By Swaleh
Embracing Culture Over English
Rapper Onyango ‘Octopizzo’ Ohanga has been making waves in the music industry for years, but it’s not his recent chart-toppers that have kept him in the spotlight. Instead, it’s his steadfast decision to keep his music predominantly in Swahili and Sheng that has proven to be his most significant asset. Despite a lull in major hits, Octopizzo continues to thrive, attributing his success to his unwavering commitment to cultural representation and identity.
Embracing Authenticity
Octopizzo’s approach to music is deeply rooted in his cultural heritage. “The reason I don’t record my albums in English is because of my cultural representation and identity as an African,” he explains. For him, music is not just about creating hits but about exporting and celebrating his culture. “If you are from Africa and go to New York and you rap in English, people will ask you, ‘Where are you from? What do you represent?’”
By choosing to perform in Sheng and Luo, Octopizzo has carved out a unique space in the global music scene. This authenticity has not only set him apart from other artists but also attracted high-profile partnerships and collaborations, from tech giants to luxury brands.
High-Profile Collaborations
In recent years, Octopizzo has aligned himself with several top-tier brands. His long-standing partnership with Hennessy is one notable example. For the past three years, he has been a central figure in Hennessy’s campaigns, including the Hennessy Cypher Africa. His seventh album, Lamu Nights, released in February 2023, was also sponsored by the prestigious brand.
Octopizzo’s collaborations extend beyond borders. He has worked with European entities such as the European Union, engaging Kenyan youth in civic knowledge through educational and entertainment projects. These partnerships underscore how Octopizzo’s cultural representation resonates on an international scale, fostering valuable connections and opportunities.
A Focused Career
Contrary to popular belief, Octopizzo’s music career is far from a side hustle. “Music has never been a side hustle for me,” he asserts. “All I do is music, and I do music 100 percent, only I do my music differently.” His approach is less about the traditional hustle of attending numerous events and more about curating and packaging his content strategically. “I no longer depend on shows to make money,” he reveals, highlighting his shift towards more sustainable and lucrative avenues.
A recent milestone in Octopizzo’s career is the launch of his eighth studio album, Kich Ka Liech—loosely translated as “Bees Killed an Elephant.” The album’s listening party took place at the European Union residence in Nairobi, with an impressive guest list that included ambassadors from Germany
