gagah?

I am a recording artist, rapper, songwriter & executive producer.

When did you start music, what inspired you?

It was a series of events, first Time I listened to Kantai, That did It, started composing my raps & poems and at 11 or 12 years I played a few songs in front of my schoolmate until now, I still remember their reaction. And from that point I was hooked.

How do you describe the type of music you typically create?

I do Hip-hop, but sporadically, you will hear me flexing on a dancehall beat. I love to experiment with music, Sometimes my fans say I’m genreless. Lol.

After high school, you were signed to Jomino Records, how did it all start?

Back in high school, I had this friend who wanted me to lay a verse on his song. He took me to Jomino studios, where I met Steve… Who later signed me to the studio after high school, Jomino played a very vital role in shaping my craft.

Challenges you have faced since you have faced since you started doing music?

Trying to make a decent living off music in Kenya is hard, to my fellow artistes, make sure you have a side hustle.

What is your creative process like?

It starts in my mind as a melody or flow, then lyrics. Even after recording, I’m never satisfied. I always feel like I could have done better than take that lesson to the next song.

Let’s talk about your song, ‘Tusi Tundulane’ which you did feature Jimwat, what’s the story behind it?

Much Respect to Jimwat, I had gone to the studio to change a verse on ‘Tusi Tundulane’, then I met with Jimwat at the studio, we vibed and after there I asked him if he can give me a verse, He wanted to listen to the song and within 20 mins he had done a verse, he is a good-hearted guy.

You got off music and went to Qatar for work purposes, now you are back, are we going to see a re-branded Gagah?

Employment opportunities in Kenya are limited, music also doesn’t pay, so I decided to try luck in the Gulf, when leaving Kenya I had even hung the mic, after five years in the gulf , I’m now back. The passion is still there and ideas are flowing, the technique and music approach has also grown. I’m still Gagah and I haven’t rebranded.

You had an opportunity to work with the late Chris Kantai, how was the experience like working with the legend?

It was really dope working with him considering he’s one of my musical inspirations, it’s humbling, rest easy G.

What are some of the lessons you learned from him?

There’s this time when I was in college and Kantai called telling me, there were some Congolese guys who wanted to sign a contract with him, so he wanted me to accompany him.

We met the guys and after a successful meeting, they offered us some Cash to spend for the weekend, Chris took the cash and counted. It turned out to be 20k. To my surprise, he gave back the money and politely told them it wasn’t enough, considering how contract was appealing… Mind you, hatuna any ispokua fare. They ended up giving double of what they had offered.

Later on, I asked Chris why he refused the offer, he looked at me and responded, “Know your worth”. That’s the main lesson I learned from him, since then, things have never been the same again. Keep resting in peace, brother.

Grongi & Madi Gagah- Photo Courtesy.

You have a song with Nonini?, How did you guys meet

We met at Chaka road in a traffic jam. I was crossing the road then I saw him on his ride, since I have been his big fan, I approached him and introduced myself. We exchanged contacts, and we did a dope song, you all will love it once it’s released.

Apart from Music, What else do you do?

I’m an entrepreneur.

You take on the current state of Kenyan music?

We have come a long way, and we’re going far, there’s a lot of dope Kenyan content out there for consumption, but to get airplay, you have to be monies,. From DJs to radio presenters, not all of them, but some.

What’s next for Gagah?

Kuwapa Hits Vi MAJJOR Ama NONINI.

Shout-Outs?

Shout out to kdawg my producer, Whole team of truce label and G Grongi of Ukoo Flani Maumau.

Parting Shot?

Parting shot.. From Tusi Tundulane.. Hii economy inabidi ku punguza apetite ndio usikose Sana, iwe dish pombe ama wasichana.

Madi Gagah – Photo Courtesy.