DJ Wave

Age

22.

Your talent

Musician.

Where you're from?

I'm from Nairobi City Baby!

Why did you get interested in music?

I got interested in music because it's such a beautiful tool to tell people what you're thinking, and feeling. I love music and the diversity. I am in a hip-hop group called "The Paramedikz".

What are you up to now?

Right now, I'm working on sending in a demo of a few of my songs to a record label and I also have a new album coming up - so watch this space!

Do you feel that Kenya is a part of your music?

I feel Kenya is a part of my music - it's where I picked up the mic and started flowing. I was brought up with Kenyan music all around me.

What was your best gig and why?

My best gig was at Tupa Mbao with "The Paramedikz," at Daystar University. About 200 or so people were there. It was my favorite because everyone in the group came along, and the instrumentals sounded awesome! Just the way we'd practiced!

Is there any place in Kenya that inspires you in terms of your music?

One of my favorite rappers (Jua Kali), is from Eastleigh. The music scene there is so powerful. It's one of the poorest parts of Nairobi, but the people are so passionate about their music and that humbled me a lot. I was so blessed to be there, more so to record a song with Jared Billa ("Broken Dreams" - an excellent track!) at Scratch Digital Records.

If you could pick your dream wildlife destination in Kenya - where would it be and what would you get up to there?

The Maasai Mara. I'd just hang out by myself. I love being relaxed, and not havin' to worry about anything!

What do you love about the Kenyan people?

The politeness, and chilled out lifestyle!

Who out of your musical/artistic influences would make the best game viewing partner?

Elton John, Eminem, and Jared Billa - top of the list has to Elton because he rocked with the Lion King Song! He's cool, and chilled out. That's how musicians should be.

Your best track and why?

"Revolutionary war": It's a revolution song against sin, and all the things I want to be against in my life.

How does it feel to be in Kenya now - what are travellers missing out on?

I'm actually not in Kenya at the moment haha! But they're missing out on a lot. Yes the wildlife is tops, but the coast is also loaded with some great gigs - especially by The Paramedikz!!! Travellers need to come see the heart of Africa and get with the vibe!

Can you give adventurers the inside track on travel in your home destination - what should they bring with them to Kenya?

The lines, "Hakuna Matata!" meaning "No Problem," "Wapi Choo" translated as "Where's the toilet?" and a good heart.

What would be the first words you'd utter to a tourist if you hooked up with them on the street, and where's the first place you'd take them to in downtown Nairobi?

"Wadup, you look new. My name is DJ Wave, and I'd love to show you around!" I'd probably take them to the Nairobi Stalls, or on a walk down Moi Avenue. I'd say that's where the city's heart is. Then we'd go to a Java house for a swift caffeine buzz!

"Must have" experiences for adventurers in Kenya

Drink Pure Kenyan tea, and coffee at The Java House! Eat chapati, and ugali! And most of all, Nyama Choma (do, do a goat roast).

For those with a question mark over "Ugali" - here's some table etiquette - roll a lump into a ball, and then dip it into a sauce or stew. You can also use it as a scoop and wrap it around pieces of meat - handy information!

You can contact Rich Mutua, who headlines under the name DJ Wave at:
» www.myspace.com/djwavemusic
» www.new.facebook.com/profile.php?id=500883962