Martin Kahangi

Age

26.

Your talent

Artist and musician.

Where you're from?

Nairobi.

Why did you get interested in music and art?

I started art when I was young and decided to make it my full time career. I also combine my art with hip-hop which is alive and well in Kenya.

What are you up to now?

I'm currently a freelance audio-visual artist. I run my own media-arts related business called "Hit Wave Media Productions". I'm involved in the branding and packaging of up and coming and established artists here in Kenya. I also write and produce music for other artists. My artistic passion extends to hip-hop and rock music and I'm working on my first album soon to be released by the end of this year. It's called "The Shock Wave." My dream is to take Kenyan music and culture to a higher plane. I'm also working with Victor Job Obura, a Hip Hop, Crunk and Rock music producer for JME Radio in Kenya, and a creative graffiti artist. Hip Hop is linked to real life, according to Victor, his latest work entitled "Jam," devised to lift the spirit of motorists caught in the morning traffic jam.

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

I interact with the people of Kenya day-to-day and I have come to love this place. There's so much art and culture here - it's a constant source of inspiration.

What was your best art exhibition or gig and why?

I work in art and music - so it was actually an exhibition. It was in 2003 and I sold one of my art pieces to an American. It's now on display in the US and that's a real buzz for me - being able to spread the word about Kenya through my art.

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

I just have to step outside my door to find inspiration - so it has to be my home, Nairobi.

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

I'd take it easy at Lake Baringo and just get inspired.

What do you love about the Kenyan people?

Their openness and hospitality - it never ends.

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

Coldplay & Oasis would be top of the list along with Matchbox Twenty and the Goo Goo Dolls from the US. I would like to get to know them better and I can't think of a better way to make firm friendships than on a game drive - it would be an awesome shared experience where we could gel and connect - after which I'd love to chill with some tunes and maybe talk about a possible collaboration.

Your best track and why?

A track called "A Star". I love the beat and the progression. I feel a sense of accomplishment when I listen to it.

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

I am lovin' being here - the Kenyan's are the most chilled out people on the planet. Anyone not coming to Kenya is missing out the best in wildlife viewing, but also the people - who make this place like a home from home.

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

A smile and plenty of room in your suitcase for memories - perhaps even a piece of artwork - so every time you see it in your home, it will remind you of your time in Kenya and the wonderful people.

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?

"Hi and welcome to Kenya. If you would like I can make your stay very cozy and adventurous." Then I'd certainly ask if they would you like to join me for a tour. We'd soak up the culture and then party in the early hours.

"Must have" phrases for adventurers in Kenya?

The old fashioned "jambo!" (Hi there)
"Asante!" (Thank you)

You can read more about HitWave; Martin Kahangi's band at:
» www.soundclick.com/bands/default.cfm?bandID=863703