With nearly 15 years in the music industry, Brian Ouko Omollo, popularly known by his stage name Khaligraph Jones, has cemented his place as a pioneer in Kenyan hip-hop.
From setting trends in rap to expanding his brand beyond music, the rapper has mastered the art of staying relevant.
In this exclusive interview, the OG opens up about his journey, the sacrifices he has made, and why his name still carries weight even when he takes a break from releasing new music.
I have been keeping busy with a variety of creative endeavours, including artwork and even casting.
Brian Ouko, a musician, popularly known by the stage name Khaligraph Jones, performs during the NRGWave Festival in Mombasa on December 29, 2019.
Photo credit: Wachira Mwangi | Nation Media Group
You are one of those artistes who remain relevant even without constantly releasing new music. What is the secret?
The secret is building a brand. I have always understood that I am more than just a musician; I am a brand, and everything I do must contribute to strengthening that brand. My focus has been on making myself a businessman as well as an artiste. When I first came to Nairobi, I knew I had to work hard and establish myself. Over the years, I have built a name that people recognise and respect, regardless of whether I have new music out or not. Many artistes struggle with this because they rely solely on their music for relevance. I am a pioneer in Kenyan hip-hop, and I have worked tirelessly to solidify my position in the industry.
When you talk about creating your brand, what exactly do you mean? What steps did you take to ensure you don’t have to release music constantly to stay relevant?
I did what was necessary. I put in the work. I was one of the first Kenyan artists to start releasing multiple songs in quick succession.
Before me, it was unheard of for an artiste to drop a song today and then another one the next week.
But I set the pace. I created a movement. Because of that, when you ask young rappers today who their role model is, most of them will tell you it’s OG (Khaligraph's street moniker). They saw the work I put in, and they respected that.
What does it take to be confident in this industry, sometimes being away from home and family?
Every penny you make; you reinvest it back into the music. Many people don’t understand the sacrifices that have to be made.
If you are not willing to give 100 percent, then you should not even start.
Kenyan Rapper Khaligraph Jones performing during OktobaFest Event on October 28, 2023.
Photo credit: Bonface Bogita | Nation Media Group
It has been almost 15 years since you joined the industry. How was that journey of becoming a household name?
The transition took time. It was a process. I had to be where I was five or 10 years ago to be where I am now. Without those struggles, I wouldn’t be here. It is all about growth. You learn little by little, and eventually, it shapes you into the artist you are meant to be. Those years, 2015, 2016, and 2017 were crucial for me. I was growing, evolving, and refining my craft.
Now, I can look back and appreciate the journey because it made me who I am today.
What is one phase in your life that you wouldn’t want to go back to?
Poverty. No one wants to go back to struggling. I know what it means to go without, to hustle hard just to survive. I have worked too hard to go back to that life. That’s why I keep pushing forward.
Did you ever feel traumatised by music?
Not really. I have always done music because I love it. Whether it made money or not, I kept doing it. Of course, there were tough times, such as getting booed off stage and being told to leave, but those are just growing pains. Every artist goes through them. They never made me want to quit; they only made me stronger.
How do you view music now? Is it just entertainment, or has it evolved into something more?
Music is a business. In the beginning, it was just a passion project for me. I was even a bouncer at one point because music wasn’t paying my bills. But as I grew and built my brand, I saw the bigger picture. Now, it’s a profession. It’s entertainment, yes, but it’s also a business. You have to approach it with that mindset if you want longevity.
Brian Ouko Omollo, popularly known by his stage name Khaligraph Jones performing during Sol Fest Event at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi on November 4, 2023.
Photo credit: Bonface Bogita | Nation Media Group
Do you believe that everything you and your family have today comes from music?
I know so. Everything I have is because of music. In Kenya, there’s always skepticism when an artist becomes successful. People assume there’s something else going on, like money laundering or some hidden hustle. But anyone who knows me understands that my entire success has come purely from music, nothing else.
When we talk about music, it’s not just about the royalties you earn from platforms like Spotify. Music is what builds your brand, and that brand is what attracts investors and corporate partnerships. That’s why I work with major brands. It’s not just about streaming numbers or YouTube views; it’s about the influence you have. The stronger your influence, the more opportunities you create.
Which brand do you think elevated your career the most?
All of them. I have worked with many brands like Monster Energy, Coca-Cola, and Safaricom and every experience has contributed to my growth.
Have you ever declined to work with a brand?
Yes, many times. There are so many reasons, sometimes due to finances or policies in contracts that might jeopardise my brand.
An exterior view of rapper Khaligraph Jones' palatial home.
Photo credit: Pool | Nation
In 2024, one of the things that made headlines was your massive mansion. Tell us about it.
Yes, my house became a topic of discussion, but honestly, I built it because I wanted to. People always have opinions but they no longer count. Some say it’s too big, others question why I need such a large space. But at the end of the day, I know why I did it. Social media will always talk, but I don’t live for people’s opinions.
Maybe I have a big family, maybe I have cousins who need space. The truth is, I built the house because I love it, and I wanted to create a comfortable home for myself and my family.
It’s funny because, while some Kenyans were busy criticising, my house was trending in Nigeria, with many people congratulating me on my success. Even in Tanzania, people were saying I had set a new standard. That is what matters to me, showing that anything is possible. I came from Kayole, a place where many don’t believe they can achieve such things. My journey proves that hard work pays off.
Rapper Khaligraph Jones' palatial home.
Photo credit: Pool | Nation
Can you share how much you spent on the house?
Do you have a studio in your house?
Of course. My house has everything I need. But I don’t post it often. I like to keep certain things private. When I do share, it is because I feel like it. People say I am flaunting, but the truth is, I am just living my life.
I remember when I used to post from other small studios, no one said anything. But now, because it’s in my house, suddenly it’s an issue? It doesn’t change anything for me. I worked hard for this, and I will enjoy it how I want.
Are we expecting a new hit soon?
Yes, dropping on Thursday. It is the biggest thing ever, Khali Cartel 5, featuring artistes from across East Africa.
Have you ever made any financial mistakes?
Of course, we are all human, and mistakes happen. But what matters is learning from them and bouncing back stronger.
I always advise artistes to buy what they can afford and not to chase after luxury vehicles just because others have them.
You never truly know how someone else acquired their wealth, so it is important to stay in your lane and live within your means.
I once bought land that turned out to have legal issues, and it became a major setback. Experiences like these teach valuable lessons about handling money wisely.
What is one achievement in your youth that you are most proud of?
Without a doubt, discovering music. Music has given me everything I have today. That, for me, is the greatest achievement as I turn 35 years later this year.
