Combining East African spirit with rap and electronic sounds, Kabeaushé’s work is rooted in his colourful performances, exuberant style and conceptual depth. Originally from Nairobi, Kenya, Kabeaushé moved to Berlin in 2022 after co-collaborating on a project between Musicboard Berlin and the Nyege Nyege collective. It was here in Berlin that he released his cinematic album Hold On To Deer Life, There’s A Blcak Boy Behind You! on Monkeytown Records. Kabeaushé is currently preparing for a German tour supporting his latest release, IGGY SWAGGERING UNGRATEFUL INCESSANT LITTLE PEEEAAAAAAA: a conceptual record that mixes baroque, funk and modern pop tropes.
How did you end up becoming a musician?
First I had to decide and accept that I was a musician, then I got some software called Fruity Loops and learned how to make and produce music with it.
How would you describe your music?
Pop music with added spice.
What are some of the main concepts you deal with in your records?
My latest record I.S.U.I.L.P. is a tale of the fictional Doerf kingdom, ruled by a fierce leader called Herr Iggy, who was once loved by all his people. Somehow, grandeur got to his head, which was followed by his downfall.
What is it about Berlin that helps you be at your most creative?
Just the nature of the society in general. There’s so much to learn and so much information to absorb.You seem to have a relationship with alter egos.
Do you think Berlin allows you to have this freedom?
My alter ego existed long before I came to the city. I had actually planned to move to a different city in another country, but God laughed at my plans and said Berlin was where I needed to be, and it has been incredible. I really love this city, with all its quirks.
What were the challenges you faced when making your new record?
Logistically, it was a bigger project to pull off, and there were more decisions that needed to be made because the stakes were higher. We were aiming at something specific, and so we needed more hands on deck to be more impactful.
How would you say your new record differs from what you’ve done before?
For the longest time, I’ve wanted to make a film with a soundtrack to go with it. With this album, it’s the closest I’ve come.
What are your plans moving forward?
We’re on tour in Germany this spring, starting in Munich and playing in Berlin, and I’m very much looking forward to that.
Kabeaushé will play at Kantine am Berghain on Apr 29. Follow him on IG: @kabeaushe.
