Ian Oure, popularly known as Iyanii, has taken the music scene by storm with his latest hit, Kifo Cha Mende . Featuring Mwanaa of Vijana Barubaru and produced by renowned music producer Cedo, this track has captured the hearts of fans nationwide.
In this interview, the Pombe hit maker tracks his music journey from being raised in Mathare slums, and reflects on the financial struggles that forced him to leave Daystar University. He also talks about how working alongside artists like Arrow Bwoy shaped his vision.
1. What inspires your dress code as an artist?
I love being authentic in everything that I do. Most of the time, my manager and I sit down, brainstorm ideas, and create designs that represent who I am. We even have our tailor who brings these ideas to life and gives each outfit a clean, polished look. As for the accessories, I keep it simple yet bold with some bling to complete the vibe. Today, for example, I'm rocking this unique cowboy belt.
2. You have become one of the most sought-after young artists in Kenya. Was there a defining moment when things just clicked for you?
Absolutely. That moment came with my song Pombe. I had released other songs, but they did not make as much impact. Actually, after releasing the song, there were about four weeks when we had just 3,000 views. My manager and I were monitoring the numbers and we said, this is it. Let us go to the studio and try something else.
Then one day, out of nowhere, we woke up to phone calls from friends telling us that the song was trending on social media, especially on TikTok. I did not have a TikTok account but people were using my song in thousands of videos, so I opened an account and found the song had over 60,000 videos at that time! That is when I knew things were going to be different.
Ian Oure popularly known as Iyanii poses for a picture on the streets after the interview on October 25, 2024.
Photo credit: Francis Nderitu | Nation
3. Your family has been a big part of your journey. Can you share a bit about their influence?
I grew up with both parents and while we did not have much, they nurtured me well and taught me the importance of hard work. My brother, who used to sing too, is now my manager. He gives me creative input and helps me stay focused. I am grateful for that support. I had been singing for a decade before people came to know me. I don't mean I am old, I just started singing when I was young, around age seven.
I was inspired by my brother and my dad who used to listen to music together with my mum. My grandfather played the guitar. By the time I was seven years old, I had decided that music was for me, and I started honing my skills.
Ian Oure popularly known as Iyanii poses for a picture on the streets after the interview on October 25, 2024.
Photo credit: Francis Nderitu | Nation
4. What were some of the challenges you faced growing up in Mathare?
I had an amazing experience as a child. My neighbourhood showed me that I needed to work hard to get a better life. I knew that music was the only thing that could get me out of the slum so I used my music as a tool to uplift myself. I am so glad with the strides I have made so far. Music has changed my life in a major way. I have a whole team behind me. For us, it is a full-time job.
One of the challenges growing up in the slums is peer pressure. In Eastlands, so many young people end up in crime. You look at some of your friends who are living very good lives and you just admire them, but what you don't know is that some of them are criminals. If you are not careful, you might end up getting into crime while chasing that lifestyle. Living in Eastlands was also a blessing because you get to see the dark side of life, and that gives you the opportunity to reflect and decide what you really want in life.
Growing up, I saw so many artists coming from that area, including the legendary Mighty King Kong. I saw Ekko Dyda come up, I saw Willy Paul, Bahati and even Mr Seed. All these artistes with similar backgrounds kept me motivated and focused on building my craft.
Ian Oure popularly known as Iyanii poses for a picture on the streets after the interview on October 25, 2024.
Photo credit: Francis Nderitu | Nation
5. How did dropping out of Daystar and facing financial challenges shape your life?
I got a B+ in my final secondary school exams and I was enrolled in Daystar University for a journalism course but after a year, I dropped out of school. My dad was not in a position to pay for my education because there was so much going on in the family. Luckily, I did not take it negatively when he came and told me that I could no longer continue with school.
I told myself that since I had talent, I could focus on music. After dropping out, I was privileged to get a scholarship at Sauti Academy, a music school, so I went for auditions. I was accepted but I still could not pay the fee. I approached the CEO of the school and I told her my story. She allowed me to be in school but requested me to support the institution through an outreach program as compensation.
Sometimes, we would go out to the streets to educate street children, or to prisons to teach inmates about music. I got to learn a lot and that's how I got my skills. I studied music for one and a half years until I graduated. I would love to go back to school and pursue something related to music.
Working with Arrow Bwoy and his record label was a great experience. We had a strong connection and shared vision, which made the journey smooth. When I felt ready, we had an open talk, and he supported my decision to go solo. Even now we are still close, and I know I can call on him for advice any time. It is rare in this industry to find someone who genuinely cares and understands your dreams.
