The classic Benga sound was born in Kenya in the late 70′s. Catchy guitar riff, two part harmonies and gradual progression into pure unadulterated fast dance music.
When Daniel Owino Misiani started playing his songs in local villages in the 60s, he was popular with the school girls and young women. The legend has it that fights broke out amongst the men of the villages keen to impress the large female gatherings that followed him around. On several occasions he was forced to flee the villages after guitars were smashed by angry men and village elders. Misiani, now recognised as “the grandfather of Benga”, died in 2006 in a car crash. He left behind 14 children and two wives…
While listening to his greatest success, you will discover the beautiful characters that he portrays, like in the classic "Alice Atieno" or "Honourable Horace Owiti Ongili".
Listen to samples of the compilation album Benga Blast here.
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