Rapping in Dholuo is a feat that only a few artists have achieved.
While there are many artists who sing in Dholuo, only a handful can rap in the native language.
The reason why many Luo rappers like Octopizzo, Juliani, Rabbit and Khaligraph Jones choose to rap in Kiswahili and English is to reach the international audience. Rapping in Dholuo will only limit their audience to Luo speaking communities.
Some of top artists in this genre from the Luo region include;
1. Poxi Presha
His real name was Prechard Pouka Olang Poxi presha. He was one of the pioneer rappers who used Dholuo as his trade mark language. With characteristic dreadlocks, he was one of the fiercest rappers in Kenya. He gave us major hits like Jaber and Otonglo time. It is the track Otonglo time which propelled him to the national scene.
Poxi Presha died in October 2005.
2. GidiGidi MajiMaji
GidiGidi MajiMaji was a rap-duo who made a name for themselves not only in Kenya, but also in Africa. They sand in Dholuo and their songs were loved by many people.
They produced hits such as Atoti, Nyako aheri, Nyorembo, Many Faces, Ting’ badi malo, and Unbwogable. The track, Unbwogable became a 'national anthem' in the community. It was used by politicians in political rallies.
3.Papa Veen
Papa Veen is the new kid on the block. He used to record and perform his music in Kisumu, but has since moved to Nairobi.
His hit track, Ombulu has received a lot of airplay.
4. Vicmass Luodollar
He is also a new kid on the block. His story, of how he struggled to record music while working as a hawker has been told several times in various media outlets.
He came to the limelight with his remix track, Bank Otuch which he recorded with rapper Octopizzo. He has since produced several other songs like Simbe adek, Pesa and Kitenge.