A growing number of Kenyan artists are seeing their work recognised by the Recording Academy, the body behind the prestigious Grammy Awards. The latest to join this elite group is Savara, whose songs are now officially “in consideration” for a nomination at the upcoming ceremony.
This is a major step for any artist, meaning their music has been vetted and accepted for review by the Academy, moving them one step closer to a coveted Grammy nomination.
Savara, a member of the celebrated Kenyan band Sauti Sol, has entered two of his solo tracks into consideration across two major categories.
His track, “Sianda,” is being considered for Best African Music Performance, and the song “Show-You Off” is in the running for Best Global Music Performance.
It is important to note that this is not a final nomination. It is the crucial first step where the music is placed on the ballot for voting and members of the Recording Academy to review.
Savara is not alone in flying the Kenyan flag on the global music platform. Other prominent Kenyan artists have also seen their music gain consideration for the Grammys in the past and current cycles, highlighting the nation’s rising influence in global music genres.
Rapper Octopizzo has previously made multiple appearances on the Grammy consideration lists, particularly for the 63rd and 64th Grammy Awards. His submissions have spanned various genres, including “Che Che” and “Wakiritho” in the Best Rap Performance category, “Another Day” in both Record of the Year and Best Melodic Rap categories, and “Lela” (featuring Suzanna Owiyo) for Best Global Music Performance. His album Jungle Fever is nominated for Best Global Music Album.
Octopizzo’s consistent presence in the consideration process has paved the way for more East African hip-hop to be recognised internationally.
The highly talented singer and songwriter Fena Gitu has also been actively pushing for Kenyan representation. Fena’s efforts have included submissions for consideration, though the specific songs often vary from year to year.
More significantly, Fena Gitu was invited to join The Recording Academy’s class of new members. As a voting member, she now has a direct hand in the process, choosing which artists and songs move forward to the official nominations.
Fena Gitu’s membership in The Recording Academy gives her a chance to shed light on the African continent, particularly Kenya, during the voting process.
This collective presence signifies a massive win for the Kenyan music industry, proving that their unique sound is resonating with a global audience of industry professionals. The next stage involves the intense voting process, where these hopeful tracks will compete for a final nomination spot.
