Kenyan producers DJ Mura K.E and Big Nyagz in collaboration with singer N’Jiru have released a new single titled ‘Running’.
This Afro-house single stands out for its seamless blend of African percussion, electronic dance elements, and pop sensibilities, creating a sound that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in East African musical traditions.
‘Running’ is a vibrant and soulful Afro House track that fuses rich African rhythms with contemporary electronic dance and pop influences. The song pulses with medium, uplifting energy, driven by intricate layers of percussion, lush synthesisers, electronic drums, and distinctive African drum textures. This dynamic soundscape creates an infectious groove that is both modern and deeply rooted in tradition.
At the heart of ‘Running’ are the powerful vocals of N’Jiru, whose expressive delivery –blending Swahili and English – takes center stage. Her voice channels a journey of emotional self-discovery and resilience, exploring themes of love, self-worth, and the courage to break free from cycles of unfulfilling relationships. The result is a track that feels both sexy and uplifting, inviting listeners to move while reflecting on the importance of self-love.
Produced collaboratively by DJ Mura K.E and Big Nyagz, ‘Running’ showcases their unique ability to merge traditional African sonic elements with modern electronic production.
Recorded at Topklass Sounds Studio in Nairobi, the track stands as a testament to the evolving soundscape of East African music and the new wave of Afro House emerging from the city.
More than just a song, ‘Running’ represents a movement – resonating with audiences in Nairobi and beyond. It’s the sound of the city, the streets, and the future, taking Nairobi to the world.
The track opens with a pulse of layered percussion and synth textures, immediately establishing an energetic yet sensual mood.
‘Running’ maintains a driving, danceable groove, but it’s the emotional depth of the lyrics and N’Jiru’s delivery that give the song its heart.
Sung in both Swahili and English, the lyrics tell the story of someone caught in the heat of love (joto la penzi litanimaliza) yet wrestling with the realization that self-worth must come before any relationship (Nitajipenda navyotaka unipende – I will love myself the way I want you to love me).
The composition is rich with African percussion, bongos, and congas, interwoven with electronic drums and shimmering synths. This fusion not only pays homage to the Afro House genre but also highlights the collaborative spirit of the project. DJ Mura K.E, known for his innovative approach to Kenyan electronic music, and Big Nyagz, a rising force in the local dance scene, bring their signature production styles to the track, while N’Jiru’s vocal presence elevates the song with both vulnerability and strength.
The creative process behind ‘Running’ was highly collaborative.
“We wanted to make a track that you could dance to, but that also had a message-something that speaks to the struggle of loving yourself in a world that often asks you to give more than you receive,” DJ Mura K.E said.
N’Jiru adds, “Recording this song was cathartic. The lyrics are personal, but I know so many people, especially women, will relate to the feeling of running from love that isn’t serving you, and finally choosing yourself.”
“Running” is more than just a club-ready anthem; it’s a statement about self-empowerment and emotional honesty. The song’s positive emotional profile, medium energy, and sexy, uplifting mood make it a standout on any playlist, while its African roots ensure it resonates deeply with audiences both at home and abroad.
DJ Mura K.E is recognised for pushing boundaries in the Afro-house and electronic music scene in Kenya, known for his energetic live sets and genre-bending productions, whereas Big Nyagz brings a fresh, contemporary edge to the collaboration, with a background in both dance and electronic music.
N’Jiru, meanwhile, is a Nairobi-based singer-songwriter celebrated for her expressive vocals and ability to fuse African folk, soul, and pop influences. Her work often centers on themes of identity, empowerment, and emotional authenticity.
With ‘Running’, Dj Mura K.E, Big Nyagz, and N’jiru invite listeners to the dancefloor-but also to a space of self-reflection, urging everyone to keep moving forward, and above all, to choose themselves.
