Stan

• country:Kenya
• region:East Africa
• style(s):Afro, Acoustic
• label:Penya / UpToYouToo
• type:Solo, Composer/Songwriter
• gender:male
• instrumentation:vocal
• artist posted by:Penya / UpToYouToo

Line up

• Stan Nganga (Vocalist)

Links

• Stan Myspace Page
• Label Page

A multi-gifted performer, Stan M. Nganga, was born on November 12th, 1979 at the Pumwani maternity hospital in Nairobi. Stan was raised by a single hardworking mother but spent the first years of his life together with his younger brother in the care of his grandmother who would play them her favourite music. It inspired him at an early age. Another source of inspiration came from his aunt who loved singing. To Stan music was instant and despite his tender years he came to grow fond of some of its most creative genres, especially Jazz & RnB.

In high school he tried out for the school choir and got a negative feedback. Stan however kept faith and knew that he would one day find a way to express his passion for music. In 2000 he enrolled for French classes at the French Cultural Centre (FCC) of Nairobi, a location that would prove to be life changing as he was both introduced to salsa dancing and music there. He ended up spending many hours rehearsing in the garden. One thing led to another and soon he found himself teaching salsa to the USIU (United States International University) students. Together with Benjamin Wanjohi, one of the salsa students, he later formed an acoustic musical duo called Stan&Benji.

While spending his free time in the garden of the FCC he further developed his musical skills and also started playing the guitar. The spot became a creative oasis for aspiring artists, some of which now belong to the newly launched "Imekubaliwa" creative artist network featuring Stan himself, Dela, Sauti Soul & Tiffany.

For almost a decade Stan would jump in and out of recording studios but he never really found what he was looking for. His creative freedom was usually challenged excessively and it required resources he didn't have. Until he came across the Eastlands based Penya label/studio in Buru Buru. Together with producer Wawesh they were able to complete his long awaited debut album in less than 3 months. The new environment allowed Stan to capture and express ideas that he had carried along with him for what seemed as forever. 15 songs presented in 15 different ways and showcasing a creative & unique voice from Kenya, telling stories of love, pain & joy, all in a way that everyday people can relate to. It is Ethno, Soul, Jazz, Latin, Reggae, Funk & Urban - local music with an international appeal.