Hailing from Nairobi, Ishmael Kitinya, known as Kijana ish has dropped his latest album ‘Not Accepted‘ – a deeply personal album and a vibrant celebration of Kenyan identity and culture. Born from a reflection on his roots and a desire to honor the rich musical heritage of Kenya, the album blends traditional sounds like benga, chakacha, and mugithi with contemporary global influences including gengetone and Afrobeat. Ishmael’s aim is clear: to create a unifying musical experience that can be appreciated from Kisumu to Mombasa and beyond.

Not Accepted is the result of years of internal dialogue and real-world inspiration. Growing up caught between the modern music of his youth and the traditional rhythms of his homeland, Ishmael found a way to bridge those worlds. The album brings storytelling, resilience, and pride into every beat, channeling the spirit of the everyday Kenyans he’s met—from bustling markets to matatu stages—into a collection that’s both authentic and universally relatable. Singing in Swahili, Sheng, Kikuyu, and English, and incorporating traditional instruments like the nyatiti alongside Nairobi’s urban soundscape, Ishmael delivers a culturally enriched performance. The album also reflects his personal journey through heartbreak, growth, and self-discovery, making it as intimate as it is expansive.

Kijana ish’s journey started early—from church choirs and street cyphers in Kenya to studio sessions and collaborations across continents. His debut Kenyan album, arriving in 2025, is both a love letter and a call to unity—a project that proudly carries forward the legacy of his homeland while pushing creative boundaries.