How this Kenyan Musician Brought an African Traditional Instrument to a Global Stage

From traditional to contemporary African music. Meet Makadem, a visionary East African musician who has redefined the Nyatiti, the African traditional instrument of the Luo Tribe Kenya.

In this episode of People of Our World, we explore Makadem’s inspiring journey from childhood to accomplished African musician. After moving from Uganda to Kenya as a boy, he and his sister were separated from their father. Yet, the turntable he left them, and the Nyatiti music they grew up hearing, became a powerful lifeline that kept them connected to him.

Over a 20 year musical journey, Makadem has explored Benga music, dancehall, hip hop, and contemporary African music, eventually blending these influences with the Nyatiti to create a sound entirely his own. Rooted in tradition yet boldly innovative, his music bridges generations and cultures, honouring his Luo heritage while pushing the instrument beyond any borders.

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Video Chapters:

0:00 Music is Dynamic: Redefining African Sound
0:16 Meet Makadem, a Kenyan Independent Artist
0:28 From Uganda to Kenya: Luo Tribe Music Roots
1:07 The Nyatiti: An African Traditional Instrument
1:32 Luo Tribe Kenya: Thum Means Music
1:52 My Music Journey: Banga, Dance Hall, Hip Hop to Nyatiti
2:10 A Gift From Tabu Osusa of Ketebul Music
2:52 From Traditional to Contemporary African Music
3:54 African Music is International & Borderless
4:21 African Music Adapts & Evolves
4:34 Behind The Scenes

In this episode:

👤 Featured: Makadem
📍 Location: Nairobi, Kenya
👉 Visit: @Makadem on Spotify

Film production:

🎥 Camera Person: Cindy Bernical
🎥 Camera Person: Benjamin Owour
🎬 Lead Editor: Cindy Bernical
🎬 Assistant Editor: Haico Winnie
🎵 Music: Artlist.io

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People of Our World shares real human stories from across the globe. Every month we bring you a new story that inspires global unity.

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POW Founder,
Cindy Bernical

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