People

Julius ‘Juliani’ Owino

Kenya

Biography

Juliani was born and raised in the low-income Dandora neighbourhood of Nairobi. He is a popular hip-hop musician known for his socially conscious lyrics, with themes that mainly focus on social, spiritual and political emancipation and the dream of a united Kenyan nation. A multiyear winner of Kenya’s Groove awards, one of his favourite themes is encouraging young Kenyans to live up to their potential, often citing his own story, growing up poor and now earning a decent living as a recording artist.

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“Music is powerful. Music and art break barriers. If it’s used deliberately and if it’s used rightfully, if its supported, half our problems will be sorted because it will inspire.”

Julius ‘Juliani’ Owino