We at Radio 254 are ALWAYS trying to find ways to grow and promote the Kenyan music industry. Last year, in 2024, we decided that it was important to have an award ceremony that would honor and highlight the different Kenyan artists who had made an impact in the Kenyan music industry last year. In our previous studio, we created a wall of fame, but we now think that it is time for The Kenyan Music Hall of Fame.
Beyond the Radio TV 254 awards, we also believe and propose that it would be crucial for there to be a Hall of Fame for Kenyan music. The reason we say this is because it has become the norm for us as Kenyans to remember our artist after they pass on, are struggling or fall ill when it is important for us to give Kenyan artists their flowers not after something has happened that reminds us of but as they are active and even in retirement. An annual award ceremony is a great way to honor Kenyan artists who are active in the scene, while a hall of fame is a great way to honor our Kenyan music legends.
There are many Kenyan artists who impacted the Kenyan music industry that would be great to honor. We believe that it is also important to allow our legendary artists to retire rather than selfishly wish for them to make a comeback when that chapter of their lives has already passed. An example of groups that have retired from actively making music that would be great for the Kenyan Music Hall of Fame are Kalamashaka, K SOUTH, Gidi Gidi Maji Maji, Camp Mulla, and The Kansoul. All of these groups had monumental impacts on shaping the Kenyan music industry. Some Kenyan female artists who would be contenders for the Kenyan Music Hall of Fame are Achieng Abura, Mercy Myra, Esther Wahome, and Wahu. In terms of producers, Kenyan music would not be where it is today without the efforts of producers like Bruce Odhiambo, Tedd Josiah, Clemmo, Lucas Bikedo, Musyoka, Ulopa, and Marcus Kibukosya. We really need to honor our Kenyan music legends. Who would you like to see on the Kenyan Music Hall of Fame? Should it be a list or a permanent structure? We would love to get your thoughts on this, please let us know.