Born blind but visionary in sound — Fanuel Amimo turned everyday objects into instruments and rural tales into timeless hits, becoming a pillar of Luhya music heritage.
Early Life (1947–1960s)
Fanuel Amimo was born in 1947 in Shianda, Butere sub-county, Kakamega County, Kenya (some accounts mention Bumala). Growing up in a musical family, he began experimenting with rhythms at age 5, beating on sufurias (cooking pots). Blind from birth or early childhood, he honed his auditory skills sharply. By 12, he crafted his first guitar from fishing line and a jerrycan. His early exposure to "disko matanga" (local funeral discos) sparked his passion for performance.
Musical Beginnings and Move to Nairobi (1964)
At 17, Fanuel walked over 400 km to Nairobi with one song. Busking outside the Hilton, he caught producer David Amunga's ear. His debut single "Someni Vijana" (Study Hard, Youth) sold 8,000 copies in a week. He innovated by using spoons on Coke bottles for percussion, astonishing tourists—clips still circulate as "Kenyan beatbox origins."
“Wazungu walishangaa kijiko kikitoa bass. Lakini sisi tulikuwa tunaita tu ‘disko matanga’.” – Fanuel Amimo, Roga Roga interview, 2025
Rise to Fame and Discography (1970s–1980s)
As part of Butere Sharpshooters, Fanuel blended Luhya folklore with rhythmic guitar. After disputes with Polygram, he founded African Beat label. His 1973 hit "Rosa Nokhwebwe" (about a heart-stealing beauty) topped Voice of Kenya charts for 14 weeks. He released numerous singles and albums, drawing from rural life, love, and social advice.
Key releases include the 1978 album Fanuel Amimo Paulina Wanje with tracks like "Paulina Wanje" and "Grace Yatisa Hena." Genres: Omutibo (Luhya guitar music). Appears on compilations like Usiende Ukalale: Omutibo From Rural Kenya.
Notable Songs (Listen Here)
Enjoy these timeless tracks embedded below. All available on YouTube; support Fanuel via M-Pesa.
Rosa Nokhwebwe
1973 · 4:51 · Iconic hit about unrequited love
Harusi ya Leah
1978 · 5:12 · Wedding celebration anthem
Ndeshera Omwana (Leave the Child)
1976 · 4:38 · Poignant family tale
Carina Osimbo
1983 · 4:41 · Romantic serenade
Mwana Yenyanga Nyina
Unknown · 4:15 · Mother-child bond
Other notable songs: Dickson Omuranda, Miriam Namai, Tenjerere, Bweya, Safari ya Magadi, Someni Vijana (debut).
Performance for Jomo Kenyatta (1972)
Post-Kapenguria celebrations, Fanuel performed at State House. He played "Safari ya Magadi" as Mzee Jomo Kenyatta danced with Margaret. Kenyatta gifted him KSh 500—equivalent to two cows then.
Later Life and Challenges (1990s–Present)
Leaving Nairobi's "money, women, drinks" scene, Fanuel embraced faith: “Confusion is complete.” He returned to Khwisero, marrying Pauline. Lost full sight in 2018; Pauline stroked in 2020, requiring physiotherapy. Lives on KSh 3,000 monthly royalties. In July 2025, visited by musicians Clayton Omwanga and Sally Siboi.
Recent Appearance (2025)
On June 28, 2025, at age 78, Fanuel performed a 22-minute medley on Citizen TV's Roga Roga, streamed by anchor Fred Machoka from Ambururu Waterfalls. The emotional set amid the mist moved audiences.
Legacy and Advice
Fanuel's innovations—homemade instruments, blending tradition with accessibility—influenced Luhya music. Hits remain wedding staples. His story inspires resilience.
“Soma kwanza. Muziki uwe part-time. Pata bibi mzuri mwekeze naye. Dunia si yetu.” – Fanuel Amimo, 2025
Support the Legend
Help with medical needs: M-Pesa to 0710-431-423 (Fanuel Amimo).
