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Njerae’s Rise: Spotify EQUAL Africa Artist of the Month
Getting to Know Njerae
What’s one surprising thing your fans may not know about you?
I’ve never had any other job other than doing music. I’ve never been employed.
When did you realize music was your calling?
I’m very introverted. Growing up, I kept a lot inside until it became overwhelming. Around the time of terrorist attacks in the country especially one involving a matatu bombing I started writing. It began as poetry, with no melody.
Eventually, I picked up the guitar. That’s when the writing turned into music. It became my way of expressing things I couldn’t say out loud. That’s my reason for doing this.
Which African artists shaped your musical taste?
I listened to a lot of Sauti Sol, Phy, Tiwa Savage, and Wahu. But Sauti and Phy stood out most. Sauti showed me that it was possible to make it. Phy, however, was the first African woman I saw playing guitar on stage, singing sad love songs people still jammed to.
When she released Taboo, I knew I had to go to Sauti Academy. And that’s how I got here.
A Sound That Heals
How would you describe your sound to someone hearing you for the first time?
My music is soulful and refreshing. It’s like a breath of fresh air—a nice sigh of relief.
Njerae’s Rise: Spotify EQUAL Africa Artist of the Month
Advice for Dreamers
Any advice for someone afraid to follow their dream?
If you’re dreading it, is it really your dream? (Chuckles). Nothing good comes easy.
By next year, I’ll have pursued music for ten years. But most people only started hearing my songs two years ago. The process takes time.
People told me my music was too wordy or “too white.” I’m glad I didn’t listen. At the end of the day, the dream is mine. I know what I want from it and the satisfaction I get isn’t for anyone else to understand. Keep pushing it will come together.
Navigating the Industry as a Woman
How does being a woman influence your journey in the music industry?
Being a woman artist is not easy. But I’ve made a choice not to let that deter me. My gender should not stop anyone from listening to my music or prevent me from living my dream just like any male artist.
There are pros and cons. But if you know your values and uphold them, you’ll make it. Focus on your dreams. Don’t let anything or anyone come between you and your goals.
How does your perspective shape your artistry?
I never shy away from saying, “Because I’m a woman, I need this.” There are things I require that male artists may not like a changing room, a mirror, or space for a makeup artist.
But I don’t let those needs define or limit me. I do what I do with confidence and pride.
Final Word: EQUAL, Empowerment, and Purpose
“This is such a huge opportunity for me,” Njerae says again, reflecting on the EQUAL Africa honor. “It’s amazing to be on a platform that empowers women.”
“I live by the quote: ‘Dress for the job you want, not the one you have.’ I won’t let being a woman interfere with my dreams. I’m going after what I want and I’m not dimming my light for anyone.”
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