According to the Luo community of Western Kenya, the name Anyango is given to a girl born in the morning, usually around 10 am. Eriko Mukoyama, a young Japanese artiste and the first female nyatiti player in the world identifies with this name, and is so known by her fans. She was given the name by her nyatiti master, Okumu K’Orengo. It just happens that she was actually born in the morning!
Over the years Anyango has been closely associated with Ketebul Music, both socially and business-wise. Apart from her beautiful voice and her incredible nyatiti playing skills, she possesses a lively and jovial spirit, always surprising people by her ability to speak Swahili and Luo.
On the 16th of February 2016, Anyango paid us yet another visit. This time, the aim was to sign a distribution contract with our organization. This basically makes Ketebul Music her official agents in Eastern Africa. Ketebul Music is now Anyango’s official representative and distributor in Eastern Africa.
During her visit we also worked on a compilation called Anyango! The Safari of Eriko Mukayama. This compilation comprises 15 songs, 2 of which are new, recorded at Ketebul Music Studios in 2015.
One of the two songs features Kenge Kenge, a traditional band from the Luo community. The band is made up of young musicians singing in the benga rhythm.
Anyango will be coming back to Kenya mid this year for a series of shows to promote the new album.