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Katunge, a seasoned communications professional at the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), has released her debut album, The Unfolding, marking a significant milestone in a music journey that began nearly two decades ago but was put on pause to raise her son.
Speaking to KBC Digital, she said music was always a passion for her.
“Music has always been on my to-do list,” she said in a recent interview. “It’s always been something I’ve wanted to do, but didn’t quite get the chance because at the time, about 19 years back, I had to take care of my son. He was around one then, so the demands were too heavy to allow me to move into music.”
Now, with her children older and her dream still intact, Katunge is stepping into the industry with heartfelt conviction.
Her first album, The Unfolding, features seven tracks available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon.
“This is the first album I have put together,” she said. “I’ve drawn a lot of inspiration from my family, my sons, friends, and the tragic loss of my dad. From my experiences all around.”
While she has no favourite from the album, she says each song is deeply personal. Here We Are reflects her journey through motherhood.
“It speaks to a very important part of my life. That’s why I deliberately had to sound a little young, like a girl, because I had my first child when I was around 26. And I’ve grown with them through the years.”
In Big Brown Seat, Katunge pays tribute to her late father, while Eh Mungu is a spiritual appeal for mercy.
“In the track, I’m asking God to create in me a pure heart,” she said. “I acknowledge that before You, I have sinned but I’m appealing to God’s mercy.”
Other tracks include Galaxy, which encourages women to take a chance on love again, and Stars Aligned, a reflection on past relationships. In My Cup speaks to the uncertainties of adult life.
“There are times you feel like you’re running out of options. So here you are saying, ‘I know, my cup. You will not let my cup run dry,” she explains.
Despite her demanding role in public service, Katunge sees music not just as a passion, but as a career she’s serious about pursuing.
“Yes, I’d like to venture into music as a career, that’s why I have this album out. It’ll take time, but I want to keep my options open. I still have my job, but now here I am, trying to put my foot into music, something that’s a talent.”
Katunge, who performs under the same name also emphasised the importance of acknowledging the source of her gift.
“Yes, you’d say, ‘Oh, Katunge, you sing so well,’ but I want you to acknowledge that all good things come from God, including this gift.”
Towards the end of the phone interview, she expresses heartfelt gratitude to her family and the team that helped bring The Unfolding to life.
“I thank God for the gift of singing and for choosing to give me this gift among many others. I also wish to thank my family for encouraging me and telling me it’s not too late to do what I want.”
She recorded most of the music at Music Grand Royale, and extends her appreciation to the owner GK, who also wrote some of the songs.
“I thank Geejo Hero, Modest, Nkatha Muthoni, August, Mikey Muema and Andrew Wambua,” she adds.
As for her future, she remains optimistic and is looking forward to “working with different acts.” Her parting shot? “Don’t stop believing!”
