Kenyan entertainer and performer Chimano, has released his highly anticipated debut EP dubbed ‘HEAVY IS THE CROWN’, alongside “Hallelujah”- the project’s lead single and music video.
Written by Bien-Aimé with whom they sing with in Sauti Sol, the pop single with a classic feel echoes the EP’s concept of self-love and self-acceptance.
Chimano says, “It’s a wonderful song that generally speaks to everybody in humanity. It also speaks to me. It’s a message to myself where I am putting myself first and walking this journey of life with my true self and like-minded individuals and anybody who wants to join us on this amazing journey. And yes, the real Chimano has arrived!”
The 7-track EP, reminiscent of sounds inspired by late 80s and early 90s music, also features previously released feel-good hit single: “Friday Feeling”, “Hallelujah”, “Freedom”, “Beautiful”, “Loser”, “Mad Love” and “Stereo”. The overarching theme and inspiration in each of the EP tracks is the concept of truthfulness in one’s self-identity. This EP is the beginning of a new chapter for Chimano.
He reveals, “I needed to have the courage to be myself fully because of my newfound conviction. I needed to be that for others and to inspire them to see that they can also be themselves,” adding, “The crown, in this case, is on you and me. If you go through life in kindness, standing up for your dreams and aspirations, respecting your fellow human beings, and respecting the right of others to live unrestricted as long as it’s not an infringement on your human rights – then you have a crown on your head.”
As a member of Grammy-certified Kenyan music group, Sauti Sol, working on this iconic EP was revolutionary for Chimano. He had started writing some songs off the EP up to three years ago but didn’t know where they would fit. It was until Sauti Sol’s ‘Alone Together’ project came along that Chimano found a home for his own sound and lyrics. He says of the journey of working as a solo artist, “The working experience on this project was amazing with a roller coaster of feelings; I felt challenged, uplifted and I understood who I am more with this project and it’s one of the things that gives me undefiant confidence,” adding, “The experience has been very eye-opening to who I am. I made a new best friend within me that was waiting to come out to explore his creativity, image, and brand.”
Even though Chimano unveils his vulnerability to the listener, he confidently relays a fine project with a strong impulse to impel people to look within themselves and listen to their inner voices. Those lost in the path of their self-actualization can find their purpose in life or what they want to achieve in their careers and lives. The journey to this takes time but with patience, you will get there.
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