Growing up in the densely populated low income area of Eastlands ensures one is bound to experience a smorgasbord of musical genres. From Rap, R&B and Reggae, to Lingala and Benga, music is everywhere – homes, churches, schools etc. It was therefore inevitable for a promising artist like Henrie Mutuku to acquire and incorporate these influences into her style.
 Nonetheless as she grew up, music was given such low priority as a career, and even less so as a serious income earner. As a result, Henrie learnt to be her own encourager and motivator, chasing opportunities of learning piano and vocals, preparing her early in her otherwise normal childhood, to be independent and willing to face the distance with minimal or no external support.
It was in high school that she toyed with the idea of making music her career choice and as an active member of the Drama Club and Choir mistress for the school choir, her love and interest in music peaked. This interest, coupled with a resilience to succeed as a recording artist, has won her the family's respect in a career that most parents see as a non-starter and a financial wasteland.
Henrie started working in music with local Christian artistes Izzo and Pete Odera as a background vocalist. These experiences helped shape her as a recording artist and concert performer, all the while influencing her style in music. Her big break came when she was featured on a compilation album titled ‘Rebirth', produced by the gifted Steve "Soulchild" Ominde. The album brought together various leading lights from within the Gospel music industry.
Since then various doors have swung open, notably her curtain-raising performance for Billboard topping recording artist Bebo Norman. This experience undeniably ushered her into a spiral ascent as a household name and presented her a platform to step-up and embrace her destiny as Kenya 's foremost female gospel artiste. This also presented her with an opportunity to make her first music video – “Nakuhitaji”– created by the local Christian T.V. Station – Family TV for the promotion of the Bebo Norman Tour. She has since recorded another music video for the song “Amini”, taken off her scintillating album ‘Simama'.
Passionate about many causes, especially the containment of the HIV/AIDS scourge that has ravaged her continent, she has participated in various fundraising and awareness activities for HIV/AIDS prevention. In addition, Henrie has worked with the Protecting Life Movement, as well as in the care of AIDS orphans and patients, not to mention her work with Bible translation and literacy.
If she thought that her career was riding high, it was about to approach dizzying heights – awards started flowing her way. She put in an application at the KORA Awards, Africa 's superlative music awards show. Her hard work and consistency finally bore fruit, allowing her to stun many and get the nod for the highly coveted KORA for Best Artiste East Africa (2002). She went on to charm the hearts of local music fans and won 2 Kisima awards: Best Female Artiste and Best Contemporary Gospel Artiste.
Her musically whirlwind year was just getting started. The release of her debut album “Simama” (Stand) went on to contribute hit songs like “Usichoke” featuring Rufftone and R.Kay) and “Manzi wa Maana" (featuring K.J. of Redykulass). She has also featured prominently in various popular music countdown radio shows, such as Kiss 100's “Smirnoff Top 7 songs in Nairobi”, East Africa FM Radio's ‘Link' and Kampala FM as voted by listeners. “Manzi wa Maana” especially captured the hearts of young ladies, swiftly becoming an anthem of chastity and virtue, all the while redefining the true essence of a beautiful African woman.
You most certainly don't have to be a Christian to enjoy and appreciate her deep soulful sounds and healing lyrics that seem to define her music. Her music leaves her audience alert in thought, reminding them there is more to life than what they have already settled for.
» Post Comment
» 3 Comments
1"Doe"
at Tuesday, 19 January 2010 04:56
Where is Henrie? We truly miss her sweet voice.
2"Henrie!!!"
at Tuesday, 27 April 2010 11:46
where is Henrie? we want you back!
3"Mr."
at Friday, 06 May 2011 11:28
Just missing her, she did influence a number of people I know with her music and uncompromising message. Sis, just know its not in vain. You are blessed!
|
