About Muziki Santuri
Muziki Santuri is a vinyl record exhibition organized by Jojo Records and sponsored by Goethe Institute Kenya. The event is supported by other brands like Usanii, Ketebul Records, Melodica Music Store, Jimmy of Kenyatta Market, DERO Community & Cultural Organization, and Chester Hotels & Resorts. This exhibition is an exciting opportunity for music lovers, vinyl collectors, and history buffs to witness and explore the unique cultural significance of vinyl records.
The story of
Jojo Records
If you are a fan of Benga music from Kenya, you have probably heard of Jojo Records. Founded by George Ouma in the 1960s, the record label has been at the forefront of producing, publishing, and collecting music in Kenya and beyond. With an extensive catalog of diverse music genres, Jojo Records has played a pivotal role in shaping the music industry in Kenya and beyond.
Jojo Records was founded by George Ouma, a music lover and entrepreneur, in the 1960s. At the time, the music industry in Kenya was dominated by foreign labels, and local artists had a hard time getting their music recorded and distributed. George Ouma saw an opportunity to fill this gap and founded Jojo Records to promote and support local artists.
Over the years, Jojo Records has achieved numerous milestones and contributed significantly to the growth of the music industry in Kenya. Here are some of the label’s notable achievements:
- Pioneering the recording and distribution of Benga music
- Launching the careers of many successful musicians
- Producing hit songs that became national anthems
Muziki Santuri 2023 Official Partners
- Goethe Institute Kenya
Goethe Institute Kenya is a cultural institute that promotes the German language and culture in Kenya. The institute sponsors various cultural events and programs, including Muziki Santuri. The sponsorship of Muziki Santuri by Goethe Institute Kenya is a testament to the institute’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange and appreciation.
- Mr. Aghan Odero Agan
Exhibition Co-Curator with George Ouma. Responsible for background research, ideation, exhibition planning, activities programming including anchorage of performance presentations, conversations and workshops. Aghan Odero is a Culture Specialist with varied multifaceted experiences in creative processes, management and policy work. A former Executive Director at The Kenya Cultural Centre/National Theatre, he has been instrumental in diverse cross cultural artistic exchanges. He currently works The Orature Collective (TOC) and Zamaleo Trust.
- Ketebul Music
Ketebul Music is a non profit non governmental organization based in Nairobi, Kenya. They are a record label, video production facility and recording studio. Ketebul Music exists to carry out research and promote the diverse fusion of traditional sounds of Kenya and East Africa through the documentation and archiving of the work of musicians.
- USANII
Usanii provides an online platform for creative individuals to access an avenue to earn a living doing what they love. They will settup creative ways for the exhibition audience to tip/donate during the event. (print stickers. cards, etc) and also collaborate on a video promo that can be shared on social media before and after the event.
- Chester Hotels & Resorts
Luxurious hotel located in Nairobi CBD, offering a wide range of amenities and activities to ensure your stay is unforgettable. Chester Hotel will provide accommodation services for performing Artists at Muziki Santuri.
- DERO Community & Cultural Organization
DERO is a community and cultural organization dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our mission is to foster a sense of community and belonging through a variety of programs and initiatives that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of our members. From cultural festivals and language classes to art exhibits and community service projects, we provide opportunities for people of all backgrounds to come together and learn from each other.
- Mr. Eric Manya
Exhibition Designer. He is an accomplished sculptor simultaneously works with mosaics and mixed media. He is currently engaged with design and production of art exhibitions and events with linkages to GoDown Arts Centre, Michael Joseph Centre, The National Museums of Kenya, Alliance Francaise, and The Village Market. Eric works as Arts Program Curator with TICAH (Trust for Indigenous Culture and Health), Nairobi.
- Melodica Record Store & Jimmy of Kenyatta Market
Melodica Record Store and Jimmy of Kenyatta Market will join Jojo records in active participation at the exhibition by providing additional vinyl records, players, and various vintage musical instruments for the exhibition. They will also have a few records available for sale.
