Joseph Kamaru

Joseph Kamaru (8 November 1938 – 3 October 2018) was a Kenyan rock and gospel musician and political activist. He was a leading Kikuyu musician,^[1] who has sold about half a million records.^[2] He was known for his politically motivated songs. His music covered the teachings of life and sexual harassment in Kenyan politics and social culture. He was known for his friendship with Presidents Jomo Kenyatta and Daniel arap Moi.

Kamaru died on 3 October 2018 at the age of 79 at a hospital in Nairobi from complications of Parkinson's disease.^[3]

Joseph Kamaru was born in 1938 in Kangema, Murang’a County. In 1957, he moved to Nairobi, where he worked in small jobs including domestic service while pursuing his interest in music. ^[3] With his savings he purchased a guitar, which became the tool that launched his career.

By the mid-1960s, he had begun recording, and his breakthrough came with the release of songs such as “Ndari ya Mwalimu” in 1966. His music quickly stood out for its strong storytelling and cultural commentary, which resonated with audiences across Kenya.

Kamaru’s artistry modernized Kikuyu folk music by blending it with benga rhythms, creating a unique sound that shaped popular music in Kenya. He is estimated to have recorded over 1,000 songs across both secular and gospel genres . His catalog addressed themes ranging from love and family to cultural identity and spirituality.^[4]

He also mentored many younger musicians through his Nairobi studio, supporting careers of upcoming artists in central Kenya and beyond. Beyond performance, Kamaru became an advocate for artists’ rights and was among the pioneers of the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK), which was established to protect musicians’ royalties .

In the 1990s, he announced his Christian faith and transitioned to gospel music, recording extensively in the genre while continuing to influence secular musicians. His ability to thrive in both traditions established him as a versatile figure in Kenyan music.

Throughout his career, Kamaru enjoyed access to Kenya’s political leadership. He was regularly invited to perform at state events and to accompany delegations abroad, including cultural tours where his music represented Kenya on international stages.These associations elevated his role from musician to cultural ambassador, and his work was widely regarded as reflecting the values and aspirations of post-independence Kenya.^[4]

Joseph Kamaru is remembered as a pioneer of modern Kikuyu and Kenyan music, a mentor to generations of artists, and a cultural icon. His music continues to be celebrated for its storytelling and authenticity, and his influence is evident in the continued popularity of Kikuyu benga.

He passed away on 3 October 2018 at MP Shah Hospital in Nairobi, aged 79. ^[3] Tributes hailed him as a national treasure whose impact on music and culture would endure for generations.

His artistic legacy is also carried forward by his grandson, Joseph Kamaru (KMRU), an internationally acclaimed ambient and electronic musician based in Berlin.^[5]

Albums

• Ndari ya Mwalimu ,Hurira Tindo,Muti Uyu Mukuona,(Released in 1960s)
• Nyimbo cia Mau-Mau Vol. 1 (released June 21, 2019)
• Kikuyu Folk Songs Vol. 2 (released July 12, 2019)
• Muthunguci (released October 4, 2020)
• Kimiiri (released April 17, 2020)
• Marua ma Gathoni (Macokio) [Reissue]
• Ngima Macokio (released November 4, 2022)
• Mukarara Nake [A1] (released February 20, 2020)
• Mundu ni Muritu (released February 5, 2021)