Award-winning rapper Khaligraph Jones has voiced frustration over what he sees as selective recognition within the Kenyan music scene, claiming he is often left out when conversations about the industry’s success arise.
The rapper, popularly known as “OG”, argued that his name is rarely mentioned when Kenyan music is being celebrated, but quickly comes up when criticism or controversy is involved.
Khaligraph did not mince his words as he called out what he believes is a pattern of bias.
“Every time it’s about giving Kenyan music props or saying Kenyan music is doing well, there are certain names you people mention and in most cases, Khaligraph Jones is not one of them. And you know that because you intentionally leave it out,” he said.
The rapper went on to highlight what he sees as a double standard of being excluded from praise but included when artists are under scrutiny.
“So kuna wale ma-favorites… lakini wacha ifike wakati mnataka kutukana wasanii ama muambie wasanii kuna issue hawaja-address, hapo ndio sasa mnajua Khaligraph yuko,” he added.
Translated loosely, Khaligraph suggests that while there are “favorites” consistently celebrated, he is only brought into the conversation when there is a need to criticize musicians or demand accountability.
Referencing a common expectation placed on artists, Khaligraph touched on the idea that musicians should act as spokespeople for societal issues.
“You guys always say that a musician is supposed to be the mouthpiece of the community… wacha tu tukose kufanya hivyo, hapo ndio mnajua Khaligraph yuko,” he said.
He expressed frustration with being called upon to speak on serious matters while being overlooked in moments of recognition or success.
Khaligraph’s sentiments echo a broader concern among artists who feel that acknowledgment in the industry is not always based purely on merit. Instead, narratives, media preferences, and public perception often shape who gets visibility.
Despite the criticism, Khaligraph remains one of Kenya’s most prominent hip-hop figures, with a strong fan base and a catalogue that has consistently pushed the genre’s boundaries locally and internationally.
