Nairobi, Kenya – September 12th, 2024 – Emerging Kenyan rapper Yaro B. dropped his highly anticipated sophomore EP, ‘THIS YEAR’, marking a significant evolution in his musical career. Known for his raw lyricism and ability to weave authentic narratives, Yaro B. pushes the boundaries of his artistry in this six-track project, experimenting with new sounds and exploring deeply personal themes.
‘THIS YEAR’ features collaborations with some of Kenya’s finest talents, including Big Yasa, Tulia, Shazzy B, Mali Boozy, and LB (El Presidente). Yaro B. notably ventures into the drill genre for the first time on the standout track, “Kuja na Form,” featuring Big Yasa. The track is an energetic anthem that discusses the thrill of parties, but with a reflective twist, touching on Yaro B.’s personal experience of an overdose during high school. The song has quickly gained attention across Kenya’s hip-hop scene.
Reflecting on his creative process, Yaro B. shared, “I wanted to step out of my comfort zone with this EP. When I started working on ‘Kuja na Form,’ I felt that drill was the perfect genre to experiment with. It’s raw, bold, and it gave me the chance to push myself as an artist.”
The EP’s opening track, “Intro,” showcases Yaro B.’s creativity and the benefits of being an independent artist with full creative control. He invited fans and friends to send in voice notes of the phrase ‘This Year’ in different languages, blending these with audio clips from interviews and shout-outs from Kenyan celebrities like Azziad Nasenya, CMB Prezzo, and Khaligraph Jones. This unique introduction sets the tone for a project that balances artistic experimentation with deeply personal storytelling.
A particularly introspective moment comes on the track “41,” where Yaro B. delves into his personal journey. The title refers to the number derived from adding the digits of his birthdate (09/04/1999), symbolizing his life path and purpose. In this song, Yaro B. reflects on his struggles and triumphs, offering fans an intimate glimpse into his world. “41” was also the first single released from the EP, giving listeners an early taste of the emotional depth to come.
The EP’s lead singles, “Kuja na Form” and “So Fine,” highlight Yaro B.’s versatility as an artist. While “Kuja na Form” hits hard with drill-inspired beats, “So Fine” offers a smoother, more melodic vibe. The latter, a collaboration with Tulia and Shazzy B, contrasts laid-back rhythms with Tulia’s soulful vocals and Shazzy B.’s silky delivery.
The title ‘THIS YEAR’ encapsulates Yaro B.’s determination and belief in persistence. He describes the phrase as a mantra for success, embodying the uncertainty and optimism that come with pursuing a career in the music industry. “You never know when you’ll release that hit that changes everything. For me, ‘this year’ could be 2024, 2025, or even later. It’s about believing in the process and trusting that your time will come,” says Yaro B.
Initially, the EP was set for release on August 27th, a special date chosen by Yaro B. to honor his best friend, Rose, who holds a deep significance in his life. However, after experiencing technical issues, the project was briefly taken down before its official re-release on September 12th. Rose’s influence can be felt throughout the EP, with Yaro even dedicating a shout-out to her in one of the tracks, underscoring her importance in his life.
Produced by a roster of top-notch Kenyan producers, ‘THIS YEAR’ blends Yaro B.’s signature lyrical style with new sonic elements, establishing him as one of the most innovative voices in Kenyan hip-hop today. With this EP, Yaro B. demonstrates not only his growth as an artist but also his willingness to take creative risks and share his personal journey with the world.
‘THIS YEAR’ is now available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Boomplay, Deezer, and Mdundo.
Follow Yaro B:
Instagram: @yaro_b_official
Twitter: @Yaro_b_
Facebook: @YaroB.real
TikTok: @yaro_b_
- CECE the G.O.A.T: Kenya’s Rising Multi-Talented Artist Redefining Afro, RnB & HipHop - October 29, 2024
- X.O: Kenya’s Rising Afrobeat Star Blending Tradition with Modern Rhythms - October 22, 2024
- Meet Maali: The Genre-Blurring Sensation Taking Over the Music Scene - October 15, 2024
