Celebrated Kenyan music producer and director J Blessing has unveiled a powerful 14-track tribute album dedicated to the late Raila Odinga, featuring the soulful artistry of the Maestro.exe Band. The project, titled “Baba: The Legacy Lives On,” is a heartfelt musical journey that celebrates Raila’s enduring influence on Kenya’s political and cultural landscape.
Blending Afro-fusion, Benga, and orchestral elements, the album captures the spirit, resilience, and humanity of one of Kenya’s most iconic leaders. Each track resonates with emotion and depth, designed to mirror Raila’s lifelong fight for justice and unity.
“A Celebration of Humanity and Leadership”
Speaking during the album’s private launch in Nairobi, J Blessing explained that the project was inspired by a desire to immortalize Raila Odinga’s legacy through the universal language of music.
“This album is a celebration, not just of Raila’s political journey, but of his humanity. He inspired generations — and we wanted to translate that inspiration into sound,” said J Blessing.
Collaborations and Sound Design
The album features collaborations with both established and emerging Kenyan artists, alongside the Maestro.exe Band, whose live instrumentation brings a lush, organic texture to the sound. Tracks such as “The People’s Voice,” “Tialala,” “Freedom Drum,” and “Legacy Eternal” blend traditional Luo rhythms with modern production techniques, creating a sonically rich tribute that reflects Raila’s deep connection with the people.
According to J Blessing, the production took several weeks, with contributions from musicians across Kenya. “We wanted every note to carry meaning — to reflect what Raila stood for: resilience, justice, and unity,” he added.
Fans Hail Album as “A Musical Documentary”
Since its release, “Baba: The Legacy Lives On” has been trending across major streaming platforms including Spotify, Boomplay, and YouTube. Fans have praised the album’s authenticity and emotional resonance, describing it as “a musical documentary of Raila’s life.”
Critics have highlighted the album’s exceptional production quality and thematic consistency, calling it one of the most moving musical tributes ever produced in Kenya’s history.
Supporting Youth and Civic Education
In keeping with Raila Odinga’s lifelong advocacy for youth empowerment and civic responsibility, J Blessing revealed that proceeds from the album will go towards supporting youth art initiatives and civic education programs inspired by Raila’s values and leadership philosophy.
“Baba: The Legacy Lives On” not only celebrates a national hero but also continues his mission of inspiring the next generation to lead with courage, unity, and integrity.
