Danish singer-songwriter Mzungu Kichaa is currently in Nairobi, Kenya to promote his third studio album, Fade Away. This album captures and amplifies the live music essence of East Africa. The album reflects his vibrant stage and acoustic performances and features live instruments that convey authenticity and a genuine musical experience. It emphasizes developing a deeper connection with nature and encourages being present, content and free from material worries.
Mzungu Kichaa is known for his energetic and engaging stage performances. Although born in Denmark, he spent most of his life in Africa and eventually began his musical career in Tanzania where he grew up. His unique stage name, given to him by bongo flava legend Juma Nature, symbolizes cultural guardianship and has deep socio-cultural significance. Kichaa’s journey to overcome linguistic, racial and cultural barriers through his music is both inspiring and captivating.
The “Fade Away” album
The new music video for the title track “Fade Away” features Danish artist Wafande. The video was shot in Sweden, Denmark, Bornholm and Holland and shows a heartfelt collaboration that highlights the song’s theme of unconditional love for life.
Kichaa’s current media tour in Kenya to promote his new album marks his return to Nairobi after four years. He says: “In the face of unrest in Kenya, my message to the youth is to stay positive, stay true to their visions and value their freedom of expression. The song ‘Uhuru’ from my album highlights the importance of this right. Its key line says that without freedom, not even the birds will sing. By this, I mean the whistleblowers and changemakers in society who are losing their voice.”
The album covers themes such as love, loss, gratitude, spiritual growth and the complexity of life’s challenges, creating a rich, multifaceted narrative that encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences and dreams. Mzungu Kichaa presents a captivating album with love songs such as “Fade Away”, “Fall in Love” and “London Town” as well as political tracks such as “Uhuru”, which is about freedom of speech. The exploration of mental health and the uncertainties of life gives the album depth and introspection, which is particularly evident in tracks such as “Sleepy”.
With a mix of adventurousness and confidence, Fade Away encourages you to pursue dreams without giving up your freedom of expression. Mzungu Kichaa explains: “It is crucial to be authentic and vulnerable and this album has allowed me to shed my inhibitions and fear of sharing my true voice.” He continues: “I have also released some acoustic versions recorded late at night in one take with vocals and guitar, complete with imperfections. It doesn’t always have to be polished and embellished and I hope my listeners will appreciate this rawer sound.” Stream Fade Away
Mzungu Kichaa’s musical journey
Kichaa’s debut album, Tuko Pamoja (2009), written entirely in Swahili, made a big impression in Tanzania and Kenya. The album’s first hit single, “Jitolee”, featuring Professor Jay, won him the Best New Artist award at the Scandinavian African Achievement Awards. Over the course of his career, he has built up a significant fan base in East Africa, Europe and the USA.
He has collaborated with African stars such as Sauti Sol, Juma Nature and FidQ. In addition, he has also worked with Scandinavian artists such as Wafande, Kaka and Karen Mukupa. Kichaa continues to tour extensively across sub-Saharan Africa and Europe, where his fan base continues to grow.
Selected image credits Osse Greca Sinare
