Like everything else, music is constantly evolving and UnKut the Cypher exists to celebrate that evolution in that, as much as we (fans of KE Hip Hop) appreciate, respect and love what already exists from the forefathers of Kenyan Hip Hop Culture, we also love to explore and nurture upcoming talent for future generations. Simply put, UnKut the Cypher is an event plugged to re-create Kenyan Hip Hop Culture by giving a platform where artists and producers can show case their skills as the fans enjoy the performances and music, while exposing this to potential new fans. It also aims to act as a bridge between the fans and the artists, DJs, producers, media personalities etc.
UnKut the Cypher, an event organised by Miss Ruby, is the first of its kind on Kenyan soil. Uncut generally means unedited and Miss Ruby says she changed the “C” to “K” to show that she’s all about KE.
“Radio has so many restrictions. You can’t cuss on air. So initially when I first used the word UnKut, it was for a Hip Hop roundtable and I wanted guests to be as raw as possible. Like, talk your sh*t!” Ruby explains.
The first edition happened in December on the 18th and great feedback and encouragement is what led to a second season, which took place on March 5th at Dream Lounge, Ngong’ Road. Season 2 featured production by Atwal, Odie on the Track, Superprodusir and ChahChah Rich of Urban Scorch Records.
Miss Ruby on the mic at UnKut the Cypher.
There were over 20 Hip Hop artists gracing the stage, and an All Star Set which featured fan favorites from the first season of UnKut; Steph Kapela, Dope I Mean, Asum Garvey, Baller 1254 and K Green. Dressed by Dilray Ltd, they showed why they had to come back and showcase their skills one more time, proving that, not only is Hip Hop not dead, the new school artists are also as gifted as the veterans.
All Star Set L-R Steph Kapela, Baller, Asum Garvey, K Green and Dope-I-Mean
Compared to WAPI (Words and Pictures), a British Council forum that was a platform for visual and verbal artists in their underground to showcase their art in the early 2000s, one of the most respected Hip Hopreneurs in Kenya said that UnKut proved that the new generation of artists is extremely talented and he had not seen that type of Hip Hop energy in Nairobi “in 2 years”.
On the decks were DJ Emvy and DJ Candy, who not only stunned with her beauty, but with her DJ set and knowledge of Kenyan Hip Hop as well.
Feedback from some of the attendees of #UnKutTheCypher season 2!
