Rajiv Okemwa, professionally known as Rajville (formerly Raj or Raj Kenya), is a celebrated Kenyan rapper, producer, and entrepreneur who defined a unique era in the East African music scene from the mid-2010s until his retirement in 2023. A pioneer of the modern "Kisii Rap" sound, Rajville was known not just for his trilingual flow (Kisii, Swahili, English), but for his business acumen, successfully bridging the gap between urban culture and corporate Kenya through strategic brand partnerships.
Musical Career
Rajville broke into the mainstream with a distinct fusion of Trap, Hiphop, and Afro-pop. He gained nationwide attention with his viral hit "Obe Baba," a track that celebrated his heritage while appealing to a mass audience. Known for his prolific work ethic, Rajville launched the famous #BaeTuesday series, where he released a high-quality song and video every Tuesday for months—a feat that remains unmatched in the Kenyan industry for its consistency and quality.
Brand Deals & Corporate Partnerships
Unlike many artists who relied solely on streaming and shows, Rajville was a marketing innovator who integrated major brands directly into his art. He secured genuine deals and executed high-level influencer campaigns that set him apart as a "corporate-friendly" urban artist.
- Supaloaf Partnership: Collaborated with the heritage bread brand to release the hit single "Supaloaf" (feat. Kristoff), blending a catchy club banger with effective product placement.
- SportPesa: A key figure in activations for the gaming giant, headlining major events like the SportPesa Festival and serving as a go-to artist for youth-focused engagements.
- Corporate Presence: His portfolio includes creative partnerships and integrations for brands such as DT Dobie and Nice & Lovely.
Entrepreneurship & Retirement
Rajville founded MusicBank Entertainment, an independent record label and production house, allowing him to retain full ownership of his masters and creative direction. After a decade of shaping the industry, Rajville retired from active music in 2023 to focus on private business ventures, leaving behind a blueprint for independent artists on how to monetize their brand beyond the stage.
After Music — Ventures
Since retiring from the stage, Rajville has channelled his creative and entrepreneurial energy into building digital products that serve the African music and tech ecosystem.
