Kenyan singer-songwriter Bensoul has released his new album, Flight 420, a 13-track project built around reggae rhythms layered over the Afrosoul and Afropop sound that made his name. The album came out on October 30 under his Sudah Nation imprint, three days after a private listening session in Nairobi.

The release is one of the biggest Kenyan music drops of the month. Fans have been sharing favourite tracks online since it went live on streaming platforms.

Life, joy and passion

Bensoul, born Benson Mutua Muia, told Capital FM the album is about documenting life as it happens, not chasing radio hits. "This album wasn't about hits, or creating what is supposed to trend," he said, adding that he has reached a stage where he appreciates "the simple things in life".

The record is arranged around three themes:

  • Life, explored on songs such as "NYR", "Robin Hood" and "Cassanova", about growth that is rarely smooth.
  • Joy, captured on "NaEnjoy", which urges listeners to enjoy the present rather than wait for a perfect moment.
  • Passion, about the discomfort and thrill of stepping into the unfamiliar.

Speaking to KBC, he said he refuses to be boxed into a single genre. "I can't be put in a box," he said. "The only guiding force that can tell me what to do is God."

Collaborators

Capital FM's report on the listening session says the album features long-time collaborator Bien of Sauti Sol, rapper Scar Mkadinali, the duo Watendawili and Ywaya Tajiri. "NaEnjoy" features Watendawili, and "Mariwana" features Ywaya Tajiri.

Behind the desk were producers Hendrick Sam, Wuodomollo and Jaz Beatz. Trevor Magak recorded the instruments, backing vocalists Lisa Odour, Jojo Ocholla and Lexxie Waweru added harmonies, and Hornsphere arranged horns on selected songs. The team first came together at a writing camp in February.

Bensoul recalled driving to Ngong Hills after receiving the final masters. As the sun set and "Thank You" began playing, he said, he knew the album was ready.

An independent chapter

Bensoul rose with H_art the Band before becoming the first artist signed to Sauti Sol's Sol Generation Records in 2019. He has since gone independent through Sudah Nation, which he describes as "a place where you can be you, come as you are". He also co-wrote "Time Flies" on Burna Boy's Grammy-winning album Twice as Tall.

Flight 420 follows his earlier projects The Lion of Sudah and The Party & The After Party.

Photos: KBC (album artwork); Capital FM. Thumbnail design: HAMASTA MEDIA.