He is one of Nairobi's coolest cats and a notable figure in the urban rap space. Isaac Mwendwa alias Eyez Kitaka is no stranger to the Kenyan HipHop scene, as he began pursuing the genre in his teenage years, performing at school, talent shows and other public settings.
By 15, he had opened for Camp Mulla and performed with Point Blank Evumbi at Kenya Music Week and appeared on KTN's 99 Degrees. A lyricist synonymous with blending vulnerability into his art, Eyez offers a grounded yet elevated voice, chronicling the everyday or reflecting on personal growth. He would later relocate to the UK for university, upon which he put music in the back burner. His return to Kenya saw him approach music with a fresh, broader perspective and more refined approach.
Fresh on the heels of his latest masterpiece dubbed "Simmer Down," The Sauce caught up with the rapper for a candid look into what he has hitherto going on.
1. Tell us about the new record. What was the inspo behind it?
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Eyez: While working on my debut EP "The[rap]y", we were getting close to the end of the recording process and I'd hit a lot of the marks I wanted to hit as far as self expression went. All except a song where I was feeling myself and maybe a little more aggressive. I wanted to create something that spoke to that while still held true to the authentic and introspective artist I strive to be.
So I wrote the first verse with reflection in mind, and we wrote the hook acknowledging the greatness that exists within me and all of us as a result of that reflection. In all honesty, we also just wanted to make something to mob to.
2. What's your brief description of yourself as an artist?
I'm a Nairobi-born MC whose artistry blends vulnerability and sharp lyricism. Listeners can always expect moody beats, intricate wordplay, immersive storytelling and abstract raps.
3. What was the creative process behind the new visuals?
When we started working on the concept for the Simmer Down video, The Raww filmmaker asked if there were any pieces of inspiration we already had in mind.
Off rip, Ceezy wanted to recreate the "Paid in Full" dinner scene, The Raww Filmmaker wanted to recreate "The Joker" shot, and I wanted performance shots reminiscent of "Mercy" by G.O.O.D Music & "Period Blood" by Roc Marciano.
(There's a shot for shot comparison of these ideas and the inspiration on my IG.)
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Our director took all these elements, created a dope treatment for it, and we did it.
4. What do you expect fans to take away from the new release?
For those that knew me in my earlier days making music, the takeaway is that I'm back, sharper, more polished and laser focused. For those joining us now, that we're here, this is what we do and if these are your vibes, rock with us, we've got a lot more to give.
5. What is next after this new project?
Well, for now, we'll keep dropping new songs, new verses, new visuals so we can build community. Hip hop in Kenya definitely needs more community.
Stream the new release HERE
