Kenya’s award-winning musician and songwriter Ian Okwemba Oure, popularly known as Iyanii, has shared a candid revelation about one of his interactions with Gengetone artist Moses Otieno, also known as Fathermoh.
In an episode aired on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, on a local YouTube channel, Iyanii recounted a time when Fathermoh played him a song he was working on. In a moment of honesty, Iyanii admitted that he did not like the track but pretended to, in order to spare Fathermoh’s feelings and preserve their friendship.
“There was this time when Father Moh played for me one of his songs, and I lied that I liked it, but I did not like it; siku naipenda, in my honest opinion, but I did not want him to feel bad,” Iyanii explained.
When asked if Fathermoh had requested him to add a verse to the song, the ‘Pombe’ hitmaker jokingly revealed that he would have declined and “taken him rounds” instead.
Iyanii on His Music Career and Global Ambitions
This revelation comes as Iyanii continues to build his profile in the Kenyan music scene and pursue international recognition. During an appearance on the Oga Obinna show on Monday, December 15, 2025, the ‘Dongo Maber’ hitmaker expressed confidence in the diversity of his music and his ability to reach global audiences, including winning a Grammy Award.
“If there is something I know about myself, I’m the most diverse artiste. Ukiingia kwa YouTube yangu, you will find whatever you need. If you think I only do party songs, then wewe uko na shida. Nimetoa ngoma za mapenzi mingi, you do your research, and you will find how diverse I am. I know I will keep proving you wrong. Mimi nitakuwa the first artiste kuleta Grammy here in Kenya,” Iyanii said.
He highlighted the wide range of genres he has explored, from party tracks to love songs, emphasizing his commitment to challenging perceptions and pushing the boundaries of Kenyan music.
Adding to his motivation, Iyanii revealed that recognition from President William Ruto, who expressed admiration for his work, has been particularly encouraging.
“For the President to tell me that he is my fan, and he loves what I do, it means a lot,” Iyanii stated
noting that such support inspires him to continue creating music that resonates both locally and internationally.
