As far as hardworking groups go in Kenya’s Gospel industry, it’s hard not to count Maximum Melodies among the very best. Started as a dancing set eleven years ago, they are now better known for their music, and their fame has spread far beyond their church borders. Their achievements read like most artists’ wish lists – two full length albums, a handful of successful singles, a string of awards as well as much coveted tour opportunities.

Speaking of which, the group’s 2007 US tour was arguably their biggest moment. Invited by the Jubilee Christian Center, the three-month affair saw them traverse the length and breadth of the country, performing in numerous churches and concerts. Young Muiru (also known as Andrew Young), the group’s founder and leader, is still reeling from the experience:

 “The reception we received from both the Kenyans and foreigners was amazing. It totally surprised us!” he says.

Many good things came out of that visit. Not only did it give them much needed overseas exposure, it also saw them rake up millions in sales, besides doing a few recordings. Before they left, they had recorded two songs off their upcoming album with international star Lukus Simari. They also made an appearance on TBN’s TX 10 show, hosted by T-Bone.

Hanging Out With T-Bone

Muiru is quick to point out that they picked up quite a few pointers, not only on better planning future tours, but also directing their ministry. He explains:

 “One thing we realized is that God has placed us in Kenya for a purpose. (The US) is a good place to visit, be challenged and be made wiser in some ways, and then come back home to continue establishing ourselves. We want to make an impact in our nation.”

Since they got back, the fifteen member squad has been hard at work planning the next phase of their career. 2008 is set to be their biggest year yet, with several projects lined up. First up is the establishment of their studio, Melmax Studios, soon setting up at Windsor House. The studio will feature audio, video and graphics divisions with producer Billy Frank joining the team as production head.

The first project to come out of the audio studios will definitely be the group’s junior album, Shusha. Three tracks are done, and with each member of the group contributing in song-writing, this may turn out to be their most diverse record to date. It is expected that the scripture-laced album will be out in August. Also in progress are videos for their sophomore album, Emmanueli, which are almost complete. Several have already received massive airplay.

Moreover, the group is launching a series of youth conferences dubbed Rod & Fire, with the first edition being held in April 2008. The two-day event will feature both performances and speakers. Muiru explains the purpose behind the conference:

“Most times, young people attend gigs, enjoy themselves, and leave the same way they came, to face the same problems…what we want to do is empower them with life skills, talk to them about vision, and purpose…using the young artists they know and identify with”

Finally, Maximum Melodies will be hitting the road again in August on a return tour to the US.

The group is upbeat about charting new territories, and sees the next few years as instrumental to their plan of taking a central place of influence on Kenya’s Gospel scene. Muiru sums it up thus:

 “We want Maximum Melodies to be legend!”

They seem well on the way there.

Email (will not be published)

Name

Title

Comment
 remaining characters

Post