Born in Nairobi as Jason Dunford, Samaki Mkuu’s love of music came from exploring his parents´ and older brother’s music collection and learning to sing the lyrics to songs by artists from Dire Straits to Lucky Dube, Everlast to Eric Wainsina. His love of sports drove him to pursue a swimming career that saw him rise to a final in the 100m butterfly at the 2008 Olympics and he was honored with carrying the flag of his native Kenya during the opening ceremony of the 2012 games. Upon retiring from sport a chance meeting with Romantico led him to record his first track on their track Mbaya, released in 2018. The song became an instant hit, leading to invites to perform on 10over10 and at various live venues and festivals. His second track was a collaboration with legendary rapper Jua Cali on the song Baila Baila, which was a second hit, leading to a nomination for collabo of the year at the 2019 NMAs. Since his debut, Samaki Mkuu has continued to showcase his vocal versatility and lyrical legitimacy releasing 5 albums, and collaborating with a diversity of artists including Antonio Carmona of Ketama, Jabali Afrika, Sanaipei Tande, Roberto, Nazizi of Necessary Noize and Dufla - so follow along to stay tuned!