Meet Waithaka wa Jane, better known by his stage name Karaiku Master, a rising star in the world of entertainment who has overcome the odds to make a name for himself despite dropping out of school during his third year of high school.
Born in 1998 into a family of eight, Waithaka wa Jane’s journey has taken him from a humble beginning as a drummer and guitarist to a respected musician and performing artist.
His musical journey commenced in 2016 when he relocated to Nairobi, thanks to the support of his elder brother who provided him with accommodation. During this time, he found an opportunity to play drums and guitar for the seasoned musician Pato wa Gathoni. Under Pato wa Gathoni’s guidance, Waithaka wa Jane honed his guitar-playing skills, setting the stage for his musical pursuits.
In the year 2020, he took a bold step into the spotlight as a solo artist. However, his progress encountered a significant setback when the global pandemic brought about economic challenges. Undeterred by the obstacles, he remained steadfast in his commitment to building his brand, even in the face of adversity.
During the pandemic, he exhibited immense dedication by accepting modest compensation for his performances and often foregoing personal demands, including performing live on radio stations. This willingness to adapt and persevere contributed to his growing recognition.
Notably, his breakthrough came through live performances on renowned radio stations such as Coro FM, where he was hosted by Joy wa Macharia, and Inooro FM, where Nyoks wa Katta was the host. These appearances showcased his musical talents and propelled his star to new heights.
Among his repertoire of successful tracks are hits like “Wangeci Mwana Ni Eee Kumosa,” “Niki Waheire,” “Wandigiire Mwana Ukihika,” and “Mwenda Ng’endo.” In addition to his original compositions, he has also demonstrated his versatility by creating captivating cover versions, including his rendition of the song “Karaiku.”
In a recent turn of events, he found himself in a legal predicament involving the esteemed old-school artist JB Maina. Allegations emerged that Waithaka wa Jane had performed JB Maina’s classic songs without proper authorization. Faced with the potential of legal action, he took the initiative to engage with JB Maina directly, and they ultimately resolved the matter through an out-of-court settlement.
While Waithaka wa Jane is open about his musical journey, he has chosen to keep his personal family matters out of the public eye, and only limited information is available in this regard. Nonetheless, he publicly shared the sorrow of losing his son, expressing his grief through a heartfelt message on his Facebook page.
