Nyamari Ongegu, better known by his stage name Nyashinski, was born on April 8, 1984. A Nairobi School alumnus, Nyashinski initially went by the name Inyatta Nyamari Ongegu. However, on April 10, 2019, he officially dropped “Inyatta” and now uses Nyamari Ongegu as his full name, as announced in a gazette notice.
Nyashinski’s journey took him from Kenya to Delaware, US, in 2006, where he worked as a truck driver for a decade. He returned to Kenya in 2016 to revive his music career, and since then, he has been making waves in the industry.
In 2019, Nyashinski married his longtime girlfriend, designer Zia Jepkemei Bett, and the couple welcomed their first child in 2020.
His musical career began as a member of the pioneering group Kleptomaniax while still in high school. Nyashinski, alongside Roba (Robert Manyasa) and Collo (Collins Majale), formed the influential trio in 1999. Their debut track “Freak It” released in 2002 under Ogopa DJs, was followed by hits like “Maniax Anthem” and “Haree.” Their songs “Tuendelee” and “Swing,” released in 2004, cemented their place in the music scene, earning them numerous awards and nominations. The group went on a hiatus in 2009 to focus on solo projects.
After a 10-year break, Nyashinski made a triumphant return to music in 2016 with the hit single “Now You Know,” featuring Athman. His 2017 song “Malaika” won the Mdundo Award for Most Downloaded Male Single.
Nyashinski’s accolades include:
- 2016: Pulse Music Video Award for “Now You Know”
- 2022: Best Legendary Artiste
He was also nominated for:
- Best African Act at the MTV Africa Music Awards in 2017 and 2018
- Best Male Artist in Eastern Africa at the All Africa Music Awards in 2022
Notable Studio Albums:
- 2016: Now You Know, Mungu Pekee
- 2017: Malaika, Hayawani
From high school prodigy to a celebrated solo artist, Nyashinski’s journey is a testament to his talent and perseverance. 🌟
