Pepe Haze

Age

21

Your talent

Artist and musician.

Where you're from?

Nairobi.

Why did you get interested in music?

I was inspired to do music because of numerous reasons. However, what made me really push for this, is the fact that a lot of people are scared to dream over here. My goal is to use music to open doors for the guys that come after me and to open the eyes of African parents, as well as other people in a position to help the youth dream.

What are you up to now?

I have just finished working on my first solo EP (which has recently been released) and now have my eyes set on completing my band's second Album "Paramedicine".

What was your best gig and why?

Without a doubt my crew's last performance at WAPI (July). The mics went dead on us, the drummer was sick and the lead guitarist didn't show up, but we still pulled it off with a beatboxer replacing the drummer, the keyboardist playing some awesome tunes, and I ended up free-styling - a crazy situation, but the crowd enjoyed it.

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

Well to be honest, there is no place that doesn't...

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

Anywhere in the Massai Mara. Hopefully for some rest and time to chill with my friends in the wild.

What do you love about the Kenyan people?

They are very hard working and very friendly.

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

Leona Lewis, because I love her music (very deep) and why lie? We would have a cool time in the bush.

Your best track and why?

I think all my tracks are fly :); it's hard to single out one and call it my best. However, If I had to pick… I'd say "On My Soul" featuring Steph, because it's my first ever solo track (well kind of, it's a collaboration, but regardless, it has that special spot in my heart).

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

Real good! Kenya is beautiful as always! That is why those who come never want to leave. Pictures might say a thousand words but Kenya; let me just put it this way, you have to experience it yourself to see what I see right now. Words can only describe a portion of this place's beauty and richness!

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

It's funny you ask that. To be honest the most beautiful thing about Kenya is the fact that people really appreciate the beauty of diversity. Bring yourself, be yourself, that's all you need. Kenyans are very loving and friendly 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?

Jambo! Then we'd jump on a matatu (local bus - some to be found playing International hip-hop sounds) and I'd take them around the city so they could get an idea of how the common public live.

"Must have" phrases for adventurers in Kenya?

"Asante" (Thank you)
"Nakupenda" (means I love you)
"Ntamupata Wapi Pepe?" (Where is Pepe?)

You can contact Pepe Haze, who also headlines with DJ Wave of the Paramedikz at:
» www.myspace.com/pepehaze
» www.myspace.com/theparamedikz
» www.myspace.com/stephmckee (music produced by Pepe Haze)