Blinky Bill, one of Kenya’s few music geniuses

I don’t mean this in a bad way, but there is a shortage of music geniuses in Kenya, people who actually put a lot of thought into the whole process.

For instance, I wouldn’t necessarily refer to The Kansoul or Ochunglo Family as music geniuses. These two groups have just mastered their craft and know who they’re making music for. Thats it!

However, there are brilliant brains in the local music industry. They have an ear for good sound, their lyrics are well- thought out, their music has a unique rhythm. Kenyan singer Billy Sellanga, alias Blinky Bill, is one of them.

If you are familiar with his music, I know you agree with me. You never listen to a song by Blinky Bill and feel like you don’t believe the authenticity of the vocal performance. You are sold from the moment you hit the play button.

Blinky Bill is not just a musician, he is also a renowned producer and a disc jockey. He  is one fourth of Just A Band, the other members are Mbithi Masya, Dan Muli and Jim Chuchu.

The band is behind great hits such as Ha He, Probably For Lovers, Huff + Puff, just to name a few. They toured the world and won many accolades before splitting up in 2016 to pursue solo interests.

However, what many do not know is that Blinky Bill was in charge of the band’s musical direction. Perhaps this explains why he has been successful after going solo.

His debut album titled Everyone’s Just Winging It And Other Fly Tales was self-produced and this does not come as a surprise since he is an alumnus of Red Bull Music Academy and One Beat Music.

Blinky Bill’s music background could be the reason why he is a cut above the rest and has a unique sound. He sees music as an art, as such, each stage is well thought-out.

He starts by humming. He then makes a beat and from then he knows what to say and when or who would spice up the song.

For a man who draws influence from the likes of Pharrell, Kenya West, Bob Marley, Andre 3000, Fela Kuti, you can tell that he is just getting started. Watch out for Blinky Bill.