Discography of THE "WANYIKA" GROUPS


The "Wanyika" groups - Simba Wanyika, Les Wanyika, Super Wanyika, their progenitors Jamhuri Jazz and Arusha Jazz, and their various offshoots - occupy a prominent place in the history of East African music in the last decades of the Twentieth Century.?

The Wanyikas were all Kenya-based, although their central leaders - the Kinyonga brothers, Omar Shabani, John Ngereza and Issa Juma - all hailed from Tanzania and cut their musical teeth in the fertile Tanzanian music scene of the 1960s and '70s.

This discography first went online July 10, 2004. Most of the information in the original posting was supplied by Doug Paterson, whose East African Music Page is an essential source of information about music from Kenya and Tanzania. I have since been in touch with Peter Toll of the Netherlands, who sponsored Simba Wanyika's various tours in the late '80s and early '90s.? Peter authored two excellent articles about the Wanyikas, "The Wanyika Weave" (Folk Roots, August 1991) and "Wanyika Memories" (The Beat, Vol. 12, No. 4, 1993), as well as produced the 1992 Simba Wanyika CD Pepea. Peter was able to supply a wealth of information on recordings that weren't included in the previous discography. As well, his two articles were the source of crucial additional information and corrections.

With further information supplied by Doug Paterson and Michael Kieffer, this new, updated "Discography of the 'Wanyika' Groups" is more than twice the size of the original.

-- John Beadle



QUICK LINKS TO SECTIONS OF THIS DISCOGRAPHY:

Jamhuri Jazz Band
Arusha Jazz Band
Orchestra Simba Wanyika
Les Wanyika
Les Moto Moto
Orchestra Jobiso
Super Wanyika Stars
Sigalame System
MAS System
Mavalo Kings
Everest Kings
Great Sounds Band

JAMHURI JAZZ BAND


Jamhuri Jazz was founded in Tanga, Tanganyika in the late 1950s, and was one of the more popular Tanzanian music groups. Wilson Peter Kinyonga & George Peter Kinyonga joined it in 1966 and played with it for the next four years before leaving in December 1970 to found Arusha Jazz Band.? The liner notes of Simba Wanyika Greatest Hits Vol. 1/ (Tamasha CPOLP 638) maintain that shortly after their departure the group fell apart, but this is not the case. Jamhuri Jazz continued to perform at least through the '70s. During this later period several of its members, including Omar Shabani,?were recruited by the Kinyongas to their group Simba Wanyika.

1960s
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Mpenzi Fikiri b/w Wananchi Msiwe Kupe (7" 45; Philips [Nairobi] HL 7-91)

1969
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Kiboko b/w Twamuomba Mola (7" 45; Philips [Nairobi] PK 7-9046)

1969
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Mwenge b/w Marafiki Zangu (7" 45; Philips [Nairobi] PK 7-9051)

1969
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Ahadi Yako b/w Maria Cha Cha (7" 45; Philips [Nairobi] PK 7-9052)

1969
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Sabasaba b/w/ Dunia Imenisonga (7" 45; Philips [Nairobi] PK 7-9058)

1969
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Mpenzi Nimesha Fika b/w Uwa Wako Niwe Wangu (7" 45; African Beat [Nairobi] AB 7-5074)

1969
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Masoka Yako b/w Mpendo Rizika (7" 45; African Beat [Nairobi] AB 7-5074)

1970
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Bibi Mwenye Chongo b/w Ewe Wangu Mpenzi (7" 45; Philips [Nairobi] PK 7-9061)

1970
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Nafikiria Kurudi Shamba b/w Fikeni Jamhuri (7" 45; Philips [Nairobi] PK 7-9069)

1970
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Shingo ya Upanga b/w Kipande cha Papa (7" 45; Philips [Nairobi] PK7-9070)

1970
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Simba Mwituni b/w Waswasi Ondoa (7" 45; Philips [Nairobi] PK7-9072)
-- A later version of "Waswasi Ondoa" appears under the title "Wenzako" on the 1992 Simba Wanyika CD Pepea (Kameleon MNLN CD 01).

1971
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Kibodi b/w Fadhili Iwapi (7" 45; Philips [Nairobi] PK 7-9090)

1971
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Magdalena b/w Pesa Sina Mfukoni (7" 45; Philips [Nairobi] PK 7-9091)

1971
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Susana b/w Sophia Amerika (7" 45; Philips [Nairobi] PK 7-9092)

1971
Jamhuri Jazz
Greatest Hits (LP; Phillips PKLP101
[A] Shingo ya Upanga / Ooh Masikini / Sasa Wako Chonjo / Wasiwasi Ondoa [B] Mganga Pt 1 / Mganga Pt 2 / Simba Mwituni / Nafikiria Kurudi Shamba / Chawa

?
Various Artists
African Gold Vol. 4?(LP; Makumbusho [Nairobi] LP 002)
[A] Balandina (Jamhuri Jazz Band) / Simba Mwituni (Jamhuri Jazz Band) / Rehema Sikia (Dar-es-Salaam Jazz Band) / Sheri (Dar-es-Salaam Jazz Band)
[B] Ngoma Iko Huku (Cuban Marimba Band) / Kacha-cha (Cuban Marimba Band) / Njoo Mpenzi Njoo ( Njohole Jazz Band) / Ooh Usinisumbue (Njohole Jazz Band)
?
?
Various Artists
African Gold Vol. 5?(LP; Makumbusho [Nairobi] LP 003)
[A] Dunia Ina Mambo (Njohole Jazz Band) / Nateseka (Njohole Jazz Band) / Kaza Moyo (Western Jazz Band) / Ni Wewe Wangu (Western Jazz Band)?
[B]? Urafiki Mwisho wa Mwenzi (Morogoro Jazz Band) / Fujo Acha (Morogoro Jazz Band) /?Mganga No. 1 (Jamhuri Jazz Band) /?Mganga No. 2 (Jamhuri Jazz Band)?

? Jamhuri Jazz Band
African Gold Vol. 6?(LP; Makumbusho [Nairobi] MAKU LP 004)
[A] Shingo ya Upanga / Ooh Masikini / Sasa Wako Chonjo / Wasi Wasi Ondoa
[B] Mganga No. 1 / Mganga No. 2 / Simba Mwituni / Nafikiri Kurudi Shamba / Chawa

1988
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Hits of Jamhuri Jazz (Cassette; Polydor [Nairobi] CPOLP 1013)
[A] Sasa Waka Chonjo / Safari / Wasi Wasi Ondoa / Mama Watoto
[B] Ooh Masikini / Susana / Usinichukie Bure / Ewe Kisura

1989?
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Zilizopendwa Vol. 2 (Cassette; Polydor [Nairobi] CPOLP 2002)
[A] Mganga No 1 & 2 / Simba Mwituni / Nafikiria Kurudi Shamba / Chawa
[B] Wivu wa Urongo / Maselina / Rafiki Si Wema / Mtoto wa Kambo

2000
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Shangazi Naomba Taiti Vol. 1 (CD; Melodica [Nairobi] MLDC/D 002) (Cassette; Melodica [Nairobi] MLD 140)
Shangazi Naomba Taiti / Usiwaamini Shemji / Saba Saba / Dunia Imenisonga / Bibi Mwenye Chongo / Ewe Wangu Mpenzi / Toyota / Kipande Cha Papa / Simba Mwitoni / Josephine

2001/02?
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Hits of Jamhuri Jazz Band Vol. 1 - Wanyama Wakali (CD; Tamasha [Nairobi] CDTAM 5005)
Nafisa / Pendo Pesa / Rosa / Sikushauri Kitu / Nimezoea Kufiwa / Aza / Joyce / Isabella

2001/02?
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Hits of Jamhuri Jazz Band Vol. 2 - Budget Beater (CD; Tamasha [Nairobi] CDTAM 2011)
Shingo ya Upanga / Toyota / Kipande Cha Papa / Simba Mwituni / Josephine / Ohh Maskini / Enyi Vijana / Wivu wa Urongo / Maselina / Utamaduni / Rafiki si Wema / Mokindo / Sikushauri Kitu / Nimezoea Kufiwa

2001/02?
Jamhuri Jazz Band
Hits of Jamhuri Jazz Band Vol. 3 - Fadhili Wapi Kwa Mwana-Adamu (CD; Tamasha [Nairobi] CDTAM 2012)
Fadhili Wapi Kwa Mwana-Adamu / Kwa Mapenzi / Resia / Ewe Mwana / Sasa Wako Chonjo / Shangazi Naomba Taiti / Usiwaamini Shemeji / Saba Saba / Bibi Mwenye Chongo / Ewe Wangu Mpenzi / Dunia Imenisonga

ARUSHA JAZZ BAND


Arusha Jazz was founded in Arusha, Tanzania in 1971 by Wilson & George Kinyonga, along with their brother William Kinyonga and three other musicians. According to the liner notes of Simba Wanyika Greatest Hits Vol. 1, a number of songs that would later be associated with Simba Wanyika, like "Pamela," "Kenya Yetu," and "Marceline," were originally recorded under the Arusha Jazz moniker. In June 1971, the group moved to Mombasa, Kenya and took the name Simba Wanyika ("Lion of the Wilderness"). This was not the end of "Arusha Jazz," however.? Peter Toll writes, "Simba Wanyika is the name the Kinyonga brothers adopted after moving from Arusha to Mombasa in 1971 but they also continued using the name Arusha Jazz for a while. George said that when they started out in Mombasa they had two banners on display, one with 'Simba Wanyika,' the other with 'Arusha Jazz.' However, it seems that as from 1973 they only used the name Simba Wanyika."

Early 1970s?
Arusha Jazz Band
Mama Suzie / Mary Mtoto (7" 45; Polydor POL 185)

Early 1970s?
Arusha Jazz Band
Tutengane Salama / Mama Niache (7" 45; Polydor POL 186)

1973
Arusha Jazz Band
Eliza Wangu b/w Jose Twende Zaire?(7" 45; Polydor POL 187)

1987?
Wilson Peter Kinyonga and Arusha Jazz '73
Mama Suzie (Cassette; ASL [Nairobi] CASLP 2009)
[A] Mama Suzie / Mary Mama / Bado Nakupenda / Eliza Wangu / Jose Twende Zaire
[B] Kwaheri Mpenzi / Sela Mbaa-Mbaa / Usinelewe Vibaya / Mbaya Wako Rafikiyo / Ewe Kijana
-- Compilation of older material.

ORCHESTRA SIMBA WANYIKA



While Orchestra Simba Wanyika was for all intents and purposes a continuation of the earlier Arusha Jazz Band, the period between 1971 (the foundation of Arusha Jazz and its move to Mombasa) and 1973 (when Simba Wanyika fully came into its own) marked several changes in the group. Peter Toll writes in "The Wanyika Weave," "...By 1973, the original backup players had been replaced by Rashid Juma, a drummer from Tanga, and a Mombasa bass player, Tom Malanga. On a subsequent trip to Tanzania, the Kinyongas recruited two more musicians from Jamhuri Jazz: saxophonist Elias John and rhythm guitarist Omar Shabani, later nicknamed 'Professor.'" At this time the group signed a record contract with Polygram Kenya. After four years in Mombasa, Simba Wanyika relocated to Nairobi. For the next twenty years, the group played a decisive role in the development of modern East African music.

Doug Paterson writes in his East African Music Page: "Like most Tanzanian bands, Simba Wanyika played rumba with Swahili language lyrics. In contrast to the emerging benga style of the period, Simba Wanyika's music had a much gentler feel; smoother, flowing. Their first recordings didn't even have a drum set. The rhythm was carried along on congas together with claves and a fast, cavacha-like rhythm on high-hat. The rhythm guitar was active and fluid, but very light in its presence. The lead guitar came in only intermittently for soloing. Likewise, the saxophone was used sparingly in solos and to elaborate instrumental portions." Peter Toll writes, "...The smooth melodies sung in unison by Wilson and George were increasingly interspersed with a gritty vocal interplay that would become the band's trademark. The new sound proved a success and won them a large and enthusiastic following."

Following a pattern that has repeated itself throughout the history of African music, Simba Wanyika's success led to disharmony. Having established itself as the premier Swahili-language performing outfit in Kenya, with a number of best-selling singles and albums to its credit, the group suffered a major split in 1978, when a number of members including Omar Shabani left to form Les Wanyika. The group was further decimated in 1980 when another disagreement between George and Wilson Kinyonga led to the establishment of Orchestra Jobiso, a rift that was soon healed.

Despite these setbacks, and following the enrollment of a number of new members, Simba Wanyika roared back in 1983 with the massive hit "Shillingi." This was followed by a number of superior recordings like "Halleluya" and "Baba Asiya."

Following its first world tour in 1991 and the release of the CD Pepea in 1992, Simba Wanyika was at the pinnacle of its international influence. Sadly,?George Peter Kinyonga passed away on Christmas Eve 1992 after a brief illness, and Wilson followed him in 1995. Although there was at least one recording made under the "Simba Wanyika" tag without the brothers (see Memorial Simba Wanyika below) the band dissolved shortly after.

1973
Simba Wanyika
Roza Kipenzi b/w Tufurahize Leo (7" 45, Polydor [Nairobi] POL 226)

1973
Simba Wanyika
Uningoje b/w Regina Wangu (7" 45, Polydor [Nairobi] POL 227)

1974
Simba Wanyika
Riida Ukumbuhe b/w Chakula Juu Kwa Juu (7" 45, Polydor [Nairobi] POL 229)

1975
Simba Wanyika
Karolina b/w Wanyika No. 2 (7" 45, Polydor [Nairobi] POL 335)?

1975
Simba Wanyika
Mombasa Kisiwani b/w Nafikiria Nitakujitu (7" 45, Polydor [Nairobi] POL 336)

1975
Simba Wanyika
Jiburudisheni na Simba Wanyika Vol. 1 (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 506)
[A] Dunia Haina Wema / Kijana Tushirikiane / Halima No. 2 / Lina Chunga Pesa
[B] I Love You Madina / Mchumba Banitaki / Sophy No. 3 / Naepusa Mama

1975
Simba Wanyika
Jiburudisheni na Simba Wanyika Vol. 2 (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 510)
[A] Mwenzangu Usinichukie Part 1 / Mwenzangu Usinichukie Part 2 / Maselina Part 1 / Maselina Part 2
[B] Mama Watoto Samahani Part 1 / Mama Watoto Samahani Part 2 / Ningali Bachela Part 1 / Ningali Bachela Part 2
-- There was some doubt if Jiburudisheni na Simba Wanyika Vol. 2 was ever released, but it was indeed released.

1976
Simba Wanyika
Jamebaki Mazola Pt. 1 b/w Jamebaki Mazola Pt. 1 (7" 45, Polydor [Nairobi] POL 354)
--Luiza Elias John (tenor saxophone), Kassim Mponda Mbwana (mi-solo guitar) and Bindo Bakari Kipanga (rhythm guitar) left Simba Wanyika in 1976 and returned to Tanzania. This departure was due mainly due to the collapse of the East African Community (common market). Luiza Elias John subsequently signed up with Mwenge Jazz, a band owned by the Tanzania People's Defence Forces. Miguel Suleyman, sports and entertainment writer for the Sunday Citizen in Dar es Salaam, who provides this information, writes, "...Luiza Elias was the best educated musician in the whole Wanyika Dynasty. Compare Simba Wanyika music before and after his departure."?

1977
Simba Wanyika
Nakupenda Pt. 1 b/w Nakupenda Pt. 2 (7" 45, Polydor [Nairobi] POL 359)
-- While both songs are written by George Kinyonga, "Nakupenda" is not an early version of "Nakupenda Sherry," later a big hit for George's band Orchestra Jobiso. Peter Toll: "...This song is really rocking, a rhythm called Moja Moja (One One)."

1977
Simba Wanyika
Pesa Taabu Sana Pt. 1 b/w Pesa Taabu Sana Pt. 2 (7" 45, Polydor [Nairobi] POL 375)

1979
Simba Wanyika
Daina Pt. 1 b/w Daina Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 426)

1979?
Simba Wanyika
Sikujua Utabadilika Pt. 1 b/w Sikujua Utabadilika Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL ?)
-- In 1978 all of the members of Simba Wanyika save George, Wilson and William Kinyonga left to form Les Wanyika, led by "Professor" Omar Shabani. Peter Toll, in "The Wanyika Weave," writes,?"...Wilson and George, meanwhile, replaced the players with, among others, rhythm guitarist Joseph Tito, bass player George Madrago and drummer Maneno Shaban Ally, a veteran of Morogoro Jazz and Super Volcano. With the new team they recorded 'Sikujua Utabadilika,' proving that, despite a turnover in personnel, the music was still as strong as ever."

1979?
Various Artists
Hit Parade Number 1 (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 516)
[A] Sikujua Utabadilika (Simba Wanyika) / Sina Makosa (Les Wanyika)
[B] Sauda Unatia Aibu (DDC Mlimani Park Orchestra) / Charo Ni Wasi (Maroon Commandos)

1979?
Various Artists
Hit Parade Number 1 (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 516)
[A]? Sikujua Utabadilika (Simba Wanyika) / Sina Makosa (Les Wanyika)
[B] Sauda Unatia Aibu (DDC Mlimani Park Orchestra) / Charo Ni Wasi (Maroon Commandos)

1980
Simba Wanyika
Dunia Pt. 1 b/w? Dunia Pt. 2?(7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 463)?

1981
Simba Wanyika
Nilipo Zaliwa Pt. 1 b/w Nilipo Zaliwa Pt. 2?(7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 470)?

1983
Simba Wanyika
Shilingi Pt. 1 / Shilingi Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 543)
-- The years 1978-80 were difficult ones for Simba Wanyika. Following the defections of Les Wanyika and Orchestra Jobiso within two years, it was twice necessary to replace most of the musicians in the group. Following the Jobiso split, Wilson recruited a number of new sidemen, including bassist Zolo Saidi, formerly with Jamhuri Jazz, Charles Njewele on rhythm guitar, vocalist John Segereti and Abdullah Kassim on drums. George Kinyonga returned to Simba Wanyika at the end of 1980. "Shillingi" marked a return to the top of the charts for the band following these travails. Peter Toll writes in the liner notes of Pepea, "...It sold close to 50,000 copies at a time when record sales, as a result of music piracy, had already started to drop. 'Shillingi' was also exceptional in its format: a long, loose? narrative line leading up to a regular succession of chorus and verse."

1983
Various Artists
Swahili Special Hit Parade 1983 (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 539)
[A] Shillingi (Simba Wanyika) / Balaa Nyumbani (Kurugenzi Jazz)
[B] Maisha ya Amba (Vijana Jazz) / Amua Nikuachie Kazi (Maroon Commandos)

1983
Various Artists
African Gold Vol. 1 (LP; Makumbusho [Nairobi] AGLP 001)
[A] Kifo cha Mbaraka Mwinshehe (Orchestra Magola International) / Ubaya (Orchestra Mlimani Park)
[B] Mama Ester (Orchestra Simba Wanyika) / Stellah Mwenye Fikara Nzuri (Orchestra Vijana Jazz)

1983
Simba Wanyka
Shillingi Manu Tena Yaua (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 540) (Cassette; Tamasha [Nairobi] CASLP 2014 [1990s])
[A] Shillingi / Mpenzi Rejea
[B] Wana Wanyika / Mwana Sika

1985
Various Artists?
It's My Discothek Vol. 1?(LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 546)
[A] Disco Chakacha (Mombasa Roots Band) / Vielly (Habel Kifoto)?
[B] Mwana Sikia (Simba Wanyika) / Mala Lea Mtoto (Safari Sound Band)

1985
Various Artists
It's My Discothek Vol. 2?(LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 547)
[A] Mwenda Pole (Simba Wanyika) / Mabibi Za Watu (Moreno Batamba & Orchestra Shika Shika)
[B] Furaha Ya Bibi (Sam Mangwana) / Naenda Safari (Laban Ochuka & Maroon Commandos)

1985
Simba Wanyika
Mwana Sikia No. 2 Pt. 1 b/w Mwana Sikia No. 2 Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 581)

1985
Simba Wanyika
Maicha Pt. 1 b/w Maicha Pt. 2?(7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 597)?

1985
Simba Wanyika
Haleluya Pt. 1 b/w Haleluya Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 599)

1985
Various Artists
Dunia Kigeu-geu (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 549)
[A] Maicha (Simba Wanyika) / Natafuta Mwali (Orchestra Jobiso) / Mwana Sikia (Simba Wanyika) / Tatizo la Pesa (Orchestra Jobiso)
[B] Dunia Kigeu-geu (Les Wanyika) / Mke wa Kwanza (Les Wanyika) / Sioni Wala Sisikii (Les Wanyika) / Hesuimuni Wazazi (Les Wanyika)
-- Although the tunes are listed as "Pts. 1 & 2," they are all only Pt. 1.

1985
Simba Wanyika
Haleluya (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 552)
[A] Haleluya / Mama Nyange
[B] Mapenzi Yaniua / Baba na Mama

1986
Simba Wanyika
Kanyama Pt. 1 b/w Kanyama Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 604)

1986?
Simba Wanyika Original
Kenya Vol. 1: Baba Asiya (LP; African Music Gallery [Washington, DC] AMG 003)
[A] Baba Asiya / Marceline #2
[B] Tushirikiane / Hasira Hasara

1988
Simba Wanyika
Dunia Haina Wema (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 565)(CD; Tamasha [Nairobi] CDTAM 0028)
[A]? Pamela / Yamebaki Mazoea / Mbele ya Mungu
[B]? Dunia Haina Wema / Leka Ulole / Lina Linda Pesa / Mama Sofia
-- Reissue of material from the early 1970s. Peter Toll: "1973 is the year Philips Kenya became Polygram (Polydor). When Polygram started releasing LPs they compiled from 45 RPMs, they often said 'Original Recording-Polygram Studios 1973,' like on the LP Dunia Haina Wema(POLP 565). But that's just because Polygram didn't care or couldn't figure out when these singles had originally come out."

1988
Simba Wanyika Original
Mapenzi Ni Damu (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 572)
[A] Mapenzi Ni Damu / Dunia Ina Taabu
[B] Marieta / Watu Husema

1989
Simba Wanyika
"Live in Europe" (Unreleased recording)
Wana Wanyika / Maicha / Shilingi / Mwenda Pole / Haleluya / Kula Kidogo / Christmas
-- Although this recording was never released, it was listed in Ronnie Graham's The World of African Music (Pluto Press, London, 1992) as "Live in Europe."

As Peter Toll recounts in the article "Wanyika Memories" (The Beat, Vol. 12, #.4, 1993), when Simba Wanyika was ready to begin its first European tour in November 1989, it was faced with a problem: only the Kinyonga brothers, Wilson and George, had passports. To replace the three other musicians, they recruited three members of another band, Africa Jambo Jambo. Ugandan Sammy Kasule had performed with a number of groups, and had issued several solo recordings, while two Congolese musicians, Coco Kanyinda and Micky Jaga Jaga, had been a part of Orchestra Les Mangalepa.

Peter writes, "...Although the formation that went to Europe in 1989 was not really Wilson Peter's band, they played strictly Kinyonga material and they did it with verve and skill. Their concerts met with wide acclaim, and before their return to Nairobi, they recorded a medley of Simba Wanyika hits that was used to promote an extensive European tour planned for the summer." Peter further relates that, because of a contractual dispute with Polygram Records in Nairobi, he was unable to release the Wanyika "Medley Tape" as planned. It was, however, the inspiration for a medley album by Les Wanyika, 1990'sLes Les Non Stop '90 (Polydor POLP 606).

Peter expresses hope that someday "Live in Europe" will be released.

1990
Various Artists
Guitar Paradise of East Africa (CD; Earthworks/Cardiac [New York City] 3-1021-2)
Sukuma Songa (Sukuma Bin Ongaro) / Achi Maria (H.O. Kabaselleh) / Mumbi Ni Wanwa (Daniel Kamau) / Odesia (Les Mangalepa) / Wana Wanyika (Simba Wanyika) / Mama Kamale (Sukuma Bin Ongaro) / Shauri Yako (Orchestra Super Mazembe) / Ndia (Peter Mwambi) / Harare (Les Mangalepa) / Ndiretikia Ni Nii (The Famous Nyahururu Boys) / Mwendwa Jane (Kilimambogo Brothers)

1992
Simba Wanyika Original
Pepea (CD; Kameleon [Netherlands] KMLN CD 01) (Cassette; Tamasha [Nairobi] CPOLP 639 [1993, as "Simba Wanyika in Europe"])
Mwongele / Wenzako / Pamela / Sikujua Utabadilika / Nakupenda Cherie / Pole Pole / Maria
-- Recorded in Holland during Simba Wanyika's 1991 world tour. Musicians listed in addition to Wilson & George Kinyonga on vocals, solo & rhythm guitar, are: Maneno Shaban Ally (percussion, drums), Mike Beche (drums) and Victor Boniface (bass).

Early 1990s?
Simba Wanyika Original Mapenzi ya Weekend (Cassette; Polydor [Nairobi] CPOLP 623)
[A] Mapenzi ya Weekend / Kipenzi Changu Tulia
[B] Baba Mbele / Chiku Wacha Tamaa

1993
Simba Wanyika
Greatest Hits Vol. 1 (Cassette; Tamasha [Nairobi] CPOLP 638)
[A] Mwenda Pole / Mwanasikia / Kanyama [B] Maicha / Wana Wanyika / Baba Nyange

Mid 1990s?
Simba Wanyika
Mbere Ya Mungu (Cassette; Tamasha [Nairobi] CPOLP 1026)
[A] Punguza Papara Zako / Pesa Ni Taabu Sana
[B] Pamela / Mbere Ya Mungu / Leka Ulole

Mid 1990s?
Simba Wanyika
African Stars Collection Vol. 2 (LP; Jumbo Jet JJOP 002) [A] Pamela/ Mbele ya Mungu / Leka Olole
[B] Punguza Papara Zako Pt. 1 / Pesa Ni Taabu
-- Apparently another edition of CPOLP 1026, above .

Mid 1990s?
Simba Wanyika
Memorial Simba Wanyika (Cassette; Melodica [Nairobi] MLD 197)
[A] Tuzo kwa Wazazi / Kinacho Mliza Mama / Kilimanjaro
[B] Dalili Zako / Tushirikiane / Dada Asha
--Peter Toll: "This is not original Simba Wanyika. It's a Tanzanian guy who wrote to me after Wilson died. He said he was their cousin (?) and was going to continue Simba Wanyika. He sent me this cassette but I never heard from him again."

Mid 1990s?
Simba Wanyika
Wanyika (Cassette; Melodica [Nairobi] MLD 223)
[A] Wanyika / Watanzania Ulimwengu / Kwaheri Mpenzi / Sela Mbaa Mbaa
[B] Usinielewe Vibaya / Mbaya Wako Rafikiyo / Maselina / Sabina Turual Taveta / Busara Nimechoka

LES WANYIKA



Rhythm guitarist Omar Shabani ("Professor Omar") left Simba Wanyika with Tom Malanga (bass), Rashid Juma (drums), and Elias John (saxophone) in 1978 to found Les Wanyika together with Tanzanians John Ngereza and vocalist Issa Juma. Shortly after the release of Les Wanyika's signature tune "Sina Makosa" in 1979, Issa Juma went his own way. During the 1980s, Les Wanyika were at least as prolific and influential as Simba Wanyika, with a multitude of releases throughout the decade, culminating with the smash hits Nilipi la Ajabu and Nimaru in 1988 and 1989.?

While Omar Shabani founded Les Wanyika and had written many of its hits, by 1990 it was apparent that his talents were fading. Peter Toll writes,"...During the 1980s I think there was a power struggle between Ngereza and Shabani which Ngereza won when Polygram decided that he was the person they should work with. His songs were also selling better." Shabani was expelled from Les Wanyika in 1990 and found a place with the Everest Kings before rejoining the group a couple of years later.

Sadly, Omar Shabani died in 1997, and John Ngereza followed him in 2002.


1979
Les Wanyika
Paulina Pt. 1 b/w Paulina Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 427)

1979?
Les Wanyika
Sina Makosa Pt. 1 b/w Sina Makosa Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL ?)
-- Peter Toll writes in "Wanyika Memories, "...Although Professor Omar has always been credited as the composer of 'Sina Makosa' -? and consequently reaped the financial benefits - the song was actually cowritten with George [Kinyonga] during their time together in Simba Wanyika. The vocal line unmistakably bears George's stamp while the rhythm and chord progression recall 'Daina,' a song George had written earlier. Probably because of this resemblence the Kinyongas chose not to record 'Sina Makosa.' But when their musicians let them down and started Les Wanyika, the new group picked the song as one of the first tracks to record. To George's dismay, the record became a phenomenal success, both in and outside Kenya."

1979? Les Wanyika
New Dance "Les Les" (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 513)(Cassette; ASL [Nairobi] CASLP 2001 [1988?])
[A] Pamela / Wazazi
[B] Nisaidie Baba / Usia wa Baba

1979?
Various Artists
Hit Parade Number 1 (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 516)
[A] Sikujua Utabadilika (Simba Wanyika) / Sina Makosa (Les Wanyika) [B] Sauda Unatia Aibu (DDC Mlimani Park Orchestra) / ?

1980
Les Wanyika
Sina Makosa b/w Maisha Ya Mjini (12" 33 single; Makossa [Brooklyn, NY, USA] MEA 716)

1980?
Les Wanyika
Pamela Pt. 1 b/w Pamela Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 437)

1980?
Les Wanyika
Kajituliza Kasuku Pt. 1 b/w Kajituliza Kasuku Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 454)

1981
Les Wanyika
Mbaya Wako Rafiki Yako Pt. 1 b/w Mbaya Wako Rakiki Yako Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 495)

1982
Les Wanyika
AFC Leopard Pt. 1 b/w AFC Leopard Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 502)

1982
Les Wanyika
Naogopa Pt. 1 b/w Naogopa Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 504)

1982
Les Wanyika
Nimebaki Upweke Pt. 1 b/w Nimebaki Upweke Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 522)

1983
Les Wanyika
Heshima Mbele (Tulia Ukae) Pt. 1 b/w Heshima Mbele (Tulia Ukae) Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 530)

1983
Les Wanyika
Mony Pt. 1 b/w Mony Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 546)

1983
Les Wanyika
Dunia Ki Geu-Geu Pt. 1 b/w Dunia Ki Geu-Geu Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 596)

1980?
Les Wanyika
Greatest Hits - Sina Makosa (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 533)
[A] Contents unknown
[B] Contents unknown

1984?
Various Artists
Dunia Kigeu-geu (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 549)
[A] Maicha (Simba Wanyika) / Natafuta Mwali (Orchestra Jobiso) / Mwana Sikia (Simba Wanyika) / Tatizo la Pesa (Orchestra Jobiso)
[B] Dunia Kigeu-geu (Les Wanyika) / Mke wa Kwanza (Les Wanyika) / Sioni Wala Sisikii (Les Wanyika) / Hesuimuni Wazazi (Les Wanyika)
-- Although the tunes are listed as "Pts. 1 & 2," they are all only Pt. 1.

1986
Les Wanyika
Mama Niache Niteseke Pt. 1 b/w Mama Niache Niteseke Pt. 2 (7" 45; Polydor [Nairobi] POL 607)

1988
Les Wanyika
Nilipi La Ajabu (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 582)
[A] Afro / Mambo Yamebadilika
[B] Safari Sio Kifo / Nilipi la Ajabu

1989
Les Wanyika
Nimaru (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 598)(CD; Tamasha [Nairobi] CDTAM 0026)
[A] Nimaru / Mama Watoto
[B] Mume Wangu Waniteza / Shemeji Agnes

1990
Various Artists
Kenya Dance Mania (CD; Earthworks/Cardiac [New York City] 3-1024-2)
Mwakaribishwa na Maroon (Maroon Commandos) / Tony Onyango (Gabriel Omolo & his Apollo Komesha) / Sina Makosa (Les Wanyika) / Magy Nyar Alego (Gabriel Omolo & his Apollo Komesha) / Wuoro Ogola Adoyo (H.O. Kabaselleh) / Wed Today Divorce Tomorrow (Gabriel Omolo & his Apollo Komesha) / Charonyi ni Wasi (Maroon Commandos) / Lunch Time (Gabriel Omolo & his Apollo Komesha) / Simimi (Wanyika Super Les Les) / I Love You (No. 2) (Daniel Kamau)

1990
Les Wanyika
Les Les Non Stop '90 (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 606)
[A] Nimaru / Safari Sio Kifo / Sina Makosa / Mama Watoto / Nilipi la Ajabu
[B] Afro / Shemeji Agnes / Heshimu Wazazi / Kwanza Jiulize / Mume Wangu Wanitesa

1991
Les Wanyika
Kabibi (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 626)(CD; Tamasha [Nairobi] CDTAM 0027)
[A] Kabibi / Mama Capol
[B] Ema / Penzi Ni Damu

Early 1990s
Les Wanyika
Greatest Hits of Less Wanyika (Cassette; Tamasha [Nairobi] CPOLP 1035)
[A] Sina Makosa / Kwana Jiulize / Mbaya Wako Rafiki Yako
[B] Tafua Wako / Barua Yako / Kajituliza Kasuku

Early 1990s?
Various Artists
Wasemanyo Waimbaji Wetu?(Cassette; Tamasha [Nairobi] CPOLP 646)
[A] Haki Zetu (John Ngereza) / Wivu na Fitina (Justus Kasoya) / Tuelewane Ndugu (Abdul Muyonga)
[B] Kujenga Nyumba (Prof. Omari) / Ufukara Sio Kilema (John Ngereza) / Alice Samba (Justus Kasoya)
-- The artists are not listed on the cassette (the names in parentheses are the composers). Doug Paterson reports the actual track listing as follows: [A] Haki Zetu (Les Wanyika) / Wivu na Fitina (Changwithya Stars) / Tuelewane Ndugu (Everest Kings) [B] Kujenga Nyumba (Everest Kings) / Ufukara Sio Kilema [actually "Dunia Ki-Geu Geu"] (Les Wanyika) / Alice Samba (Changwithya Stars).

Early 1990s?
John Ngereza & les Wanyika
Safari na Samburu (Cassette; Tamasha [Nairobi] CPOLP 656)
[A] Safari na Samburu / Mpenzi Rukia
[B] Penzi Halina Siri / Masikitiko

1990s
Les Wanyika
Weekend na Les Wanyika (Cassette; Matunda Productions [Nairobi] NYIKA/LES/C01)
[A] Mama Mzazi / Lift kwa Jirani / Weekend
[B] Jina Langu Mambo / Esta Nikubuke / Chunga Watoto

1995
Les Wanyika
Fitina (Cassette; Matunda Productions [Nairobi] NYIKA LES 002)
[A] Fitina / Mke Wangu / Kawaii
[B] Zaina / Maria / Kubali Kosa

1995
John Ngereza & Les Wanyika Orchestra
Maisha Ni Mapambano (Cassette; Tiriki Electronics [Nairobi] LES-NYIKA 0198)
[A] Pongezi Kina Mama / Maisha Ni Mapambano / Ubaya Hauna Cheo
[B] Nicholas Magara / Tamaa Mbaya / Amigo

1997
Les Wanyika
Amigo (CD; Clifford Lugard Productions [East Orange, NJ, USA] CLP 001)
Amigo / Sina Makosa / Ubaya Hauna Cheo / Afro / Nimaru / Pamela / Tamaa Mbaya / Maisha Ni Mapambano / Paulina
-- New, re-recorded versions of Wanyika classics.

1998
John Ngereza & Les Wanyika Orchestra
Penzi Halina Siri (Cassette; Tiriki Electronics [Nairobi] LES WANYIKA 0199)
[A] Safari ya Samburu / Emma / Nimebaki Upweke
[B] Penzi Halina Siri / Naogopa / Mama Carol

Late 1990s?
Les Wanyika?
The Best of Professor Omar Shabani & John Ngereza - Paulina??(CD; Tamasha [Nairobi] CDTAM 002) (Cassette; Tamasha [Nairobi] TAM 002 [as The Best of Omar Shabani & John Ngereza)
Paulina / Pamela / Haki Zetu / Kajituliza Kasuku / Kujenga Nyumba / Ufukara Sio Kilema

2000?
Les Wanyika
Sina Makosa (CD; Tamasha [Nairobi] CDTAM 5020) (CD; no label [US?], no reference number)(CD; Tamasha [Nairobi] CDTAM 0025) (Cassette; Tamasha [Nairobi] CPOLP 1035)
Sina Makosa / Kwana Jiulize / Mbaya Wako Rafiki Yako / Tafua Wako / Barua Yako / Kajituliza Kasuku / Wazazi / Paulina
-- "Greatest Hits" compilation of original recordings. "Barua Yako" is actually "Naogopa" (Polydor POL 504). The Tamasha release CDTAM 5020 lacks "Paulina."

LES MOTO MOTO



Kenyan recording contracts are signed not with groups as a whole but with the leaders. Thus in the early days when Les Wanyika was led by Omar Shabani, John Ngereza did not receive any royalties for songs that he wrote. To get around this, Ngereza established "Les Moto Moto," in essence Les Wanyika recording under another name.?This arrangement was very similar to the one between Simba Wanyika and Orchestra Jobiso (see below).

Early 1980s?
Orchestra Les Moto-Moto?
Jessica Pt. 1 b/w Jessica Pt. 2 (7" 45; Editions Chris Tetemeko [Nairobi] Chris-30) .


ORCHESTRA JOBISO



In 1980 George Kinyonga had a falling-out with his brother Wilson and left Simba Wanyika. All of the other members of the group, save William Kinyonga, departed with him to form Orchestra Jobiso, named after a dance rhythm featured on Simba Wanyika records in the 1970s. Additional musicians were percussionist Mike Beche and trumpeter Saidi Makelele, both of whom had previously played with Mbaraka Mwinshehe's group Super Volcano. The new band was an immediate sensation with the smash hits "Nakupenda Sherry" and "Pole Jobiso."?

Toward the end of the year Wilson and George Kinyonga reconciled and George rejoined Simba Wanyika. The remaining Jobiso members, left "high and dry" so to speak, joined forces with former Les Wanyika vocalist Issa Juma to form a new group, Super Wanyika Stars.

Orchestra Jobiso was not to disappear, however. Peter Toll writes in "Wanyika Memories, "...After George's return to Simba Wanyika, the brothers solved an old problem of the band's recording contract being exclusively in Wilson's name. The solution was an arrangement enabling George to record his own material with the musicians of Simba Wanyika and release it under his own contract as Orchestra Jobiso. this is how songs like 'Natafuta Mwali' and 'Tatizo la Pesa' were recorded, as well as his 1984 hit, 'Epuka Kizai-Zai.'''?


1980?
Orchestra Jobiso
Nakupenda Sherry Pt. 1 b/w Nakupenda Sherry Pt. 2 (7" 45; recording information unavailable)

1980?
Orchestra Jobiso
Mwana Wa Kambo Pt. 1 b/w Mwana Wa Kambo Pt. 2 (7" 45; recording information unavailable)

1980?
Orchestra Jobiso
Pole Jobiso Pt. 1 b/w Pole Jobiso Pt. 2 (7" 45; recording information unavailable)

1981
Orchestra Jobiso
Nakupenda Sherry b/w Mwana Wa Kambo (12" 33 single; Makossa [Brooklyn, NY, USA] MEA 720)

1981
Orchestra Jobiso b/w Orchestre Lawi Somona
Pole Jobiso / Safi (12" 33 single; Makossa [Brooklyn, NY, USA] MEA 721)

1981
Various Artists
Uvivu Mbaya (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 522)
[A] Uvivu Mbaya (Maroon Commandos) / Mwana Rudi Nyumbani (Simba Wanyika) / Bibi wa Maana (Kalambya Boys)
[B] Visa Uyako Nimechoka (Orchestra Jobiso) / Janet Tuwaepuke (Les Wanyika) / Mapenzi ya Siri (Kalambya Boys)

1984/85?
Various Artists
Dunia Kigeu-geu (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 549)
[A] Maicha (Simba Wanyika) / Natafuta Mwali (Orchestra Jobiso) / Mwana Sikia (Simba Wanyika) / Tatizo la Pesa (Orchestra Jobiso)
[B] Dunia Kigeu-geu (Les Wanyika) / Mke wa Kwanza (Les Wanyika) / Sioni Wala Sisikii (Les Wanyika) / Hesuimuni Wazazi (Les Wanyika)
-- Although the tunes are listed as "Pts. 1 & 2," they are all only Pt. 1.

1988
Orchestre Jobiso
Maisha Si Nguvu (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 574)
[A] Baba Asiya / Baba Wana Vipi
[B] Mama Nawe Hatujakosana / Epuka Kizai-zai

1989
Orchestra Jobiso
Natafuta Mwali (Cassette;?Polydor [Nairobi] CPOLP 577)
[A] Natafuta Mwali / Epuka Kisanga
[B] Tatizo La Pesa / Maicha

Late 1980s/Early 1990s?
Orchestra Jobiso
Pole (Cassette; Polydor [Nairobi] CPOLP 625)
[A] Pole / Pamela No. 3
[B] Epuka Kizai-zai No. 3 / Baba Asiya No. 3


SUPER WANYIKA STARS



His soulful voice having graced Les Wanyika's breakout hit "Sina Makosa" in 1979, Tanzanian singer Issa Juma soon went his own way, establishing with the remnants of Orchestra Jobiso yet another "Wanyika" splinter group, variously entitled Waanyika, Wanyika Stars, Super Wanyika, Wanyika Super Les Les etc., hereafter all collectively referred to as "Super Wanyika Stars." For a time Super Wanyika gave the other Wanyika bands a run for their money with notable hits like "Ateka" and "Sigalame."?

Issa Juma underwent a series of personal misfortunes in the late 1980s, including six months in prison for working without a valid permit. Following this he withdrew to Kericho in western Kenya and stopped performing. It was around this time that he suffered a stroke that left one side of his body paralyzed.? Juma died in the early 1990s.

?? Early 1980s
Wanyika (Super Les Les)
Mpita Njia Pt. 1 / Mpita Njia Pt. 2? (7" 45; Waanyika [Kenya] NYIKA 1)

Early 1980s
"Wanyika" Super Les Les
Simimi Pt. 1 / Simimi Pt. 2? (7" 45; Waanyika [Kenya] NYIKA 06)

Early 1980s?
Wanyika "Super Les Les"
Wacha Waseme Pt. 1 b/w Wacha Waseme Pt. 2 (7" 45; Waanyika [Kenya] NYIKA 05)

Early 1980s
Issa Juma & Waanyika
Ateka Pt. 1 b/w Ateka Pt. 2 (7" 45; Waanyika [Kenya] NYIKA 09)

Early 1980s?
Wanyika Stars
Dunia Ya Sasa Pt. 1 b/w Dunia Ya Sasa Pt. 2 (7" 45; ? [Kenya] DISCO 002)

Early 1980s?
Wanyika Stars
Kaka Yangu Pt. 1 b/w Kaka Yangu Pt. 2 (7" 45; Njangwa [Kenya] SALULA 03)

Early 1980s?
Wanyika Stars
Si Kosa Langu Pt. 1 b/w Si Kosa Langu Pt. 2 (7" 45; Isuni-Yilu [Kenya] MUYA 1)

Early 1980s?
Issa Juma & Wanyika Stars
Sigalame Pt. 1 b/w Sigalame Pt. 2 (7" 45; Isuni-Yilu [Kenya] MUYA 6)

Mid 1980s?
Wanyika Stars
Kaka Sulemani Pt. 1 b/w Kaka Sulemani Pt. 2 (7" 45; Isuni-Yilu [Kenya] MUYA 8)

Early 1980s
Issa Juma & Super Wanyika
Nimeshakwambia Pt. 1 b/w Nimeshakwambia Pt. 2 (7"45; Pole Pole [Kenya] POLE 001)

Early 1980s
Issa Juma & Super Wanyika
Nifanye Nini Pt. 1 b/w Nifanyi Nini Pt. 2 (7" 45; Pole Pole [Kenya] POLE 002)

Early 1980s
Issa Juma & Super Wanyika
Matatizo Nimeyazoea Pt. 1 b/w Matatizo Nimeyazoea Pt. 2 (7" 45; Pole Pole [Nairobi] POLE 003)

Early 1980s
Issa Juma & Super Wanyika
Wafanyi Kazi Pt. 1 b/w Wafanyi Kazi Pt. 2 (7" 45; Pole Pole [Nairobi] POLE 004)

1982
Issa Juma & Super Wanyika
Shida Zako Pt. 1 b/w Shida Zako Pt. 2 (7" 45; Pole Pole [Nairobi] POLE 005)

1982
Issa Juma & Super Wanyika
Matatizo Nimeyazoea (LP; Pole Pole [Nairobi] POLE LP 001)
[A] Matatizo Nimeyazoea / Lawama
[B] Anita / Wafnyi Kazi

Mid 1980s?
Wanyika Stars
Teresia Pt. 1 b/w Teresia Pt. 2 (7" 45; MMM Panther Sounds Panther 006)

Early 1980s
Wanyika Stars
Sigalame! (Cassette; Matunda Productions [Nairobi] ANA C15)
[A] Sigalame / Atieno / Dunia ya Sasa Pt. 1
[B] Uchungu wa Mwana / Sitaki Maneno / Dunia ya Sasa Pt. 2

Early 1980s
Issa Juma
Safari (Cassette; Matunda Productions [Nairobi] ANA C18)
[A] Safari / Nakupenda Lakini / Salima Pt. 1
[B] Bomanga / Chuki ya Nini / Salima Pt. 2

Early 1980s
Issa Juma & Wanyika Stars?
Mwana wa Ifwe (Cassette; Matunda Productions [Nairobi] ANA C19)
[A] ?
[B] ?

Early 1980s
Issa Juma & Wanyika Stars?
Irene?(Cassette; Matunda Productions [Nairobi] ANA C23)?
[A] Irene / Jacinta / Bwana Opinda Pt. 1
[B] Mama Nyamala / Zangaro / Bwana Opinda Pt. 2

1983
Issa Juma & Super Wanyika
Lawama Pt. 1 b/w Lawama Pt. 2 (7" 45; Pole Pole [Nairobi] POLE 006)

?
Issa Juma & Super Wanyika
Anita Pt. 1 b/w Anita Pt. 2 (7" 45; Pole Pole [Nairobi] POLE 007)

?
Wanyika Stars
Kaka Yangu Pt. 1 b/w Kaka Yangu Pt. 2 (7" 45; Njangwa [Kenya] SALULA 03)

1983
Various Artists
Djalenga (12 inch 45rpm; Swahili Records [UK] 12 SWAH 001)
[A] Djalenga (Prince Lessa Lassan) / Etali Yomoko (Super Lovy)
[B] Nimesha - Kwambia (Super Wanyika) / Tatukama (Prince Lessa Lassan)

Mid 1980s
L'Orchestre Waanyika
Ma Eliza Pt. 1 b/w Ma Eliza Pt. 2 (7"45; Waanyika [Kenya] NYIKA 10)

1984?
Isa Juma & Super Wanyika Stars
Mpita-Njia (LP; Editions FrancAfrique [Nairobi] NYIKALP 01)
[A] Si Mimi / Barua
[B] Sauda / Mpita-Njia

1984
Issa Juma & Waanyika
Pole Pole (LP; Editions FrancAfrique [Nairobi] NYIKALP 02)
[A] Rafiki Yangu / Ateka
[B] Utalia na Nani / Pole Pole

1984/85?
Issa Juma and Super Wanyika Stars
Bwana Musa
(LP; Editions FrancAfrique [Nairobi] NYIKALP 03)
[A] Bwana Musa / Carolina
[B] Mwanaidi / Mary

1986
Issa Juma and Super Wanyika Stars
Sigalame 2 (LP; Editions FrancAfrique [Nairobi] NYIKALP 04)
[A] Pole Issa / Mony
[B] Sigalame 2 / Maria

1990
Issa Juma & Les Wanyika Stars
Sigalame 2 (LP; DiscAfrique [UK] AFRILP 008) (CD; DiscAfrique [UK] AFRICD 008)
[A] Sigalame 2 / Rafiki Yangu / Mony
[B] Ateka / Pole Pole / Sarah
-- Although this album is credited to "Les Wanyika Stars," it is really by the Super Wanyika Stars.

1990
Various Artists
Kenya Dance Mania (CD; Earthworks/Cardiac [New York City] 3-1024-2)
Mwakaribishwa na Maroon (Maroon Commandos) / Tony Onyango (Gabriel Omolo & his Apollo Komesha) / Sina Makosa (Les Wanyika) / Magy Nyar Alego (Gabriel Omolo & his Apollo Komesha) / Wuoro Ogola Adoyo (H.O. Kabaselleh) / Wed Today Divorce Tomorrow (Gabriel Omolo & his Apollo Komesha) / Charonyi ni Wasi (Maroon Commandos) / Lunch Time (Gabriel Omolo & his Apollo Komesha) / Simimi (Wanyika Super Les Les) / I Love You (No. 2) (Daniel Kamau)

SIGALAME SYSTEM



Doug Paterson reports that after Issa Juma left the group, the Super Wanyika Stars continued to perform under the name Sigalame System. It is not known if they made any recordings.



MAS SYSTEM



In the late 1980s economic pressures forced Simba Wanyika to reduce from seven members to five. One of the musicians who left the group was a guitarist Abu Omar, who subsequently established MAS System. "MAS" stands for Muungano All-Stars, after the Muungano Point Club in Nairobi where the group used to play. Peter Toll reports that the group issued at least one other LP in addition to "Sumu Ya Mapenzi."

1990
Abbu Omar Prof. Junior & MAS System
Sumu Ya Mapenzi?(LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 602)
[A] Sumu Ya Mapenzi / Dunia Ina Mambo
[B] Nachunga Heshima / Kichombe Ro


MAVALO KINGS

Former Les Wanyika vocalists Freshley Lucas Mwamburi and Mohamed Tika founded the Mavalo Kings in the late 1980s, together with guitarist Abdul Muyonga, a veteran of both Simba Wanyika and Les Wanyika. Also with the group at the start were Athumani M. Wetuko (rhythm guitar), Lisasi Jeal Ber (bass), Mahmood Hussein Yassin (drums), and Hassan Mohamed Ngao (tumbas). Almost immediately, Abdul Muyonga led a breakaway group called the Les Wanyika.?

While Ronnie Graham's book, The World of African Music, describes the group as a "benga band," this is definitely not the case. The Mavalos as well as their offshoot the Everest Kings were well within the "Swahili Rumba" tradition of the Wanyikas. The Mavalo Kings seem to have faded away within a few years, and Freshley Mwamburi pursued a solo career, scoring at least one big hit, "Stellah," very much in the Wanyika mold. In the last few years he rejoined his erstwhile comrades in the Everest Kings, only to part ways with them again in 2003.


1988
Mavalo Kings
Heshima Kidogo (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 581)
[A] Heshima Kidogo / Mama Mzazi
[B] Sakina / Christmas

1989
Mavalo Kings
Tembea Kijana (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 599)
[A] Tembea Kijana / Rafiki Mdaku
[B] Tamaa Wacha / Mchumba Wangu

1999?
Freshley Mwamburi
Watenda Wema?(CD;Tamasha [Nairobi] CDTAM 5018)
Stellah / Siri Moyoni / Margy / Wanawake Hawana Wivu / Safari ya Mombasa / Tuelewane Ndugu / Panga Mipango?


EVEREST KINGS

Wanyika veteran Abdul Muyonga, joined by Mohamed Tika and Mahmood Husssein Yassin, left the Mavalo Kings to found the Everest Kings in the late 1980s. Since the death of John Ngereza in 2002, it has been the formost representative of the "Wanyika legacy" in Kenya. Its base of operations has shifted between Machakos and Nairobi.

The Kings have? kept alive not only the Wanyika sound, but their fissiparous ways. Over the years the band has been a home for assorted refugees from Wanyika groups, while enduring its own splits. Omar Shabani joined the group for a time before rejoining Les Wanyika in the early 1990s.?Bassist Tom Malanga also defected from Les Wanyika in the 1990s, returned to it for a short period, then came back to the Everest Kings. Singer Freshley Mwamburi, former leader of the Mavalo Kings, joined the group around 2000, thus, in a sense, healing the original Mavalo Kings/Everest Kings breach. In 2003 Mwamburi left with several other members to join the Great Sounds Band.

The latest news, as reported by the Daily Nation of Nairobi, is that several of "the band's original founders," namely Mohammed Hussein [Mahmood Husssein Yassin?], Pius Indimuli and Richard Bangalala, have returned to the Everest fold.

1989
Everest Kings
Mama Kei (LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 594)
[A] Mama K / Walimwengu
[B] Rebecca / Zuwena

1991
The Everest Kings
Rebecca?(LP; Polydor [Nairobi] POLP 614)?
[A] Rebecca / Tusikizane
[B] Karibuni / Monica

Early 1990s?
Various Artists
Wasemanyo Waimbaji Wetu?(Cassette; Tamasha [Nairobi] CPOLP 646)
[A] Haki Zetu (John Ngereza) / Wivu na Fitina (Justus Kasoya) / Tuelewane Ndugu (Abdul Muyonga)
[B] Kujenga Nyumba (Prof. Omari) / Ufukara Sio Kilema (John Ngereza) / Alice Samba (Justus Kasoya)
-- The artists are not listed on the cassette (the names in parentheses are the composers). Doug Paterson reports the actual track listing as follows: [A] Haki Zetu (Les Wanyika) / Wivu na Fitina (Changwithya Stars) / Tuelewane Ndugu (Everest Kings) [B] Kujenga Nyumba (Everest Kings) / Ufukara Sio Kilema [actually "Dunia Ki-Geu Geu"] (Les Wanyika) / Alice Samba (Changwithya Stars).

?
Abdul Muyonga & Everest Kings
Wanawake Hawana Wivu (Cassette; Tamasha [Nairobi] KCI 1)
[A] Wanawake Hawana Wivu / Safari ya Mombasa / Mama wa Kambo
[B] Muungano wa Africa / Kuishi Ni Bahati / Gracecar

2000
Everest Kings
Nivishe Pete (CD; Tamasha [Nairobi] TAM0030)
?
-- The Daily Nation [Nairobi] of June 11, 2000 writes, "The Everest Kings Band has released a new CD titled, Nivishe Pete, which is already popular with revelers at their new base, the Great Kyama Inn. The CD, a follow-up to singer Freshley Mwamburi's hit, 'Stella,' [Watenda Wema, above] also contains the songs, Boaz Olao, Wambua and Panga Mipango."

2004
The Everest Kings
Stella Wangu (CD; recording information unavailable)
?
-- The Daily Nation [Nairobi] of March 13, 2004: "...The group has released a new album, Stella Wangu, a redone version of the song Stella, originally done by former band member Freshley Mwamburi, now with the Great Sounds Band. Other hits in the new album, which is a fusion of rumba and hip-hop, are Njiwa and Simoni...."


GREAT SOUNDS BAND

The Daily Nation (Nairobi) of March 13, 2004 reported that Tom Malanga, Freshley Mwamburi and rhythm guitarist Rashid Athman left the Everest Kings in 2003 to join a new group, the Great Sounds Band. It is not known what connection this band has with any of the Wanyika groups or if it has issued any recordings.


--This discography was compiled by Doug Paterson (East African Music Page ) and Peter Toll in collaboration with John Beadle, P.O. Box 100174, Milwaukee, WI 53210 USA. Additions and corrections to this discography should be emailed to John Beadle. Thanks to: Dolf Motz, MIchael Kieffer, Juan Carlos Mercado Rios, Miguel Suleyman, Ray Templeton, Zim Bida...


Last updated on September 28, 2015



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