Stan

Age

29.

Your talent

Singer/musician, dancer & teacher.

Where you're from?

I was born in Nairobi, but home (for my Mom) is Kiambu.

Why did you get interested in music?

Because I love to do it, art and music, that is. It's where my heart is, and I feel as though I was born to do it.

What are you up to now?

I've just finished recording my first album together with a really experienced and talented producer who is Kenyan, but was based in Sweden for many years. It's a fusion of different genres.

Do you feel that Kenya is part of your music in some way?

Kenya is a part of the album for sure. It has a Kenyan sound, there is also some more traditional music, but with a modern vibe. I try to fuse Kenyan styles and Western styles.

What was your best gig and why?

My album is yet to come out but it's definitely my BEST piece of work!

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

Alliance Francaise in Nairobi... that's where I have always been playing. It's inspiring and we have been allowed to be there and grow for quite some time now.

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

I love Maasai Mara the most. I would certainly be up for camping. The peace and quiet and nature is good for your creative side, writing songs and peace of mind.

What do you love about the Kenyan people?

As much as we have problems we have always managed to get along and we work hard to keep peace and agree. Kenyans are very easy going. They are friendly and hardworking.

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

I would take Eric Roberson. I like his soul and that's where I want to go musically. If you’re in touch with nature then you’re in touch with yourself. Also Raul Midon (from the US) and Stevie Wonder, I guess I’d like them to join in the game viewing experience, because they are the ones that inspired me to see the vision of who I want to be, musically.

Your best track and why?

Zion is the track I love most out of all the music I have recorded.

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

Right now it's very peaceful and serene in Kenya. It's a great country and Nairobi is a great city. There are lots of things happening within the music, culture, and arts scene.

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?

"Karibu Kenya" (Welcome to Kenya). Then I'd take them to the Godown Arts Center...

"Must have" phrases for adventurers in Kenya?

"Habari?" (How are you?)
"Mzuri" (I'm Well)
"Vipi?" (Wassup?)

You can contact Stanley Nganga, who headlines under the name Stan at:
» www.myspace.com/standebut
» www.new.facebook.com/group.php?gid=26007917086
» www.stankenya.com (Coming SOON)
» www.uptoyoutoo.org
» www.penyaafrica.com (Coming SOON)