Joseph Kamaru

about

Joseph Kamaru (Kangema, Kenya, 1939 – 3 October 2018) was a Kenyan Benga and gospel musician and political activist. He was a leading Kikuyu musician, who has sold about half a million records. He was notable for his politically motivated songs either praising or criticising the government. He was known for his friendship with President Jomo Kenyatta, but after writing a song condemning the murder of Josiah Mwangi Kariuki, they ceased to be close. He also wrote songs praising President Daniel arap Moi. Kamaru was from Kangema, Muranga District. In 1957 he moved to Nairobi where he got a cleaning job. His first formal job was working as a house-help and a nanny, earning enough money to purchase his first guitar. He started pursuing music in 1965. Kamaru made his first breakthrough in 1967 with Celina. The height of his musical career was between 1975-1985 due the release of the adults-only cassettes, all dealing with Kikuyu folk songs. In the late 1980s he was the first Kenyan artist to play at the Carnivore Restaurant, then only hosting foreign artists. According to Martin Dunford, the owner of the restaurant, Kamaru's vibrant performance opened doors for other Kenyan artist to perform at the venue. His popular songs include "muhiki wa mikosi" and "muti uyu mukuona" among others. Many of his songs were political, either praising or criticising the government. Initially he had a good relationships with president Jomo Kenyatta, but after writing a song condemning the murde

top songs

albums

Heavy Combination 1966 - 2007 (Remastered)

Heavy Combination 1966 - 2007

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Muhiki Wa Mikosi Nduraga o Kenya

Kenya Special, Vol. 2 (Selected East African Recordings from the 1970's & 80's)

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Kamaru's Good Times, Special Gift

Special Gift

Mũkũrara Nake

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Kamaru's Good Times

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Nyimbo Cia Mau-Mau

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Kikuyu Folk Songs, Vol. 2: Adults Only!

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Kamaru Hits of the 1960's Vol 2

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Nyimbo cia Mau Mau, Vol. 2

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