Ssaru Wa Manyaru: Why ‘Dirty’ Songs Pay & Her Thoughts on Love and Loyalty

Sylvia Ssaru, popularly known as Ssaru Wa Manyaru, has never shied away from controversy. At just 23, the rapper has built a reputation for pushing boundaries in the music industry—something that became evident when she dropped her hit song Kaskie Vibaya, a track that had some Kenyans calling for her cancellation.

‘Kenyans Love Dirty Songs’

Reflecting on the mixed reactions to her music, Ssaru acknowledges that her more provocative tracks tend to outperform those with a ‘cleaner’ message.

“When I do songs considered morally acceptable, no one really talks about them. But when I drop these so-called ‘dirty’ songs, they blow up. Just look at Kaskie Vibaya—everyone was talking about it. So, it’s not my fault; I think Kenyans genuinely love such music.”

She reveals that she has experimented with other genres, including rhumba and dancehall, but they didn’t receive the same level of enthusiasm.

“I’ve released conscious music and even a rhumba song, but the reception wasn’t great. When I do dancehall, fans barely notice. But the moment I switch back to the music people call ‘dirty,’ they go wild.”

According to Ssaru, this kind of music isn’t just popular—it’s profitable.

“These songs bring in the most money, from streaming views to gigs. At the end of the day, it’s business.”

Interestingly, despite her high-energy performances, Ssaru prefers a quiet lifestyle.

“I love making music, but I hate loud places unless I’m performing or recording. In my free time, I’d rather sleep or just chill at home doing nothing.”

Spotify Recognition & Times Square Billboard Moment

One of the defining moments of her career came when she was selected as the youngest artist to join Spotify’s EQUAL Music Program—an achievement she describes as humbling.

“Being featured on the Times Square Billboard in New York was huge. People pay to get their faces up there, and your girl was on it—for free. And mind you, I was only 19! That recognition showed me that I was on the right path.”

She credits the program with expanding her audience, opening doors to international collaborations, and increasing her brand’s value.

Love, Betrayal & ‘Character Development’

While Ssaru is making waves in music, her personal life has also had its share of drama. She candidly shares details about her last relationship, which ended in betrayal.

“I don’t know if my ex will ever forgive me, but it doesn’t matter. He cheated on me multiple times—with women we both knew. So, what did I do? I gave him a taste of his own medicine, in a way he’ll never forget. I went for the one person I wasn’t supposed to. I had to make it hurt.”

Despite acknowledging that their relationship was toxic, she has no regrets.

“Looking back, I feel sorry for him, but I don’t regret my actions. That relationship was bound to end. It was just a matter of when, not if.”

But don’t mistake her for someone who plays games in relationships.

“I may have a resting b**ch face, but when I love, I love hard. And let me be clear—I don’t cheat. I’m always loyal. I don’t sleep around or juggle multiple relationships. When I’m with someone, I’m all in.”

With her unapologetic attitude and undeniable talent, Ssaru continues to carve out her place in the music industry, proving that she’s here to stay—on her own terms.