Tag: E-Sir news

Nairobi Honors Late Hip-Hop Legend E-Sir with Road Renaming

Posted on by Baba Ghafla
In a heartfelt tribute to one of Kenya’s most celebrated hip-hop artists, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja announced on Thursday during the 61st Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens that a road in South C will bear the name of the late Issah Mmari, better known as E-Sir. This initiative marks a significant acknowledgment of the artist’s enduring legacy within the Kenyan music landscape.

 

E-Sir, who tragically passed away in a road accident in 2003 at the height of his career, left an indelible mark on Kenya’s hip-hop and cultural scene. His music, characterized by its depth, social commentary, and infectious beats, continues to resonate with audiences, making this tribute not only timely but also deeply symbolic.

 

Governor Sakaja made the announcement while emphasizing the city’s commitment to nurturing the creative sector. “Nairobi stands as a creative and cultural hub in this region. Our artists, musicians, and performers not only enrich our lives but also drive economic growth. We are committed to nurturing this sector by providing platforms for talent development and market access,” Sakaja stated.

 

He further elaborated on the honor bestowed upon E-Sir, noting, “We shall be honoring our artists by renaming some of the roads… One of the roads in South C shall be renamed after the great hero E-Sir.” This statement was met with applause, acknowledging the cultural significance of such a move.

 

This decision follows a petition initiated by fellow musician Nameless (David Mathenge) in 2022, who had advocated for E-Sir’s recognition in this manner. The petition on Change.org had gained significant traction, highlighting the community’s desire to keep E-Sir’s memory alive in a tangible way.

 

The renaming of the road is not just a nod to E-Sir’s musical talents but also a reflection of Nairobi’s efforts to celebrate its cultural icons. It also coincides with broader discussions on how Nairobi can better support its creative industries, which are seen as pivotal to both cultural identity and economic development.

 

While the announcement has been largely welcomed, it has also sparked debate among some residents and observers about the practical implications of such honors. Critics argue that the gesture, while noble, should be accompanied by improvements in road infrastructure and maintenance to truly honor the legacy of figures like E-Sir.

 

However, the general sentiment on social media and among fans of E-Sir has been overwhelmingly positive, with many seeing this as a fitting tribute to a man who was known as “South C’s finest.”

 

The exact road in South C has yet to be officially confirmed, but the gesture has already begun to cement E-Sir’s place not just in the hearts of Kenyans but now, in the very landscape of Nairobi.

South C Road to Be Renamed ‘E-Sir’ in Tribute to Late Music Legend

Posted on by Ozymandias

Nairobi Governor Johnson Arthur Sakaja has unveiled plans to rename a road in South C in honor of the late music icon E-Sir, recognizing his significant impact on Kenya’s music and cultural landscape.

The announcement was made during the Jamhuri Day celebrations, where Sakaja emphasized the initiative as a tribute to artists who have shaped Kenya’s creative heritage.

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Raila Odinga’s Daughter Acknowledges Late E-Sir As A Genious (Video)

“We will honor our artists by renaming certain roads. I have discussed this with Honorable MP Jalang’o, and our county director is already addressing the matter. One of the roads in South C, where E-Sir grew up and began his musical journey, will be named after the legendary artist. His brother, Habib, who performed here today, can attest to his legacy,” Sakaja shared in his speech.

This decision comes in response to a 2022 online petition led by Nameless, a close friend of E-Sir, advocating for a road in South C to bear the late artist’s name. The petition, which gathered over 5,000 signatures, highlighted E-Sir’s role as a pioneer in the Kenyan music scene, describing him as “a great talent, friend, and trailblazer in his genre.” It called for the gesture as a celebration of artistic excellence and a way to honor his memory.

E-Sir, born Issah Mmari, tragically passed away in a road accident on the Nairobi-Nakuru highway 21 years ago at just 21 years old. Despite his untimely death, his music continues to inspire and is celebrated as a cornerstone of Kenyan hip-hop across East Africa.

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Nameless, Wahu, Pay Tribute To Legendary Musician E-sir In Sombre Post

Nameless has often recounted how E-Sir saved his life during the tragic accident, revealing they were in the same car, and E-Sir had swapped seats with him.

“We performed the night before and were well-rested. We left Nakuru around 11 a.m., and while distracted by a view of Lake Elementaita, the car began to veer off the road. The driver’s attempt to correct it led to the car rolling several times. E-Sir wasn’t wearing a safety belt at the time,” Nameless recounted during a tribute.

He added, “On this day, a dark cloud enveloped our skies as we lost one of Kenya’s most talented musicians. His lyrical skill and mastery of Swahili flow were unmatched. Even after his passing, his music and legacy live on. We miss you, bro. Until we meet again.”

Adorable: Never seen before photos of the late E-sir as a child

Posted on by Pauline Syombua

It has been 18 years since Singer E sir passed on following a grisly accident that took place at the great Rift Valley. His death however came  as a big shock to those who knew him, fans; and of course the Kenyan Entertainment industry which lost a super star.

Despite the untimely death, E sir’s memory remains fresh among Kenyans who loved and adored his music. With an album like Nimefika – we are yet to see an OG who can out do E sir’s work; but truth is, they don’t make them like they used to back in the day.

E sir’s school passport photo

As E sir’s family marked their son’s  18th death anniversary – the likes of Nameless, Wahu among others availed themselves; just to check on Esir’s mum who has been family to them.

Wahu shares E sir’s baby photos

Days after the visit, gospel singer Wahu who is married to Nameless (Esir’s bestfriend) unveiled never seen before photos of the late Singer leaving many talking.

Judging from the few photos – it’s evident to see that the late Singer had always been a star since birth. This is because he had a jumpy character and always mobilized those around him.

Anyway below are a few adorable photos of the late Singer as a child.

E sir as a child
Always on the move: The late E sir showing off his dance moves

Happy Birthday South C’s Finest Rapper and Lyricist, E-Sir…

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

E-Sir….

It’s a short cryptic name. It’s like a fig.  A fig is a tiny seed, but grows to gigantic proportions. From humble, feeble beginnings to a towering, overshadowing stature in total indifference to numerous challenges and pitfalls along the journey.

Perhaps, in nature a fig seed would best animate the life of Kenya’s most celebrated fallen Hip Hop artist, Issah Mmari Wangui, fondly known as E-Sir.

Today, in better circumstances, E-Sir would be marking 19 years in the Hip Hop industry. However, that bubbly candle was snuffed out in a grisly road accident on a chilly Sunday morning – 16th March, 2003 aged just 21.

Just why E-Sir fondly remains in the hearts and minds of Hip Hop fans? His was a soul born before his time – a dynamic fusion of unique talent, entrepreneurial mindset and a burning desire to be the best in the industry.

A casual online search of the republic’s most iconic musicians has E-Sir cheekily tacked in between regional musical entities – Daudi Kabaka, Les Wanyika, Them Mushrooms, et al – all with eventful careers spanning decades. E-Sir’s case is different.

In two short years, 2001 – 2003, E-sir had grown from ‘South C’s Finest’ – winning freestyle rap sessions on street corners – to a star with a huge national following.

E-Sir had an easy-flowing lyrical flow, often in flawless Swahili and became one of the pioneers of Kapuka. Signed to the label Ogopa DJs, E-Sir’s peers on the Kapuka Beat includes Nameless, Redsan, Mr. Lenny, Vinnie Banton, amongst others.

In 2003, local Hip Hop faced a daunting task to penetrate the market, as Western Hip hop had a fanatical following. Remember The East vs. West beef? Yeah, that’s what E-Sir and fellow stars had to over shadow…..

And, Oh Boy! They did it in style!

E-Sir’s ageless hits include Bamba ft. Big Pin and K-Rupt (Deceased), Mos Mos ft. Brenda, Saree, and the soulful Hamnitishi ft. Talia – which, loved ones believe has a deeper message that foresaw his imminent demise. Up to date, E-sir’s greatest hit, Bumba Train alongside close friend nameless still enjoys massive airplay on radio.

E-Sir’s musical dream still lives on with his younger brother, Habib still in the industry.

Long Live E-Sir.

Nameless Vs Jua Cali: Who made our childhood memorable?

Posted on by David Kingsley

If you are in your 20s or older then I’m sure you have nostalgia when you remember the kind of songs that rules the airwaves in the early 2000s.

Longombas
Longombas

Genge music had just emerged and almost every artist was releasing a song that was inclined towards the genre.

However, others decided to steer their own paths and their songs were received well by fans nevertheless.

Put simply, it was a beautiful time for Kenyan music. It’s almost similar to the music revolution that is being witnessed in the country at the moment.

Among the male artists that were such a big deal at the time were; Pilipili, Flexx, E-Sir, Jimwat, Nonini, Klepto, Czars, Longombas, Redsan, Deux Vultures, Historians, Prezzo, Wyre, Mr. Lenny, Jua Cali and Nameless.

Prezzo
Prezzo

Today, we will focus on the last two names i.e Nameless and Jua Cali simply because they are big deal up to this very day, aren’t they though?

We want to find out who between the two made your childhood memorable and the song that brings back the good old memories.

Admittedly, both artists are talented. They’ve both played a crucial role in shaping the Kenyan sound.

Jua Cali
Jua Cali

However, if you had to choose one of them, who would you settle on and why? Tell us below.

Victoria Kimani: I’m sure E-Sir is looking down from heaven and shaking his head at how backwards we have gone

Posted on by Martin Oduor

Victoria Kimani says Kenyan entertainment industry is in a sorry state. The sultry songbird however blames local promoters for everything.

Victoria has decided to embark on her first ever country-wide tour on her own without promoters. She will be visiting different towns starting with Kisii this coming Saturday March 10th.

“This is my first tour in Kenya. I think i just got tired of waiting for promoters to call me and pay me less than i deserve while asking me to perform as they roll out red carpet and full nine-piece bands for foreign artists.

“I decided to do it on my own with or without the corporate sponsors who unfortunately continue to push these foreign acts and use Kenyan artists as opening acts. I am taking matters into my own hands and going directly to meet my thousands of fans in their hometowns across Kenya rather than wait for promoters to do it for me,” said Victoria Kimani.

E-Sir is disappointed

Victoria also blames local promoters for obstructing Kenyan artists from getting their continental breakthrough. She says E-Sir is shaking his head from heaven.

“Kenyan promoters are holding us back. We don’t have a fiesta that celebrates us. We are always told we are second best and meant to be opening acts only. I think some artists just started believing those lies. I’m sure E-Sir is looking down from heaven and shaking his head at how backwards we have gone,” Victoria said.

 

“My wife tells me something in me changed after the accident” Nameless recounts accident that claimed E-Sir’s life

Posted on by Martin Oduor

The events of March 16th 2003 will forever remain embedded in Nameless’ life. On that date Kenya lost its greatest musician in a road accident along the Nakuru-Nairobi Highway.

Nameless and E-sir were traveling on the same car when the accident happened. The two were on their way back to Nairobi from a concert at Afraha Stadium in Nakuru.

Nameless survived the accident but something in him changed forever. The veteran singer narrated the events of March 16th 2003 during an interview with the Star.

E-sir
I didn’t sink in

Nameless says his brother broke to him news about E-Sir’s death when he was still in hospital. He opted to find E-Sir who had been taken to a different hospital because he just couldn’t believe what he was being told.

“I did not know from the time I was taken to hospital when it all happened. I was told he was in a different hospital. I had no phone or other way of reaching him. My bro came from Nairobi. I asked everyone and no one told me. My brother is the one who told me, ‘E-Sir didn’t make it. It did not sink in, like you know you were with someone and then you are told they are no more, it cannot sink in. I changed and entered in a car but when in, is when Boomba was played, and all I remember is the presenters announced it. At this point is when I broke down and that is when it sank in. I cried and as I was hearing his song playing, I could feel like he was talking to me,” said Nameless.

Moving on
Nameless

Nameless further reveals that moving on was hard for him after E-Sir’s death. The two had been performing together almost in all shows.

“Moving on without him was hard for some moment. My wife always tells me that something in me changed. It took me back and I remember going to perform a song in his remembrance. I remember when performing, I still had an injury but getting on stage and the love I felt for E-Sir just made me say that despite him going, I had to keep the fire going.”