By Rebecca Gichana
Mejja Meme Hadhija is one of the hottest Kenyan rappers today. Popularly known for his hit song Landlord, he started singing when he was in primary school. He once belonged to a group called Ghetto Clan with his brother called Wambugu.
His single, Jana kuliendaje was a major hit in 2008 and won him Chaguo la Teeniez award. His advice to you: Never dwell on the past but look forward for bigger things while working hard. Always put God first in everything you do and when you become successful always remember to thank Him.
He answered questions from pupils of Mukuru primary in South B.
William Thuku, 12 years, standard eight. How do you find music? Is it a good career?
Mejja: Music has always been my passion and yes it’s a good career and an interesting one. With music I pay my bills that include my rent and that of my family back in Nyeri. I thank God for my career because I’m able to save for the future, which was but a dream. Through music I have dealt with people who I didn’t even think I would meet and also have travelled a lot. I thank my fans too.
Brian Okerosi, Ten years, standard five. Is it true that some musicians copy what others have done? Have you ever encountered such a situation and how did you deal with it?
Mejja: I have heard of this but I can’t confirm since it has never happened to me or someone I know. Artistes should be creative and come up with their own stuff.
Edward Wanjala, Ten years, standard five. In any career people encounter challenges, which are your challenges?
Mejja: The biggest challenge I face is coming up with a new song that meets expectations of my fans. A song that beats previous songs I have written and produced.
Bidan Mui, 11 years, standard five. How did you discover that you could sing? What inspired you to compose the song Landlord?
Mejja: As a child I used to hang out with my brother and his friends who used to perform in an all rappers, group Ghetto Clan and that’s how my passion for music grew. That was in class seven and since then my life has been a musical one. Landlord was inspired by my experience back in majengo, Nyeri where we lived.
