Blinky Bill

Born and raised in Nairobi's Eastleigh neighborhood, Blinky Bill, whose real name is Bill Sellanga, was immersed in a rich musical environment from a young age. His mother, a guitarist, and his father, a church choir singer, exposed him to diverse genres, including gospel, lingala, jazz, and R&B. This eclectic upbringing laid the foundation for his multifaceted musical style. During his teenage years, Blinky taught himself to play the guitar, inspired by his mother's passion for the instrument. His formal education at Kenyatta University, where he majored in Sports Science, coincided with his deepening involvement in music. It was here that he met like-minded individuals, leading to the formation of the art and music collective Just A Band, which would become a seminal force in Kenya's alternative music scene.

In 2008, Blinky Bill co-founded Just A Band alongside Daniel Muli and Jim Chuchu. The collective's debut album, 'Scratch to Reveal', released the same year, showcased a blend of funk, jazz, hip-hop, and electronic music, challenging conventional Kenyan music norms. Their 2010 single 'Ha-He' gained international attention, often cited as Kenya's first viral music video. The success of 'Ha-He' propelled Just A Band into the global spotlight, leading to performances at renowned festivals and events. The group's innovative approach and genre-defying sound earned them a dedicated following and critical acclaim, solidifying their status as pioneers in the Kenyan music industry.

After Just A Band went on hiatus in 2016, Blinky Bill embarked on a solo career, releasing the EP 'We Cut Keys While You Wait' the same year. His first solo studio album, 'Everyone's Just Winging It And Other Fly Tales', followed in 2018, featuring collaborations with artists like Sampa the Great, Petite Noir, and Nneka. The album received critical acclaim for its experimental sound and introspective lyrics. Blinky's collaborative spirit extended to working with international artists such as Goldlink, Childish Gambino, and Chance The Rapper, further expanding his musical horizons and influence. His performances at global events like SummerStage NYC and TED 22 in Vancouver showcased his dynamic stage presence and ability to connect with diverse audiences.

Blinky Bill's music is characterized by a fusion of futuristic African beats with elements of funk, hip-hop, pop, electronica, and jazz. His innovative approach challenges traditional genre boundaries, creating a unique sound that resonates with a global audience. As a TED Fellow and a member of the Yerba Buena Center of the Arts' 2018 YBCA 100 list, Blinky has been recognized for his contributions to shifting cultural narratives and creating change through music. His commitment to social consciousness is evident in his lyrics and public engagements, where he advocates for creative freedom and the power of music to effect social change.

Blinky Bill's discography reflects his evolution as an artist and his willingness to experiment with different sounds and themes. His solo projects include the EP 'We Cut Keys While You Wait' (2016) and the albums 'Everyone's Just Winging It And Other Fly Tales' (2018) and 'We Cut Keys 2' (2024). Each release showcases his growth and the depth of his musical exploration. The single 'Dracula', released in 2023, exemplifies his commitment to creating thought-provoking music with a powerful message of empowerment and social consciousness. The accompanying music video, directed by CJ Pixels, further highlights his artistic vision and dedication to pushing creative boundaries.

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