The year 2012 was a good year for the local music industry, with top bands including Sauti Sol, Camp Mulla, Just A Band (JAB) and BMF releasing fantastic albums. UP put its ear to the streets and talked to a couple of music junkies to find out what new music is most anticipated in 2013. “Last year the industry was prolific, making this year unpredictable,” says JAB’s Blinky Bill.

The Star’s society columnist James Murua says this is the breakthrough year for talented and aggressive artists who’ve been neglected by the mainstream media. “More international artists will be brought into Kenya this year, including a prospect of having soul sister Angie Stone,” says social media guru and artists’ promoter Budha Blaze. The exceptional John Mayeresque duo of the two artists Dempsey and Kato Change is definitely something to look forward to.

Dempsey’s debut album is already in the works and expected to be out within the first quarter of 2013.Rappers Kanja and Rap Damu both have the drive and oomph to move and shake Kenyan hip hop. Last year, former Kleptomaniax member Collo featured in successful singles with Camp Mulla, Didge and P-Unit, and is finally standing out as a solo artist. Our eyes are set on his next steps and the bars he’ll be spitting this year.

Afro-fusion singers Winyo, Atemi and Sarah Mitaru are set to release new albums in 2013, which should make for authentic sounds. Bands Elani and Sarabi have both confirmed that the production of their debut albums is complete and ready for release in 2013. Amileena and Antoneosoul, both former contestants in reality music competitions, are proving that they have what it takes to make their solo careers soar higher. “The people are music. Where the people go, that’s where music goes,” said Erykah Badu the biggest international act to perform in Kenya in 2012. Now let’s trust that this year, more than any other, Kenyans will take our music industry to the next level.