The First Lady is Back! Nazizi Drops Feel-Good Anthem "Gai Fafa" After Time of Grief

Legendary Kenyan musician Nazizi has made a powerful return to the music scene with the release of her latest single, “Gai Fafa”.

Produced by the late Hilton Mwakio, popularly known as Herbalist, the track is a feel-good anthem that encourages listeners to let go of life’s burdens and choose celebration.

Nazizi describes the release as both a heartfelt tribute and a gift to her loyal fans. “This one is for the fans who have held me down for 25 years, especially during my recent time of grief.

I can’t express how much your DMs, messages and encouragement have meant to me. I needed to say thank you in the only way I know how – through music. And it’s also for Hilton. He loved this song so much and kept pushing me to release it. This one’s for him too,” she shared.

The vibrant music video was filmed in Arusha, Tanzania by director Okey and features electrifying choreography by Chiki and Kevo from The Dance Shagz (Kenya), performed by the talented Purple Dancers Crew.

The song was first performed live at Blankets & Wine in December 2024, where Nazizi asked the crowd if it should be released. Their enthusiastic response gave her the green light.

Often referred to as the First Lady of Kenyan reggae and hip hop, Nazizi taps into themes of joy and liberation in “Gai Fafa.”

“It’s all about releasing the stress, dancing your heart out, and allowing yourself to feel good – even if just for a moment,” she explains. “This is my first-ever dance-based video, and I’m excited to see the dance challenges it will inspire.”

“Gai Fafa” stands as a standalone release and is not part of an album. However, fans can look forward to a six-track reggae EP later this year, which Nazizi is crafting as a tribute to her reggae-loving audience.

Nazizi’s career spans over two decades, making her one of East Africa’s most iconic and influential artists. Widely celebrated as a pioneer in both hip hop and reggae, she rose to prominence in the late ’90s as a member of the award-winning group Necessary Noize.

Her solo career has delivered hit after hit, including “Kenyan Gal Kenyan Boy,” “Kube,” “Bless My Room,” and “Naleta Action.”

With over 17 music awards to her name—including two Channel O Music Video Awards, seven consecutive CHAT Female Artist of the Year wins, and accolades from The Grammys, Kisima Awards and Chaguo La Teeniez Awards—Nazizi’s impact on the African music scene is undeniable.

She has toured extensively across Africa, Europe and the U.S., and collaborated with global stars such as Sean Paul, Wayne Wonder, Julian Marley and Akon.