Gengetone: Youth Rebellion or a Lifestyle?

Mbogi Genje, the leading force of the Gengetone revolution, represents a new wave of artists who have redefined the contemporary music scene.

Some argue that Gengetone, an evolution of the Genge genre, is responsible for this shift. Three years ago, the Umoja-based trio released their hit track “Ngumi Mbwegze,” which completely transformed the game. Not only did Mbogi Genje authentically portray their surroundings, but they also introduced a variation of sheng called Shembeteng to a wider audience. Their unique two-fisted salute became a trademark. Politicians, including the controversial former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, and other celebrities eagerly sought the group known as the “sheng masters” to join their ranks.

Linguists attempted to decipher this new language, which is essentially a reverse version of sheng, further complicating an already complex language. Parroty, renowned for the hit song “Lewa,” believes that Gengetone represents more than just music—it embodies a lifestyle. According to him, Gengetone is deeply rooted in the hood culture that originated from the pioneers of Genge, such as Nonini, Juacali, and Clemmo.

For Zzero Sufuri, a master of rhymes and infectious hooks, Gengetone is not just a genre—it’s a way of life. When it comes to language, no genre has popularized and spread sheng as widely as Gengetone. In an article published in the Harvard International Review in 2020, researcher Salome Garnier explores the role of sheng in shaping the identities of Kenyan youth. Unlike other shared languages, sheng draws from a wide range of influences, reflecting the cultural and linguistic diversity that surrounds these young people as they mature. It serves as a means of bridging the societal divisions that exist in Kenya. Renowned linguist and poet Alamin M. Mazrui further emphasizes the connection between language and attitudes, noting that conflicts can arise between those who support and oppose a particular language. This is evident in the ongoing debate surrounding Gengetone, which some view as vulgar and unworthy of existence.

Gengetone, at its core, embodies a celebration of vices such as alcohol, drugs, and guns, with music videos often showcasing the act of smoking. Look up any lyric from popular Gengetone artists like Ochungulo Clan, Ethic, Sailors, Mbuzi Gang, Shekina Karen, Zzero Sufuri, Ssaru, Boondocks Gang, or newcomers Trio Mio and Lil Maina, and you won’t find poetic verses fit for a mother and child to enjoy together. However, what sets Gengetone apart is its ability to adapt to current trends and transform them into chart-topping hits. It thrives on the accessibility of studios, financial resources, and the internet, as artists compete to create the catchiest songs using trending adlibs. It’s about turning simple nursery rhymes into smash hits.

With the exception of a few artists, most Gengetone performers take an unconventional approach. They rely on their friends as crew members and vixens, and they utilize familiar neighbourhood settings to create their own brand of magic. They unapologetically celebrate their identities with every action they take. Unlike Genge or Ghipuka, which were typically confined to specific studios or neighbourhoods, Gengetone embraces a more inclusive approach. It surpasses geographical boundaries, studio limitations, and even generational gaps. Esteemed artists such as Kansol, Jua Cali, Octopizzo, Khaligraph Wyre, Nameless, Vivian, and Habib have all eagerly embraced this genre.