When we talk about Nakuru’s biggest names in music, Hush BK ranks pretty high on that list. Over the years, Hush has become a household name in Nakuru and even across the country.

Mtaa Wangu got an exclusive look into the life of Hush. This is what he had to say.

Who is Hush?

Hush is an artist, songwriter, MC and a family man. I am happily married with two children. My real name is Boniface Kinya Gitau. When I started music a while back, I was looking for a cool artistic name and I settled on "Hush". BK stands for Boniface Kinya.

I was born in Mpeketoni, Lamu County, and grew up there for most of my childhood.

When did you start music?

I started music as a career close to eight years ago. I was inspired by my father who used to sing Taarab music. Everyone in my family loves singing and listening.

How did you end up in Nakuru?

Well my mother got a job in Nakuru forcing my sister and I to move here with her.

Where was your music nurtured?

It all started at the Nakuru Players’ Theatre. During the holidays I would go to the theatre and interact with other performers, artists and poets that made me become confident. At the time, I got to interact with Dj. Shiti and Prof. Hamo.

When can you say you had your breakthrough?

First I can say music is a journey and you always learn along the way. When I did the song " Pastor Mjanja," that is when it all started falling into place for me.

Who is your role model in Music?

My role model in music is Nyashinski. I think his lyrics are smart and I find his style of music interesting.

Why did you stay in Nakuru and not move to Nairobi as most artists do?

For me, it is all about being unique and I have also chosen to invest in Nakuru. I want to become the biggest name in Nakuru. When others move away, it leaves me enjoying monopoly of the music space in Nakuru.

What are some of the challenges you have faced along the way?

The entertainment industry in Nakuru is growing very slowly. For example, in Nakuru there are only a few night clubs where you can perform as compared to Nairobi which has a variety. Therefore, you can only get a limited number of gigs at a time in Nakuru.

What are you currently working on?

I have a collection of a few songs which I am currently working on and hopefully it will be out by the end of the year.

sanyabret@gmail.com

How Hush BK got into the music industry

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Bret Sanya