Kenyan-British artist mau from nowhere has been on a thrilling international journey in the music world, blending diverse influences and going from strength to strength with his genre-bending sound. Raised between Nairobi, the UK and the Netherlands, his music reflects this multicultural background, drawing inspiration from a wide array of artists, including Outkast and Bloc Party.
mau from nowhere brings together elements of hip-hop, R&B and electronic music to create a sound that’s fiercely catchy and infectiously rhythmic. From his early singles and four-track EP to his critically acclaimed debut album The Universe is Holding You, mau from nowhere’s music has always been an exploration of the unconventional.
His 14-track record put him on the map of must watch artists via melodic raps with reflective lyrics, offering listeners a serene, airy sound. Recognized as Apple Music’s East African Up Next artist in May last year, mau from nowhere’s rise has been marked by both critical and popular acclaim. Collaboration has also been a key part of mau from nowhere’s story as an artist. His partnerships span genres and continents, from working with fellow East African artists like Maya Amolo and MAUIMØON to more experimental collaborations with Divorce Court, Hook and Swami Sound.
In his latest project, Soft Steps, mau from nowhere continues his exploration of genre-blending and emotional songwriting. The seven-track EP marks a new chapter for the artist, as he moves from rap-centric stylings to a more intricate form of melodic storytelling. This shift in style allows him to further explore themes of love, life and self-discovery, all while maintaining the experimental edge that’s previously won over fans.
Lifted from the EP is the focus track “Fly,” which sees the artist linking up with hihi to deliver a superb slice of his grooving alternative pop sound. With the patter of slick percussive shots, bouncy bass lines and expressive vocal performance that bends from elegant melodic stretches to laid back rapped flows, “Fly” serves up a stunning slice of mau from nowhere’s highly original and thoroughly enjoyable sound.
More than a year after the release of his debut album, mau from nowhere is proving that his creative journey has an astonishing amount to offer. With Soft Steps, his ability to apply his sonic vision in exciting new ways makes him one of the most compelling and innovative artists emerging on the global music scene today and we can’t wait to see what he’s got in store next.
Listen to Fly (feat. hihi) below
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