Kenyan music star Nyashinski gave fans an exclusive first listen to his upcoming album Yariasu during a private listening party hosted in partnership with Johnnie Walker on Wednesday night.
The event, held at the Microbrewery in Nairobi, brought together a select mix of the city’s cultural tastemakers — from top creatives and DJs to media personalities, influencers, podcasters, and EABL executives — creating a rare intersection of Kenya’s creative heartbeat.
Performed live in its entirety, Yariasu takes listeners through themes of resilience, ambition, creativity, and identity, offering what Nyashinski described as a bold step forward in his artistic journey. The album officially drops on September 19, 2025, under Sony Music Africa.
“Yariasu is about being bold, open, and unafraid to try different things while still enjoying life,” Nyashinski told guests. “I wanted this album to challenge creativity and celebrate freedom of expression. Partnering with Johnnie Walker made it possible to share this vision in a meaningful way — not just about music, but about community and culture.”
The launch also carried symbolic recognition. On behalf of East African Breweries Limited, General Manager for Spirits Alvin Mbugua presented Nyashinski with a custom-engraved Johnnie Walker Blue Label bottle inscribed “from one icon to another.”
“Nyashinski is not just a musician, he is a cultural force whose artistry and fearless spirit bring the Keep Walking mantra to life,” Mbugua said. “With Yariasu, he continues to inspire a generation to dream bigger and walk bolder, and Johnnie Walker is proud to be part of that journey.”
Following his introspective 2020 debut Lucky You, the new project blends East African heritage with global influences, underscoring Nyashinski’s evolution as an artist and cementing his reputation as one of Kenya’s most influential voices.
The celebration also coincides with Nyashinski’s renewed role as Johnnie Walker Black Label brand ambassador — a partnership first unveiled in 2022 that has since powered collaborations from Shin City to Walker Town.
“This partnership is about building legacies and making history together,” Mbugua added. “From Shin City to Yariasu, our journey with Nyashinski has consistently shaped culture, sparked conversations, and redefined how we celebrate life’s remarkable moments.”
Yariasu will be available across major streaming platforms starting Friday.
