From the backstreets of Nairobi to international acclaim, Hubert Nakitare, popularly known as Nonini, has built a legacy that transcends music. A trailblazer, genre creator, fashion entrepreneur, and fearless advocate for artists’ rights, Nonini’s impact on Kenya’s creative economy is undeniable.
🎶 Humble Beginnings: From the Streets to the Studio
Nonini’s music journey began in the early 2000s when he released tracks that broke away from the dominant Kapuka style of the time. Born and raised in Nairobi’s California Estate, Nonini channeled his experiences into bold, street-savvy lyrics that resonated with urban youth.
His breakout hit “Manzi wa Nairobi” in 2002 introduced his unapologetically raw sound to the mainstream. With gritty beats, street slang, and authentic storytelling, Nonini laid the foundation for what would become a genre of its own—Genge.
🔊 Creating a Genre: The Birth of Genge
Genge music, co-developed with producer Clemo at Calif Records, fused Swahili, Sheng’, and English over hard-hitting beats. It gave Kenyan youth a voice—and a soundtrack—to their daily lives. Alongside artists like Jua Cali, Nonini positioned Genge as a legitimate urban genre.
Today, Genge is internationally recognized. In 2023, the Grammy Awards introduced the “Best African Music Performance” category, acknowledging genres like Genge, Bongo Flava, and Amapiano. This was a moment of pride for Kenya, a nod to the genre’s global resonance and Nonini’s vision two decades ago.
🧢 MGENGE2RU: Fashion Meets Cultural Identity
In addition to music, Nonini has ventured into fashion with his lifestyle and apparel brand Mgenge2RU. More than just merchandise, the brand represents authenticity, self-expression, and the confidence of Kenya’s urban culture.
MGENGE2RU apparel features bold, street-style designs that reflect Nonini’s music roots and connect with fans across generations. The brand continues to grow, becoming a symbol of identity for Genge loyalists and creatives who believe in staying true to their hustle.
From custom t-shirts and hoodies to accessories, Mgenge2RU is Nonini’s way of building an empire beyond music—one that empowers creatives to own their style, image, and brand.
Check out the collection at his official instagram account.
📢 Championing Artist Rights and Royalty Reform
Nonini is one of the few artists who have successfully transitioned from entertainer to policy influencer. In recent years, he’s become a leading voice in advocating for transparency in music royalties. He has consistently challenged collecting management organizations in Kenya for lack of accountability and fairness in distribution.
Through public advocacy, legal action, and his role in organizations like the Performers Rights Society of Kenya (PRSK), Nonini is calling for:
- Fair and timely payment of royalties to artists
- Government regulation of music licensing bodies
- Inclusion of artists in governance and decision-making
His efforts are helping reshape Kenya’s music ecosystem into a more just and sustainable industry for all creatives.
🌍 Legacy and Ongoing Impact
Nonini’s influence extends beyond the airwaves. He’s built a brand, pioneered a genre, and initiated crucial reforms. His ability to merge art, entrepreneurship, and advocacy makes him a model for the 21st-century African creative professional.
From his Genge roots to Grammy recognition, from fashion to royalty reform, Nonini is proof that staying true to one’s values can change the game—not just for oneself, but for a whole generation of artists.
Tags: Nonini, Genge Music, Kenyan Music Industry, Grammy Awards, Mgenge2RU, Fashion, Royalties, Artist Rights, Music Advocacy
Categories: Music, Culture, Creative Economy, Entrepreneurship
