By Diana Jura
Nothing raises the bar for a show like good music and Dan Aceda hit all the right notes with “Safari”, the Sumu la Penzi sound track. The song has a nice slow African rhythm laced with poetic Swahili lyrics and the icing on the cake, has to be Aceda’s to die for silky voice, (Sauti ya kutoa msichana pangoni). “Safari” is fun, hip and relevant, delivering a strong message on love and dating in contemporary Africa, true to the general theme of Sumu la Penzi series. This song was specially written and produced for Sumu la Penzi and it fits like a glove.
Dan Aceda “The crown prince of Benga” is a Kenyan architect, musician, and actor based in Nairobi. He has two Kisima awards to his name garnered in 2008 for Best Male Afro Fusion artiste as well as Songwriter of the year (Yes! That is how we roll). He was also nominated for the 2011 Kisima Awards in the Best Afro Fusion category. In 2011 he became the first Kenyan musician to perform at the Lake of Stars Festival in Malawi. The “Benga” musician performs in Nairobi regularly and has created a quarterly event dubbed The Affair.
In Aceda’s words “Safari” is a celebration of love and life wrapped in sweet melodies and soulful delivery. It’s a snapshot of everyday romance in 21st century Africa and present-day Nairobi. “Safari” is the embodiment of our desire to find true love and companionship beyond the hassle of traditional boundaries. It’s the space to tell our stories of love and friendship.
Catch Sumu La Penzi on AfricaMagic Swahili, 8pm every Mondays & Tuesdays.