Joseph Kamaru

Who is Joseph Kamaru?

Joseph Kamaru is a benga musician from central Kenya. He is a leading Kikuyu musician, who has sold about half a million records.

Kamaru is from Kangema, Muranga District. In 1957 he moved to Nairobi where he got a cleaning job. He started pursuing music in 1965.

Kamaru made his first breakthrough in 1967 with Celina. The height of his musical career was between 1975-1985. In the late 80's he was the first Kenyan artist to play at the Carnivore Restaurant, then only hosting foreign artists. According to Martin Dunford, the owner of the restaurant, Kamaru's vibrant performance opened doors for other Kenyan artist to perform at the venue.

Many of his songs were political, either praising or criticising the government. Initially he had a good relationships with president Jomo Kenyatta, but after writing a song condemning the murder of Josiah Mwangi Kariuki in 1975 Kamaru fell out with him. After Kenyatta died, the next president Daniel arap Moi was close to the artist. In 1980 Kamaru toured Japan as a part of President Moi's entourage. After the visit he composed Safari ya Japan praising the president.