Celebrated percussionist, Kasiva Mutua, has released a new single and video, “Ndikweteela”, ahead of her album release in February.
The Kenyan vocalist, guitarist and storyteller marks the beginning of a transformative journey with this new single which is the lead single to her highly anticipated debut album, “Desturi” scheduled for release on 14th February 2025.
““Ndikweteela” is a poignant exploration of love and loss, capturing the bittersweet pain of a long-distance relationship’s unravelling,” she says. “The song reflects the heartbreak, insecurities, and irony of infidelity in separation.”
Written as a final farewell, “Ndikweteela” is both a tender apology and a resolute embrace of healing and renewed joy.
The accompanying music video delivers a powerful visual narrative. Shot in the landscape of Ol Donyo Nyokie, home to the Maasai people of Kenya the video is rich with cultural symbolism.
A Maasai man dances alongside Kasiva as she plays the drum—an instrument traditionally reserved for men in many African traditions. The shot offers up Kasiva as a rebel and celebrates her role in breaking gender barriers and honouring her position as a transformative force.
The rhythm that has defined Kasiva Mutua’s extraordinary career as one of Africa’s foremost percussionists now carries a stunning new melody: her own voice. This single marks a new chapter in Kasiva’s career, revealing herself as more than a percussionist.
Grounded in Kamba lyrics, “Ndikweteela” blends a number of African sounds. The sound draws from the rhythmic influences of Maloya music from La Réunion, coastal Kenya’s Chakacha traditions, and Isukuti beats from Western Kenya.