Luhya tribe is one of the largest ethnic communities in Kenya. This is due to the unique culture and customs, traditional foods, heritage and the legends in the community. Music is such an essential aspect of their culture. Luyha songs talk about almost everything in the society; politics, initiation processes, social vices in the community, ceremonies like birth and marriages, sad events like funerals, and the celebration of life. The tracks have a unique beat. One can easily tell if a song is from the western part of the country even before listening to the lyrics.
What sets Luhya artistes who sing traditional music apart from their counterparts is how they deliver their message. One common trait in the tracks is the incorporation of conversations and greetings in some scenarios in between the music lines. This feature is typical with artists across all ages who sing in the language. Famous musicians from the community who have been in the industry for decades include Jacob Luseno, David Barasa, Emmanuel Musindi, Pius Wafula, Sukuma Bin Ongaro and Sila Wa Sila. Bands like Kayamba Roots and Webuye Jua Kali are also loved in the region. This article lists down top 20 Luhya songs you will love.
’Mulongo’ is a circumcision song that is sung by Luhyas during the initiation process. The song has been a hit since its release with the Kayamba Roots band performing it in the various events they are invited to. Mulongo has a catchy tune that would make you love the language. The song became so popular that it now gets played on occasions which are far from initiation occasions.
This is one of those David Barasa classics that are popular across Luhya land. The track is often played in social gatherings like weddings , men’s beer sessions, or celebrating achievements in the society. He sings about moving with the Tindikiti rhythm, as he and others dance to the music. Tindikti Yaya is definitely among the best Luyha songs you need to listen to.
This hit is a tribute to all mothers for the great work they do in raising kids and taking care of families. The video is accompanied by slow dances which are in sync with the tempo of the song. This song highlights the responsibilities mothers are tasked with. The chorus is a little contentious, as the impression it gives is that mothers are better than fathers. The comparison may cause a debate because both parents are essential to the children and the growth of the family.
‘Bindu Bichenjanga’ loosely translates to ‘things change’. Amos Barasa’s hit was used as one of the political anthems during the 2017 election year. The hilarious visuals complement the funny but witty lines in the track. Amos shares a message in the song, especially for leaders who are only available when asking for votes but disappear after they have been elected. He talks about the new constitution that was promulgated in August 2010 and the digital transformation that happen in the country when the regimes change.
David M. Barasa is known for making feel-good songs, and ‘Khalikha’ is one of them. The song is sung in a high tempo and is accompanied by traditional instruments to complement his style. He incorporated ‘Kamabeka’ dancing style which involves shaking one’s shoulders to the rhythm. Famous TV comedian Aplhonce Makacha Makokha made a cameo in the video, creating a light moment before the video starts.
‘Awinja’ is one of the songs that introduced the boy band Sauti Sol to the world. The track is from their 2011 album ‘Sol Filosofia’ and talks about women and their roles in the family. Chimano’s baritone, Polycarp’s guitar skills, Delvine’s lines and how Bien Aime flows with the group is what makes ‘Awinja’ a special track. ‘Awinja’ is about appreciating mothers and celebrating the work they do. The video has images of prominent female figures, showing how motherhood is essential.
