Waithaka Celebrates 20 Years in Music With New Album ‘Soul’d Duets’

The unmistakable influence of Waithaka, the US-based Kenyan music producer, artist, composer, and label owner, has reverberated across the music industry for two decades. Celebrating his 20-year milestone, Waithaka is marking the occasion with the release of his latest album, Soul’d Duets, a masterful blend of R&B and soul that underscores his growth, evolution, and lasting impact on both Kenyan music and the global stage.

From his humble beginnings as a young pianist in the early 2000s to becoming a highly respected figure in music production, this new release is an homage to his whole career. His label, Waithaka Ent, has been instrumental in nurturing African talent, amplifying the voices of artists, and helping to shape the global music narrative with a distinctly African influence.

His latest album, Soul’d Duets, is a perfect example of Waithaka’s unmatched ear for harmony and collaboration. The project brings together an array of talent, skillfully pairing artists who, together, create a cohesive musical experience. The lead single, “I Surrender”, features the angelic voice of Zaituni Wambui, paired with the smooth saxophone of award-winning Kimbassax. Their effortless chemistry captures the essence of Soul’d Duets, transporting listeners into the heart of Waithaka’s soulful, yet modern, soundscapes.

Among the many highlights of Soul’d Duets, the opening track, “SoulDefy”, is my personal favorite. The track begins with an incredibly serene and evocative intro, where the gentle sounds of birds singing and the calming waves of water create a tranquil soundscape. The woman’s voice, which arrives atop this soothing backdrop, captures a sense of nostalgia, especially with lines like “Let me dance on fixed memories”.

With this album, Waithaka not only celebrates his past achievements but also looks forward, continuing to champion African music on the global stage while staying true to his soulful roots. His music speaks to the complexities of life, love, and the human experience, and Soul’d Duets is the perfect embodiment of that message.

As Waithaka reaches this incredible milestone, one thing remains clear – the next 20 years promise to be just as extraordinary as the last.