Pilani Bubu is a South African multi award-winning storyteller, singer-songwriter, TV presenter and creative entrepreneur. She’s an indelible storyteller who loves to “share beautiful stories that help people shift their consciousness and aid transformations that can change lives.”

In this interview, she shares with Anyiko how she juggles between music, design and storytelling via a value system and prioritization matrix that always enables her first love and helps balance her joys. The power of media, strategy and networking stands out as an important system that Pilani advises artists and creatives to understand and maximize on.

She’s also dives deep into the importance of creating a body of work which has a conceptual sound or theme for creatives.Her discography includes ‘Journey of a Heart’ (2012), ‘Warrior of Light’ (2016), ‘Folklore Chapter 1’ (2022), and Lockdown Lovestory Deluxe (2023). She talks about finding joy in collaborating Kenyan artist AfroNautiq while terming her most recent album as a ‘Kenya meets South Africa’ project, having been produced by Sichangi of Kenyan music collective EA Wave.

It’s so great to meet an honest creative, making waves through multiple art forms and still being open enough to admit that it’s always a give and take.

For all Pilani Music: https://www.pilanibubu.com/music

#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #PilaniBubu Season 2 Eps 9

Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKO

Anyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/

Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotv

Anyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

VIP ACCESS SEASON 2 PLAYLIST

Boomplay Music: https://rb.gy/qkhjkk

Apple Music: https://rb.gy/lu6m1h

Spotify: https://rb.gy/lk9orq

We are connecting with Ugandan rapper - Flex D' Paper aka the Kampala Boy and the Fresh Prince Of Kla City on the podcast this week! Flex started out in the industry as early as 2012 but it was only until 2015 when he started gaining attention in the industry when he first featured on UG HipHop Cyphers. In 2016 he got named by MTV Base among the top Mcs from Uganda on the #BaseTopMCs Uganda list. ​From there onwards, there was no stopping Flex, who has released or been part of a plethora of Ugandan hit singles and street bangers.

It was until 2017, that the hip hop artist and producer released his first solo mixtape 'Not For Sale'. His first album, 'The Kampala Boy' dropped in 2021, and even though it was seen as a response to his fans who had been demanding for an album for more than a decade; Flex says that it was just the right time. For him, it's always been more important to work on a holistic discography that represent his city and country, more than just any other album for promo. "Kampala Boy" has however raised standards and changed the industry's perception towards Flex. Identity is everything when it comes to his personal branding.

For all Flex Music: https://www.itsflexdpaper.com/music

#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #FlexDPaper Season 2 Eps 8

Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKO

Anyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/

Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotv

Anyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

VIP ACCESS SEASON 2 PLAYLIST

Boomplay Music: https://rb.gy/qkhjkk

Apple Music: https://rb.gy/lu6m1h

Spotify: https://rb.gy/lk9orq

Emmanuel Jal takes me back to a tumultuous time in his life as a child soldier, recalling every single detail that lead to him being smuggled in Kenya. "It was like a movie!" He says, adding how a series of unfortunate events would later influence his belief to always want to be part of a solution,In this interview, Jal relays how powerful imagination games, and dreams (like being a teacher or a general in the army) rescued him as a kid and in life, preventing him from losing hope and suicidal thoughts.

He now lives in his light and purpose while enjoying making music, traveling the world working on various initiatives and businesses, including his most recent - the opening of Jal Gua (cafe & health store at Kenyatta Market, in Kenya). He talks all about this and the impact of trauma, while sharing how he cures trauma using personal methods that he has used to cure his own childhood trauma.This one is deep. Thank you Jal.

For all Emmanuel Jal Projects: https://emmanueljal.com/

#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #Emmanuel Jal Season 2 Eps 7

Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKO

Anyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/

Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotv

Anyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

VIP ACCESS SEASON 2 PLAYLIST

Boomplay Music: https://rb.gy/qkhjkk

Apple Music: https://rb.gy/lu6m1h

Spotify: https://rb.gy/lk9orq

Here's a proper introduction to Kenya's most unique vocalists and songwriters; genius singer and artist Brian Nadra - is the coolest of the Decimators; If I do so say myself. Before meeting and being produced by legendary Kenyan music producer and label boss Musyoka, Nadra had recorded over 30 songs that never saw the light of day because they never cut the quality he was looking for. The Nyeri-born artist started out as a rapper and an artist writing exclusively in English. His earliest music heroes include his grandfather (who used to own a lyric book), Chris Brown, Bruno Mars and Brenda Fassie. He is first to reiterate that music and life is all about learning and growing. This approach has consequently led him into writing and singing more in Swahili and Kikuyu. He says, "Language is a big part of how I look at music and what you could do with it. There are melodies and lyrics that can only be used in specific ways depending on the language."In this interview with Anyiko, Nadra shares his other passion: love for farming and conservation and how that relates to his music. He also explains how the work ethic and family he found at Decimal Records has changed him.

Stream Nadrenaline: https://platoon.lnk.to/-nadrenaline

Stream Cocktails On The House: https://onerpm.link/CocktailsOnTheHouse-DCMTRS

#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #BrianNadra Season 2 Eps 6

Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKO

Anyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/

Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotv

Anyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

VIP ACCESS SEASON 2 PLAYLIST

Boomplay Music: https://rb.gy/qkhjkk

Apple Music: https://rb.gy/lu6m1h

Spotify: https://rb.gy/lk9orq

Wangechi is one of Kenya's most acclaimed rappers. She however, has been in and out of the industry, many times caused by circumstances that were not under her control. In this interview, she looks back at how being away from the industry has impacted her. She's also finally found her own path of independence and is glad to take back a lot of "power" that she had given out to various individuals and companies supporting her brand.She delves into the making of her 2022 'Chonjo' collaborative album with Scar Mkadinali from the popular Wakadinali hip-hop group. Quite a strong comeback if you ask me. After a 4-year break, Wangechi now says that she is here to stay. As a matter of fact, she's releasing her debut album this year. It's an exclusive tell all, including the process of her songwriting, early & recent inspirations and never really having any serious beef and being OK with that.

Stream Chonjo: https://linktr.ee/chonjoalbum

#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #Wangechi Season 2 Eps 5

Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKO

Anyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/

Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotv

Anyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

VIP ACCESS SEASON 2 PLAYLIST

Boomplay Music: https://rb.gy/qkhjkk

Apple Music: https://rb.gy/lu6m1h

Spotify: https://rb.gy/lk9orq

Xenia Manasseh is captivating to say the least. Her style, love for dance, vocal tone and the clarity and pureness of her lyrics is distinct. The Kenyan singer-songwriter has released two successful EPs: Fallin’ Apart (2019) and Maybe (2022) that have brought different dimensions to the industry’s texture of R&B, Soul, Alte' Music and Pop music. From not considering herself a writer or artist, Xenia has grown into a contented artist and a writer to the stars; and that’s just her beginning. While at the verge of releasing her debut album, Xenia sits down with Anyiko to recall her journey to self-discovery that started at Berklee Music College.

She has collaborated with big names in the game including Sauti Sol, Mr Eazi, Ukweli and Idahams. Not every artist approaches collaborations like Xenia does, "It's fun" - she says. Thriving at being comfortable and experimental in her artistry has brought her so many great opportunities like songwriting camps, where she also got to write alongside Tems. She is currently signed to Soul HQ, and as a songwriter to Atlanta based label UCMG, through where she got songwriting credits on Teyana Taylor’s 'The Album' for the songs “Wrong B*tch” in which she also did background vocals and “Shoot It Up” ft Big Sean.

Stream Maybe: https://platoon.lnk.to/maybe-ukweli

#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #XeniaManasseh Season 2 Eps 4

Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKO

Anyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/

Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotv

Anyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

VIP ACCESS SEASON 2 PLAYLIST

Boomplay Music: https://rb.gy/qkhjkk

Apple Music: https://rb.gy/lu6m1h

Spotify: https://rb.gy/lk9orq

More often than not, music producers remain behind the scenes but that wasn’t going to be the case for young genius Vic West - best known for his popular hit song and video “Kuna Kuna” which featured Brandy Maina, Savara, Fathermoh and Thee Exit Band.

In this interview, Vic West takes Anyiko back to his ever evolving relationship with music. From the church choir, being the best student at computer studies in school to apprenticeship; it was always trial and error for Vic West until he would become a master of his own craft. Inspired by genius producers like Ye and Savara; Vic’s confidence in his own skill and ability has found a life of its own. He’s excellent at what he does and he knows it. It’s very powerful to be in the presence of a young bold creative ready to take over the world. Not before sharing 5 Tips to becoming a great music producer. Thank me later.

Stream Vic West Music via https://linktr.ee/officialvicwest

#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #VicWest Season 2 Eps 3

Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKO

Anyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/

Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotv

Anyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

VIP ACCESS SEASON 2 PLAYLIST

Boomplay Music: https://rb.gy/qkhjkk

Apple Music: https://rb.gy/lu6m1h

Spotify: https://rb.gy/lk9orq

With a stellar second album titled Fweny (Revelations in Luo); Coster Ojwang’ - the Kenyan singer-songwriter and contemporary impressionist introduces himself to the world as a conscious storyteller. Inspired by everyday life, his upbringing, environment and people from all walks of life; Coster has grown into an artist led by authenticity and passion for creating art, and performing live music.

In this interview, Coster is taking Anyiko through beautiful tales of Luo music and his identity; painting a picture of where he grew up in Andingo in Migori county in Western Kenya. Despite a childhood with misfortunes, his upbringing, engulfed by art and fun activities in school, would influence his future, creative path and decision to relocate to Nairobi. Coster's music career only kickstarted in 2021 with his debut album ‘Tales of the Fisherman’. He has since been on an upward trajectory, with both his painting and music excelling in equal measure. Coster is modest, honest, witty and wise at the same time. Some people were just born artists – period.

Stream Fweny: https://onerpm.link/350012605150

#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #CosterOjwang Season 2 Eps 2

Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKO

Anyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/

Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotv

Anyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

VIP ACCESS SEASON 2 PLAYLIST

Boomplay Music: https://rb.gy/qkhjkk

Apple Music: https://rb.gy/lu6m1h

Spotify: https://rb.gy/lk9orq

In the opener of the second season of VIP ACCESS, Anyiko is hosting King Kanja - highflying Kenyan artist based in the US and also known as the vibe lord. Kanja, who likes to refer to himself as a global citizen, is more often than not in very exclusive circles in the international music industry. This hasn't stopped him from upholding a very strong African brand and staying connected to his country, Kenya. In this interview Kanja talks about his strong identity, his big break and finding himself beyond the music and different genres. He cites the late Chucky Thompson - legendary US record producer - as one of his biggest mentors and teacher in the game. He sheds light on his definition of Self Made and what it means to be a Black Bottle Boy, before sharing Marketing & PR tips. It can't be a King Kanja interview without him giving us exclusive insight to coming close to legendary artists, and executives like Matthew Knowles, Wyclef Jean and Bobby V. As we close, I am recalling a very important business lesson King Kanja taught me years ago just when we started working together.

Stream VIBE LORD: https://empire.ffm.to/vibelord

Stream VIBRATIONS: https://empire.ffm.to/vibrations

#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko #KingKanja Season 2 Eps 2

Subscribe to VIP ACCESS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VIPACCESSwithANYIKO

Anyiko TV on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyikotv/

Anyiko TV on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anyikotv

Anyiko TV on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@anyikotv

VIP ACCESS SEASON 2 PLAYLIST

Boomplay Music: https://rb.gy/qkhjkk

Apple Music: https://rb.gy/lu6m1h

Spotify: https://rb.gy/lk9orq

There are not many rappers, male or female, in Africa who have a career as extensive and impactful as Nazizi. Her first single came out in 1998. She later joined two legendary music groups: Necessary Noize & East Africa Bashment Crew. From "Bless My Room", "Kenyan Girl, Kenyan Boy", "Kube" to "Combination", their songs influenced East Africa's urban sound and will be remembered as the golden era of our music. I caught up with Nazizi and we talk about being a strong female int he game. Who are the women she looks up to? What's her thoughts about the status of females in the industry? Super honoured to interview Nazizi, for a second time in my career. She's the best! So glad! Love Naz!