Swabri Mohammed, known professionally as Redsan, is among the many reggae/ ragga and dancehall artists in Africa and Kenya conveying their message with irresistible tunes alongside heart warming taglines which tend to increase his count of fans across the globe.
Early Life and Musical Genesis
Swabri was born on 1 August, 1981 and raised in the informal housing sector of Majengo in Nairobi in Kenya. Mohammed originates from Coast and belongs to the Mijikenda tribe of Duruma.
His music career culminated after he won the challenge Star Search hosted at Carnivore discothéque in Nairobi in 1998.
Musical Career
He released numerous songs under Ogopa Deejays including intriguing albums. His songs “Julie” and “Manipa Hara” surged him to the top of Kenya’s music charts for about fortnights. His songs were in the air both in Africa and Europe.
He decided to pursue a solo career which led to the release of his second album, Red in 2004 under the Southwest Records which included his hit song “Bageya” which involved Mohammed collaborating with Jose Chameleone, a Ugandan artist. After the release of his third album he formed record label which he owns known as Dutty Records. He then hired expertise to be incharge of the record management.
Julie, which was a remix of an old classical love song, “Unirudee Wami Wee” which means, “Please Have Mercy On Me“, which was written both in Swahili and English, is one of the songs he released which garnered him popular acclaim. The song traces a desire to a single partner in a time of sexual promiscuity due to the strong feeling of staying faithful to the one he wishes to marry, named Julie.
Discography
Albums
- Seasons of the San in 2002
- Red in 2004
- Pioneer in 2006
- Versatility in 2009
- The Baddest in 2018
Singles
- Julie
- Chicken
- Malaika
- Step On It
- Apakatwe
- Mikono Juu
Personal Life
Mohammed is married to Viverz Mohammed and they have been bonded legally since 2012.
Awards and Recognition
Not only has he gained recognition and prominence in his motherland, Kenya but also the neighbouring African countries including Europe, United States and the Middle East.
- Best Male Artist during the 2005 Chaguo La Tenniez Awards
- Best Reggae/ Ragga during the 2095 Kisima Music Awards
He is a prominent figure in Kenya, as a member of an organization seeking to eradicate poverty while creating the awareness of HIV/AIDS.
written by Ruth Ama Onumah
