Hip-hop, faith and success

Maluda is quite an interesting name; how did you come up with it and what is your real name?

Maluda is actually an acronym for Music and Love under Divine Authority. I figured that, since I love music and am a Christian, I should look for a word  that encompasses all these. I was also trying to avoid having a two-name stage name. My real name is Tony Mukubi.

Where did it all start for you?

When I was a kid, my uncle used to play a lot of hip-hop by Lost Boyz, 2Pac, and Da Brat, among others. Rapping just grew on me. At some point while living in Dandora with my mother, I would knock on the door of K-Shaka’s house hoping they would open, but they never did. (Smiles)

What was it like growing up like?

I was born in Uhuru estate but lived in many places in Eastlands, including  Dandora, Umoja, Bahati and Jericho Lumumba. Life in Jericho was not easy.

I saw some really crazy things  when I was growing up: I saw  people get shot, shoot-outs between gangs, muggings, and drugs exchanging hands, among other criminal activities. Jericho is one odd place to live. Life was tough, but I guess that’s what made me who I am, and I’m going to use the platform I have to change all that.

You’ve been involved with a lot of musical projects, the most familiar of which is the recent one with Khaligraph Jones. What part did you play  in that project?

I’m working on my second album titled Lamp on a Stand, and it has me working hard. I want it to sound good, that’s why I’ve been up and down.

I  also want to expand and get out of the box that people want to place me in. My new song featuring Khaligraph is titled "Have Mercy",  and is the second single from my next album, which  is already out, and soon to be followed by  its video.

The first single off the album was with Juliani, and it will be released on September 2, which is my birthday.

How do you go about writing your songs?

I love writing about everyday things like economic, social and spiritual  issues because people go through them and it’s easy to relate to a song if it’s talking about such issues.

I do my own writing and it does not take me long to write, especially when the beat is inspiring. I can write on the spot and I’m done.

Who brings out the best in you as a rapper?

Good question. Three people do. My producer, Othole, always has my back and wants to see me succeed. He challenges me when I am in the studio and gives me ideas.

Second is American Gospel artiste LeCrae (Devaughn Moore). I love his zeal for reaching out to the lost. Incidentally, I gave my life to Christ after listening to his album.

Number three is 50 Cent for his rapping skills and the ability to sing and rap; I really admire that.

What makes you different from other rappers?

I sing about real issues and my music has content .God gave me this gift to reach out to people, not to sing bogus and self-centered music. With me, what you see is what you get.

Which artistes have you worked with?

I’ve worked with Anto Neo Soul, Juliani, Khaligraph Jones. I’m a bit reluctant to name the ones on my upcoming  album because I might ruin the surprise. I’m trying to reach out to Sage. I love her, not in the romantic sense, but I really admire her music.

What motivates you?

The word of God. Romans 1:16, which says, “I’m not ashamed of the gospel of Christ it’s the power unto salvation” is my motto.

Gospel artiste LeCrae also motivates me because of his passion for the Gospel. Juliani motivates me to be energetic and creative while 50 Cent motivates me with his business acumen. I’d like to have my own empire one day. 

Describe your sound?

My sound is conscious hip-hop. But on my new album I  blending a number of sounds so it should be really interesting. I just want to push the boundaries with this second album.

The one place you would really like to play in the world?

I have travelled much yet, but from what I have seen, Miami, Florida, looks like a lively place to sing and engage crowds. However, I’d like to place Jericho Lumumba on top of the list because of its vibrant and robust nature.

What are your plans for the future?

I want to continue releasing realistic music and reaching out to people who want to hear the truth. I am also hoping to mentor those who want to join the music industry. I’d also want to settle down and have a family soon.

How old are you?

I am 26!

Apart from rapping, what do you enjoy doing?

I love watching informative programmes such as National Geographic, CNN, Aljazeera, and Sky News. I also practice eschatology therefore most of the time you will find me reading the bible. 

What is the most memorable moment in your career?

I remember having a number one song on a Homeboyz Radio show for a whole month. That was my third number one song and I felt I was at my peak! It was so humbling to have fans from all over calling, texting and voting for my song.  I will always remember that month.

What’s the greatest challenge you have ever faced in this industry?

My biggest challenge came when I was about to start working my second album. Initially, I had 16 new songs but when I sought help from artistes for collaborations, none was willing to be featured with me. I followed some artistes for more than a year – I won’t mention names.

I felt rejected. I decided to write a new album titled Lamp on a Stand in which I reach out to different artistes.

Fame is really getting into the head of most of our gospel artistes; I wish I had more time to talk about this...

Of all your songs, do you have a favourite one?

That’s a tough one! I usually say my next song is my best. However, my upcoming single featuring Ekko Didda will be a definite hit. Right now, Have Mercy, which features Khaligraph Jones, is  getting a good airplay and I can listen to it all day.

When do you find time to relax?

Wow! Honestly I have no time to relax. I have a lot to do after this interview and I’m supposed to handle other businesses. I will relax when I die. Right now I just want to get things rolling. Sometimes it feels like I don’t have enough time...so much to do, man!

Do you think Kenyan rap artistes have what it takes to compete on the international scene?

Yes we do! I feel like the ordinary artiste in Kenya is usually frustrated by a lot of issues and we should support our own artistes. Fans and the media should root for us instead of beating us down.

I think  we are just as talented as,  if not more talented, than our other African counterparts. We just need the right guys to have our backs and advise us where we go  wrong and lift us up even when we are doing well. Give us a chance, man!