For a while now, producers have been confined to working behind the scenes with little recognition. In the past, fans and listeners only saw the final product without understanding the depth of work that went into it. But now, with producers stepping into the spotlight, there’s a growing appreciation for the craft and the artistic process behind the music.
We discuss the self-sustaining nature of many Kenyan artists. From scheduling releases to starting out as a rapper, Lukorito has navigated various aspects of the industry. His journey into production began organically, doing covers, designing his own remix cover art around the COVID era, and later deep-diving into music production. He recalls how Maya Amolo played a key role in his transition, noting that once he figured out Photoshop, it changed his mindset about making beats. “I challenged myself to design the cover art for my single, then asked friends for feedback,” he shares.
He strongly believes that artists should take an interest in other creative forms. Understanding production, for instance, allows an artist to communicate their vision better, streamlining the entire process. “If you know a little about production, it makes it easier to make requests and get things done exactly how you envision them.”
Can you tell me about your journey into production and what sparked your interest?
I grew up in an artistic environment; my dad was a literature critic and professor. I went to university for chemical engineering, and after graduating, I came back home for a year. I started hanging out with Luther, who knew I used to write prose. He introduced me to the music world, pushed me to record, and encouraged me to explore production.
I released my first album in April 2020, and the feedback was great; it was a bit edgy but well-received. Around that time, COVID happened, and I started experimenting more with production, releasing remixes on SoundCloud. While doing my master’s in environmental engineering, I found myself deeply immersed in music. I kept producing, learning sound engineering, and refining my craft.
Through Luther, I met Maya Amolo, and we started hanging out. I really wanted to produce for her, so I kept making “Maya Amolo type beats” until one day, I created “Foundry” for her Asali project. She then asked me to mix the entire project, and I threw myself into it, seeking advice where needed. The result turned out great.
How would you describe your signature sound, and what sets you apart?
A defining feature of my production is sampling, whether it’s drums, percussion, or melodies. I love chopping up sounds and reinterpreting them in new ways. My sound is also heavily influenced by Nairobi’s energy, the loud bass-heavy music, the fast-paced city life. It all seeps into my work subconsciously.
What makes an artist unique is their taste and intuition, which are shaped by their environment, experiences, and influences. For me, my background in engineering also plays a role in how I construct sounds. It makes my approach to music different from someone who studied production traditionally.
Your work is gaining recognition. How does it feel knowing your sound is reaching more people?
It feels amazing. When you’re in the studio, surrounded by demos, you often second-guess what’s good or what will resonate with listeners. So seeing people connect with my work is both an encouragement and a push to keep going.
At the same time, it’s daunting. I wear many hats: production, sound engineering, performing, and navigating all of that can be overwhelming. But it’s also exciting.
If you could work on a dream project, who would be on it?
If I had an unlimited budget, I’d love to work with Duckchild. They taught me how to produce, so a project with them would be a full circle. Knxwledge,One of my favorite producers. The Alchemist – His work is legendary. Also, Earl Sweatshirt is my favorite rapper. Anderson.Paak. I would love to co-produce something with Anderson Paak.
On a local level, I’d definitely want Sema Sole from Rwanda in the mix. The project would be global, blending live performances with production elements.
Any upcoming personal projects?
I have an album that I produced, but most of my time has been spent working on various projects. This year, I want to compile an R&B demo project with songs I’ve worked on over the years, maybe a 10-track release.
Other than that, I’m focused on wrapping up projects from last year and finally getting them out into the world.
As Lukorito continues to push boundaries and expand Nairobi’s music scene, one thing is clear. This is just the beginning. More than an artist, he is a cultural ambassador, representing the sound, soul, and spirit of East Africa on a global scale. With every beat, bar, and performance, he cements his place as not just a rising star but an exceptional export, a voice the world can’t afford to ignore.