Njeri Mwengi, popularly known by her stage name Njerae, has opened up about her inspiring rise in the Kenyan music scene, sharing how her personal struggles and deep emotions have shaped her art.
Speaking during her appearance on This Friday With Betty on TV47, the R&B singer recalled how her journey began in Mombasa as a shy, introverted child.
From a very young age, music became her refuge. “I’m not someone who would go and talk about my feelings, but I put that now in a song because it feels like you listen to me when I sing,” Njerae revealed.
She started performing at local music festivals when she was just three years old, gradually developing her voice and confidence.
Her first attempt at serious songwriting, she explained, came from tragedy.
“There was a terrorism attack back in the day, and I tried to put myself in the shoes of someone my age who had actually been affected. That was the first time I ever wrote music from a point of emotion.”
This vulnerability and honesty have since become trademarks of her music. Njerae believes that by addressing real issues, her songs resonate deeply with fans who may be silently going through the same struggles.
The singer admitted she is often overwhelmed by the love she receives from her audience.
“It always just amazes me every single time I get on a big stage. I was recently in Meru with Bensoul and I was so surprised that these guys were singing word for word all the songs. It’s such a humbling experience to know that people are listening to me.”
For Njerae, her music is not just entertainment but a form of storytelling and healing.
From turning pain into powerful lyrics to witnessing thousands sing along to her songs, her journey proves that authenticity continues to win hearts.
