Rocky Dawuni launches New Music Video “Nairobi” on OkayAfrica

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Cumbancha recording artist Rocky Dawuni releases his new music video for the song “Nairobi ” today in partnership with OkayAfrica.com. Follow this link to view the video. The song “Nairobi” appears on Dawuni’s acclaimed 2015 album Branches of the Same Tree. Filmed in Kenya’s capitol city, the video is an ode to this “beautiful city in the sun” and a plea for peace and celebration of shared destiny. The video captures a picturesque portrait of iconic and historic monuments of Nairobi as it explores the everyday life of the city. Dawuni serves as a traveling minstrel, journeying across neighborhoods, bearing a message of goodwill.

Kenyans disputed elections of 2007 plunged the country into a state of political and ethnic violence making headlines all around the world. Rocky Dawuni resolved to write a song of healing for his fellow African country. The opportunity came when several years later he visited the ignition point of the unrest in Kibera in 2012, the sprawling ghetto of Nairobi.

The “Nairobi” video features cameo appearances by a who’s-who of Kenyan top socialites and celebrities including popular Kenyan hip hop artist, Juliani; Dr. Abbas Gullet, the Secretary General of the Kenyan Red Cross; Kenyan publicity maverick Gina Din Kariuki; Kenyan tycoon and philanthropist Chris Kirubi; and Kenyan dub poet and musician Oneko Arika who is also featured on the song. The track was co-produced with Danish music producer Pharfar.

The “Nairobi” video was produced by GoodMakers Films headed up by Tilo Ponder on location in Kenya. Ethiopian filmmaker Babbi directed the video, alongside director & editor, Cris Blyth. GoodMakers work to unlock the potential that exists in charities, NGO1s & marginalized communities through documentaries, music videos and youth-lead development.

International music star and humanitarian activist Rocky Dawuni straddles the musical boundaries between Africa, the Caribbean and the U.S. to create an appealing “Afro-Roots” sound that unites generations and cultures. Filled with uplifting and irresistible songs, Rocky’s sixth album, Branches of the Same Tree, blends inspirations from his diverse experiences while expanding on his identity as an artist, a proud son of Africa and as a true world citizen.

Inspired by the soulful beats of Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, the positive messages and deep grooves of Bob Marley and the infectious, sing-along anthems of Michael Franti, K’naan and Matisyahu, Rocky Dawuni’s songs blend elements of reggae, Afrobeat and global pop into an enticing new sound. The songs on Branches of the Same Tree also reflect influences of New Orleans funk, Brazilian samba, even the lilting sounds of Hawaiian ukulele, seamlessly integrated into a unique and approachable style. The album features appearances by an all-star lineup of guest musicians, including veterans from Michael Franti and Spearhead, Steel Pulse, Ben Harper and The Innocent Criminals and Ziggy Marley. Already a superstar in West Africa with a devoted international fan base, Branches of the Same Tree brings Rocky’s music to even wider audiences around the world.

 Born in Ghana and based in Los Angeles, Rocky is a galvanizing performer whose infectious grooves and dance-inducing anthems have consistently excited fans. Blessed with easy-going charisma, Rocky has performed and collaborated with Stevie Wonder, Peter Gabriel, Bono, Jason Mraz, Janelle Monae and John Legend, among many others. Named one of Africa’s Top 10 global stars by CNN, he’s showcased his talent around the world at major festivals and prestigious venues such as The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and The Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.

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