The Kenyan Way: Jungle culture’s groundbreaking drum and bass event set to make Waves

 Headlined by UK-based Kenyan artist Degs, this event is already creating a buzz with pre-sale tickets sold out. In this interview, the event organizers, Balter Sensei, Nduta, and Degs, share insights into the upcoming show and its significance for the local music scene.

Balter Sensei and Nduta, the founders of Jungle Culture, reflect on how they didn’t anticipate the rapid growth of their platform. “When we started Jungle Culture Kenya, we had no idea where it would go!” they admit.

The duo was motivated by a lack of access to the drum and bass genre in Kenya, as local promoters and clubs were hesitant to support it. Their solution was simple—create their own platform. Today, they stand at the forefront of a unique movement, offering a home to a genre that had been largely ignored in the region.

Degs, who is headlining The Kenyan Way for the second time this year, expressed his pride in performing for a Kenyan audience. “Kenya is a part of my heritage,” Degs says, and performing in Nairobi feels special for him.

He highlights the energy and spirit of the Kenyan people, noting that their unique family-like connection sets them apart from audiences elsewhere. For Degs, drum and bass in Nairobi carries a special energy that he’s excited to tap into once again.

With pre-sale tickets selling out quickly, Balter Sensei and Nduta were pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming response. 

They credit this success to the affordable pricing, which appealed to Kenyan fans. The event promises an exciting blend of locally produced tracks and mashups with popular Kenyan tunes.

Newcomers can expect heavy bass lines, fast-paced beats, and a Kenyan twist with a 100% local DJ lineup. “Come expecting something new, something fresh, something energetic,” they tease.

Degs, known for blending UK drum and bass with influences from hip-hop, R&B, soul, and African music, is confident that his music will resonate with the Kenyan audience.

“I don’t feel I need to adapt my performance to the Kenyan audience,” he says, explaining that the genre’s variety is what makes it so special. 

For this event, Degs is particularly excited to collaborate with Nairobi-based songstress Kare, bringing a local flavor to his set.

As the team prepares for The Kenyan Way, they are hopeful that this event will be a major step toward cementing drum and bass in Kenya’s musical landscape. “We’re definitely seeing the genre being imprinted in our society’s musical fabric,” say Balter and Nduta. Their goal is to create an inclusive space for all and foster a future where artists can earn a living from drum and bass in the region.

Echoing the sentiments of the event organizers, Degs sees The Kenyan Way as a passion project. He is eager to see Kenyan artists bring their fresh, innovative approach to drum and bass on a global stage. “The potential is endless,” he says.

Degs hopes this movement will grow and provide opportunities for local artists to thrive in the genre, making a real impact both regionally and internationally.

With Degs landing in Kenya today (Tuesday, September 17), the promotional run for The Kenyan Way is set to enter a new gear as fans anticipate the upcoming show slated to be held at The Mall Rooftop, Westlands.

Fans can expect a whirlwind of events and excitement leading up to the main event on September 21st. The organizers are eager to connect with the local fanbase and introduce more people to the world of drum and bass.

With a stellar lineup, unique local collaborations, and an immersive jungle experience, The Kenyan Way promises to be a game-changer for the Kenyan music scene. 

Both seasoned drum and bass fans and newcomers will find something to love. As Degs and the Jungle Culture team prepare to take Nairobi by storm, the event is poised to elevate drum and bass in East Africa to new heights.

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