Music can be defined differently depending on how one connects to it but the basic definition of music is simply a combination of vocal or instrumental sounds (or both) in such a way as to produce beauty of form, harmony, and expression of emotion. Music brings together different stakeholders who plays an important role from the idea, through production to consumption of music. Record labels or music labels have been around nearly as long as recorded sound. For years, being signed to a label was thought to be synonymous with “making it” in the music industry. While the internet and digital technology have made it easier for artists to succeed without record labels, they still play major roles in the industry.
In the beginning of the 1930s, music labels were introduced in Kenya and ever since there has been am insurgence of major labels that have given birth to incredible talents in the field of music. Ogopa Deejays, Calif Records, main Switch Production, Homeboyz Production, just to mention a few ,have and are playing a role in shaping the music industry.
Following this steps is Budhouse Music. Founded in 2019 by the visionary CEO and in house producer Acemok De Rebel. Budhouse Music based in the bustling streets of South B, Nairobi Kenya, is making waves in the Kenyan music scene. This label is a testimony of power of determination, hard work, creativity and self love for music going against all odds of music labels being outdated in todays digital music production and distribution era. Budhouse Music is not just a label; it’s a family that is rewriting the rules of the game, one hit at a time.
The Birth of Budhouse.
Acemok Da Rebel’s journey towards founding Budhouse Music can be traced back to his childhood. In 2008, Acemok crossed paths with one of the current label’s artist King Kidd and watching Kidd create music on his laptop with a microphone ignited a dream within Acemok – a dream to be a CEO of a record label one day. Fast forward to 11 years later, Acemok’s dream started taking shape when he acquired equipment to set up his own studio.
The Budhouse Roster
Since Acemok’s dream coming to life, Budhouse Music became more than just his dream but now a collective of diverse and immensely talented personnel from producers, videographers, songwriters, rappers to musicians. The label’s journey began with the signing of Tulia, who has since become a respected female rapper in the Kenyan hip hop scene. Throughout her journey with Budhouse Music, Tulia has achieved great heights in her music career so far releasing bangers which has cemented her name as one of the best behind the mic. Her biggest achievement yet came when she was nominated for the prestigious UNKUT Hip-Hop Awards. Depo Dice, known for crafting the theme song for Andrew Kibe’s show, soon joined the ranks.
Acemok brought in his childhood friend, King Kidd – the label’s most versatile artist – paving way for Outlaw and The Don, both masters of conscious rap, joining the Budhouse Music family and bringing with them their lyrical prowess to the label. Ryan Eutycus, in-house director for Budhouse Music, brought his visual artistry to the mix, founding “The Wave,” a platform for creating visually stunning videos for Kenyan artists. Nazz Papa Afrika added a dancehall flavor to the label’s sound, and Ms. She, known for creating the theme song in the Showmax Series “Kina,” brought her enchanting vocals to the family.
A Family Before Business
What sets Budhouse Music apart from other music labels in the country and the world is its inclusivity and its mantra of family before business. This philosophy creates a unique cohesiveness that propels their careers organically, earning them a fanbase that’s fiercely loyal. While other labels may prioritize profits, Budhouse Music prioritizes the passion and artistry of its members.
A Growing Catalogue
The label’s catalogue is expanding rapidly, with numerous singles, albums, mixtapes, EPs, LPs, and collaborations being released each year from each artist signed to the label. They have not shied away from working with other artists in the industry, constantly pushing the boundaries of their craft. Within a short period, they’ve garnered over 96k views on YouTube and 2.1k subscribers—a remarkable feat for a label still in its early stages.
A Bright Future
Despite the challenges of the Kenyan music industry, Budhouse Music stands relentless, hard-working, and eager to learn. In 2023 alone, the label dropped several exciting projects, including the TNT EP by Tulia ft. Tunji, the Choma EP by Depo Dice, the DBM Mixtape by King Kidd, the L.O.S.T mixtape by Nazz Papa Afrika, and the Endorphins Mixtape by Outlaw. Acemok Da Rebel is also cooking up something big—an all-inclusive Budhouse album that will feature both in-house artists and prominent names in the Kenyan industry.
In Conclusion
With their consistency, dedication, and evolving marketing strategies, Budhouse Music is poised to take over the Kenyan music industry within the next five years. They are not just a record label; they are a movement—a movement of artists who are reshaping the landscape and pushing the boundaries of music. So, keep an eye out for Budhouse Music, because they’re about to rewrite the history of Kenyan music.
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