TAKE 5: Multitalented MacKinlay Mutsembi

MacKinlay Mutsembi is a recording multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger and performer, pushing the limits at the fore of Kenya’s dynamic music scene. Though his main instrumental focus is now on trumpet, he has been featured on a variety of stages playing all types of horns

1. Why the trumpet? Why not the piano, trombone, French horn...

I grew up in a Salvation Army brass band so there was no piano, unfortunately. Out of the eight instruments I play, the trumpet is the wildest. It is hard to tame. At the same time, the trumpet is beautiful. It is powerful, it can slur, scream, and do many unimaginable things - and I might still have a gig rousing the dead when the Lord comes back – Last Trumpet? The trumpet is still quite a rarity here in Kenya. 

2. How is your day job like?

I work from home. I do management consulting, crafting strategy and organisational systems for non-governmental organisations and Small and medium-sized enterprises. I also worked in education and youth sectors a while back; helped set up an organisation that worked to enhance access to education and employment for disadvantaged children and youth in Kilifi.

3. When is the album with Nairobi Horns Project, your newest band, coming out?’

May 2017. I promise. Nairobi Horns Project released an extended play (EP) in December titled Kipepeo – a taste of things to come.

4. Who do you look up to musically in Kenya? Who would you love to work with?

I am a sucker for any original sound. I admire artists who have managed to create a sound and a brand in Kenya and have carried this beyond our borders like Sauti Sol, as well as those who have written timeless music – Fadhili Williams, Daudi Kabaka, and a whole group of new artists: Nameless, Eric Wainaina, Mercy Masika and a special group of instrumentalists who have absolute mastery of their instruments across the genres.  I love hip hop. My act fuses African rhythm, pop and jazz. I don’t picture an audience in long flowing gowns and black suits. It definitely appeals to an audience that appreciates good grounded music but also spiced up with contemporary influence. In addition to Nairobi Horns Project, who are the coolest peeps in town, I like to work with DJs to fuse studio and live elements. There is a project we did with DeeJay Kace dropping later in January which I am really excited about.  

5. What is your version of protest?

Action. Doing. Beyond the noise making. Speaking out, standing up, and if need be, not shying away from paying the price for what you believe in. We could do a with a lot of more that as a country.