Jazz Crazy Records

An Archive of Early Jazz on 78 RPM

“Usiamini Rafiki” – Isaya Mwinamo (~1962) Kenyan Guitar

Isaya Mwinamo was a Kenyan guitarist and music producer born in Shinlayu township in Kakamega county in 1932. He moved to Nairobi in the 1950s and became a part of the music scene there. This is an early recording on the Capitol Music Store (CMS) label that prominently features his guitar sound

Isaya later joined the Polydor label to record and produce many of Kenya’s top bands. He retired from music in 1985 and lived in his hometown until he passed away in 2005.

Recording date is not known, however, on CMS 118, Isaya makes reference to a Kenyan political party started in 1960 and dissolving in 1964, so I’ve split the difference.

The title loosely translates to: “Don’t believe it, friend”.

Released as CMS 114 (mx. MKS.1027)

Sources:
Post by Rudent Obande
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=762876849172591&id=100063508488919&set=a.218720593588222

Moving Pictures Kenya: Isaya Mwinamo – Legendary Kenyan Sound Engineer Who Recorded Africa’s Biggest Hits
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Vw-GpkE-bU

Kentanza Vinyl
https://kentanzavinyl.com/Kentanzavinyl/CMS.html

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