Ywaya Tajiri (born Ywaya Eugine Simon),known professionally as Ywaya, is a Nairobi-based Kenyan singer, songwriter, instrumentalist, and educator whose work sits at the heart of East Africa’s evolving contemporary sound. Widely respected for his songwriting, Ywaya has contributed to records by acclaimed artists including India.Arie, Sauti Sol , Bien, Karun, Suzanna Owiyo, Matata, Trio Mio, Okello Max, and more. His ability to craft emotionally resonant and culturally grounded music has positioned him as a key creative voice across the region. He is one half of the genre-blending duo Watendawili, and a member of the influential music collective KODONGKLAN, both of which continue to shape Kenya’s alternative and contemporary music landscape. Ywaya’s songwriting catalogue includes standout records such as Taya (Okello Max), Cham Thum (Atoti) (Watendawili), Lil Mama (Sauti Sol), SINA NOMA (Charisma), INAKUBALIKA (Matataa ft. Watendawili), and Dnd (We are Nubia), Chai ya saa kumi (Ywaya Tajiri), among others. Beyond the studio, Ywaya is also a dedicated mentor and educator, actively contributing to the growth of emerging artists through songwriting and performance training. As a performer, he has graced some of Nairobi’s most notable stages with Watendawili, including Blankets & Wine, Sol Fest, Peaches & Cream, and Folk Fusion, as well as the duo’s own curated event, Wozaa World.

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Ywaya Tajiri

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