Hyperlocal Spotlight: Pioneering Kenya’s Benga Music - Collela Mazee
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Collela Mazee (born Richard Owino, 1954–2000) remains one of the most influential figures in Kenyan music history and a true pioneer of Benga music. Widely known as “Dr. Collela Mazee,” he played a central role in shaping and popularizing the Benga sound across East Africa during the 1970s and 1980s. His guitar-driven rhythms, socially conscious lyrics, and dynamic stage presence helped define a genre that continues to influence generations of artists. For anyone exploring the roots of Kenyan Benga music, Collela Mazee stands as a foundational icon.
Collela Mazee’s musical journey began after attending Ngere High School, which he left early to pursue his passion for music. In 1972, he joined the Victoria Jazz Band under the leadership of Achieng' Nelly. A year later, in 1973, he split from Nelly and assumed leadership, transforming the group’s direction and elevating its national profile. Under his guidance, the band later known as Victoria Kings Jazz Band became a powerhouse in Kenya’s live music scene. His determination to maintain creative independence eventually led him to establish his own label, Oula Records, a bold move that secured artistic control over his productions.
Among Collela Mazee’s top tracks are the classic hits “Jack-Jack” (1974), “Nyaduse” (1976), and the timeless anthem “Apidi Nyar John.” These songs not only dominated local airwaves but also cemented his status as a Benga legend. His intricate guitar melodies, storytelling lyricism, and infectious rhythms resonated with audiences across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Collela Mazee’s influence on East African music remains profound decades after his passing. He died on March 7, 2000, in Nairobi due to cardio-pulmonary arrest, but his legacy lives on through his recordings and a mausoleum in Uriri honoring his contribution to Kenyan culture. Today, he is celebrated not just as a musician but as a visionary who elevated Benga music to regional prominence, Collela Mazee’s work stands as a timeless testament to Kenya’s rich musical heritage.
