Bill ‘Blinky’ Sellanga: The Evolution of a Kenyan Musical Icon
Bill ‘Blinky’ Sellanga, the frontman of Just A Band, is a household name in Kenya’s music industry. Known for their unique blend of electronic, funk, and Afro-pop sounds, Just A Band has captured the hearts of music lovers across the country. In this exclusive interview, Blinky opens up about his life before the music and the journey that led to the formation and success of Just A Band.
Early Life and Influences
Born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya, Blinky’s love for music started at a young age. Growing up in a musical family, he was exposed to various genres and styles. His father, a jazz musician, played a significant role in nurturing his passion for music. Blinky recalls spending hours listening to his father’s vinyl records, immersing himself in the sounds of jazz legends like Miles Davis and John Coltrane.
The Formation of Just A Band
In the early 2000s, Blinky and his friends Dan Muli and Jim Chuchu came together to form Just A Band. Initially, they started as a joke, playing cover songs at local gigs. However, their chemistry and shared love for experimentation soon led them to explore their unique sound. Drawing inspiration from diverse musical influences such as Fela Kuti, Kraftwerk, and Daft Punk, Just A Band began creating their own music.
The Evolution of Just A Band
Just A Band’s breakthrough came in 2008 with their hit single “Ha-He.” The song became an instant sensation, topping charts and gaining international recognition. This success paved the way for their debut album, “Scratch to Reveal,” which showcased their innovative approach to music production.
Over the years, Just A Band continued to push boundaries and experiment with different genres. Their sophomore album, “82,” saw them delve deeper into electronic music, incorporating elements of house and techno. The album received critical acclaim, further solidifying their position as pioneers of Kenya’s electronic music scene.
Life Before the Music
Before his musical journey took off, Blinky pursued a career in architecture. He holds a degree in Architecture and Urban Design from the University of Nairobi. While he enjoyed the creative aspects of architecture, Blinky felt a deep longing for music. He eventually made the bold decision to pursue music full-time, leaving behind his architectural career.
Blinky’s solo career
In addition to his work with Just A Band, Blinky has also ventured into a successful solo career. His debut solo album, “Everyone’s Just Winging It and Other Fly Tales,” was released in 2018. The album showcases Blinky’s versatility as an artist, blending various genres and incorporating his signature electronic sound.
The Future of Just A Band
As Just A Band approaches their 20th anniversary, Blinky reflects on the band’s journey and the impact they have had on Kenya’s music scene. While the band members have pursued individual projects in recent years, they have not ruled out the possibility of future collaborations. Blinky believes that Just A Band’s legacy lies in their ability to inspire and pave the way for the next generation of Kenyan musicians.
Conclusion
Bill ‘Blinky’ Sellanga’s story is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and embracing creativity. From his early days listening to jazz records to becoming one of Kenya’s most beloved musical icons, Blinky’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. As he continues to evolve as an artist, we can only anticipate more groundbreaking music and innovation from this talented musician.