Kenyan music sensation Iyanii recently sat down for an insightful interview on the Mic Cheque Podcast. Appearing on Episode 317, Iyanii spoke candidly about his tough upbringing and his road to fame.
He revealed that gospel-turned-secular star Willy Paul played a vital role in setting him on the path to becoming a musician. Iyanii considers Paul his music godfather.
Escaping the Streets of Mathare
Iyanii grew up in the dilapidated Mathare neighbourhood in Nairobi. He described his area as a place that forces residents to choose between being a good or a bad person.
Crime was a constant presence in his life. He even narrowly escaped death after being shot while running from the police. He confirmed the bullet left a visible mark on him.
“Nilikimbia then nikaingia kwa gari za Dandora, then there was this lady who was seated next to me akaniangalia akaniambia ‘eh by the way unatoka damu’, nikajiangalia ndio hiyo time ikani hit by the way nilikuwa shot,” Iyanii recalled.
For Iyanii, poverty became his greatest source of motivation to choose a different life. He refused to participate in crime, admitting he was too scared to join his peers.
The Willy Paul Effect
During this formative period, Iyanii’s older brother was close friends with Willy Paul. Iyanii observed Paul closely. He watched Paul’s transformation from a resident to a successful celebrity.
Iyanii was deeply inspired when Willy Paul started returning to the hood. Paul arrived driving a car and demonstrating great success.
READ ALSO: Iyanii: From Earning Ksh 150 a Day Working in a Hotel to Music Stardom
Iyanii recalled witnessing the change:
“Huyu msee ametransition in a very big way. Huyu msee anarudi kwa mtaa ame buy gari... huyu msee ako na ganji, mademu wanamfuata sana sana.”
This translates to noting how Paul had transitioned massively, bought a car, had money, and attracted many women.
A Vision for Success
Seeing Willy Paul’s lifestyle served as tangible proof that a way out existed. It solidified Iyanii’s belief that he could also succeed through his talent.
He reasoned that if Paul’s life could be changed by music, his own life could too. Iyanii also drew inspiration from seeing other local artists like Bahati and Mr. Seed rise to prominence.
This motivation helped Iyanii to pursue his musical career fully. He later managed to get a scholarship to Sauti Academy. This opportunity taught him how to monetize his talent and the business side of music.
Giving Back Through Music
Iyanii's commitment to making a change extends beyond his music career. He decided to use his music as a tool for positive social impact.
He promised to dedicate 20% of every coin he earns from his music to prisons and charitable initiatives. This 20% comes from all sources, including performance, distribution, and endorsements.
He explained that prisons are often neglected. For instance, he used these funds to donate a sound system to Kamiti Maximum Prison.
The artist continues to use his platform and his success, partly inspired by the change he witnessed in Willy Paul, to elevate the lives of others.
The influence of seeing Willy Paul return successfully from the music industry offered Iyanii the blueprint to follow. He currently boasts major hits like "Donjo Maber," which he credits to the power of energy behind the music.
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