Kenya’s rising hip-hop star, Ganjor, is taking the music scene by storm with the release of his third single, “Gangsta Love.” Also the title track of his debut EP, it serves as an introduction to the Kenyan rapper’s hybrid international sound that blends hip hop, dancehall and electronic elements.
The experimental Kenyan song kicks off with lively trumpet notes, teasing a sense of minimalism before delving into an 80s-inspired techno interlude. The result? A unique romantic hip-hop jam, with sensual lyrics like, “She tells me baby hurry, I wanna be your lady, she says all she needs is some Gangsta Love.”
However, “Gangsta Love” is not just another love song. Ganjor explains that it’s an anthem for couples who find themselves apart more often than not. When they do reunite, it’s a movie – they book an Airbnb in the city and have the time of their lives. But in the morning they have to part ways.
The music video, a minimalistic piece of art, perfectly complements the song. Ganjor pours his heart into every note, serenading a suspended microphone in a style reminiscent of “Colors Studio.” He then steps out into a lush vibrant green setting, reflecting his love for nature. Throughout the video, mirror effects add a visual aesthetic that will captivate your senses.
Speaking of “ColorsxStudio,” the German music performance platform is renowned for showcasing emerging talents through videos with minimalist aesthetics. Since its establishment in February 2016, their YouTube channel has garnered over 5 million subscribers and nearly 2 billion combined views. What sets them apart is their unique approach of filming artists on a stage against a backdrop of a specific colour.
And this is where it gets interesting. The “Gangsta Love” music video, with its unmistakable “Colors x Studio” aesthetic, premiered on October 16th, 2023. In a matter of three days, Kenyan R&B singer Lisa Oduor-Noah made history by becoming the first Kenyan artist to grace the Colors x Studio stage. Xenia Manasseh was next thanks to a collaboration with Spotify Africa.
Coincidence? Or perfect timing? You be the judge.
Ganjor’s “Gangsta Love” is a game-changer in the Kenyan music scene. And a sign of great things to come for this Kenyan hiphop artist on the global music stage. The release is also a tantalising teaser of Ganjor’s much-anticipated debut album “The Great Son of McBeth,” slated for December 4th, 2023.
Until then, listen to “Gangsta Love” on your favourite streaming platform.
And watch the Colors-inspired music video below
