This June, Spotify’s EQUAL Africa program celebrates Njerae, a Kenyan artist whose music blends vulnerability with conviction, offering listeners a soulful, refreshing escape.
More than just melodies, her songs are a powerful form of release and healing, born from navigating personal silence amidst social noise.
From Quiet Rebellion to Public Gift
Njerae’s musical journey began in quiet rebellion. Naturally introverted, she turned to writing to process the world around her.
It started with poetry following a national tragedy, evolving into music as she picked up the guitar and gave voice to emotions she couldn’t otherwise express. What began as a private outlet has blossomed into a public gift.
Inspired by African icons like Sauti Sol and Phy, Njerae channels their influence while carving her unique path.
In a male-dominated industry, she stands out not through opposition but through unapologetic authenticity. Reflecting on her EQUAL Africa recognition, she shares,
“This is such a huge opportunity for me and I’m super excited to have my face on such a platform. It’s an amazing program that focuses on putting women on top and empowering them, and I love that. It pushes us, and it’s a huge honour.”
“A quote I live by is ‘Dress for the job you want, not the one you have.’ I never let being a woman interfere with my journey. I will keep pushing and going after what I want regardless of my gender, and I will not dim my light on anything because I’m a woman.”
In Njerae’s Own Words
What’s one surprising thing your fans might not know about you?
I’ve never had any other job besides music. I’ve never been employed.
When did you realise music was your destiny? What’s your WHY?
I’m very introverted and used to keeping things inside until I’d have a big blowout, which wasn’t healthy.
Around the time of some terrorist attacks in Kenya, I started writing poetry to process those feelings.
Then I picked up the guitar and began turning those words into songs. Music became my way of expressing things I couldn’t say otherwise. That’s my why.
Which African artists shaped your sound?
I grew up listening to Sauti Sol, Phy, Tiwa and Wahu. Sauti Sol showed me it’s possible to make it work, but Phy was the first African woman I saw playing guitar and singing soulful love songs.
Her song “Taboo” inspired me to join Sauti Academy, and that’s how I got here.
How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it?
My music is soulful and refreshing—like a breath of fresh air, a sigh of relief.
What advice do you have for someone afraid to follow their dream?
If you’re dreading it, is it your dream? (laughs) Nothing good comes easy. I’ve been chasing this dream for almost ten years, but only started releasing music two years ago.
Many told me my music was “too wordy” or “too white,” but I ignored them. The dream is mine, and the satisfaction it gives me won’t be the same for doubters. Keep pushing—it will come.
How do you navigate the industry as a woman artist?
Being a woman artist isn’t easy, but I don’t let it stop me. I believe my gender shouldn’t stop anyone from listening or me from living my dream. I focus on my values and goals and keep pushing.
I’m also not afraid to ask for what I need—like a changing room or a makeup artist space—but I never let my gender define my worth as an artist.
Final Words of Empowerment
Njerae’s journey is a testament to resilience and authenticity. Her message is clear: pursue your dreams unapologetically and never dim your light—because your voice matters.
Through platforms like EQUAL Africa, artists like Njerae are not just making music; they’re changing the narrative and inspiring a new generation of women to rise and shine.
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