Afropop Worldwide

Afropop Classic April 4, 2024

In this episode, we trace the history of country music in Kenya, dating back to the 1920s and '30s when local populations first heard Jimmie Rodgers on early country western 78 records, to the current day, where the clubs of Nairobi are filled with rising stars bringing their own unique sounds to country music. Hear their takes on the hits of Don Williams, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton and more. Tune in for an interview and performance from Kenyan country singer Steve Rogers, radio and TV presenters Catherine Ndonye and David Kimitho, music historian Elijah Wald, and Olvido Records founder Gordon Ashworth.

Produced by Brandi Howell.

Artists
- John Nzenze
- Reuben Kigame
- Don Williams
- Sir Elvis
- Jimmie Rogers
- Sammy Ngaku-Rosana
- Herbert Misango
- Frances Rugwiti
- Carlos Kiba
- Ythera Cowgirl
- Steve Rogers
- HM Karuiki
- Joseph Kamaru
Countries
- United States
- Zimbabwe
- Kenya
Genre
- Gospel
- Country & western (African)