Ohangla music has long been the heartbeat of Luo culture, celebrated for its deep rhythms, storytelling, and traditional dance energy.
However, today, a fast-rising artiste, Abongo Jakabwana, is giving it a modern revival that is connecting with a new generation, gaining popularity for his unique blend of Ohangla with other genres like dancehall and creating a fresh, Gen Z-friendly sound that is turning heads both online and offline
Musical approac
Speaking during a past interview with Mzuka Kibao TV, the Digi Digi hitmaker disclosed that it is rare to find an Ohangla musician who can sing in English, Swahili, and Dholuo.
He explained that most of his songs have Swahili words, adding that his Luo audience understands Dholuo deeply, unlike others from different ethnicities.
“It is hard to find an Ohangla, Ohangla musician to sing in English, Swahili, and Dholuo. Most of my songs, I do not think there is a Swahili word missing,” Jakabwana revealed.
Sharing the inspiration behind his rhythmic style that brings a new energy to Ohangla, Jakabwana said he composes his songs in English, Swahili, and his mother tongue so that non-Luos can also understand his message, while staying true to the rich cultural roots of the genre.
“We, as Luo, we understand Dholuo deeply, more than others understand it; that is why I compose my songs in English, Swahili and my mother tongue. I want both Luos and non-Luos to understand what I am singing,” he added.
By blending languages and layering traditional Ohangla beats with a modern twist, the Auma hitmaker is giving the genre a fresh energy that is connecting strongly with Gen Z, making it more appealing and resonating with a generation raised on social media, short-form content, and viral dance trends.
Turning Ohangla viral
In the digital space, particularly on TikTok, Jakabwana’s songs are fuelling a growing movement among young creators who are rediscovering Ohangla through short videos and dance trends.
His viral hit dubbed ‘Digi Digi’ has sparked the popular #DigiDigiChallenge, with thousands of users sharing creative dance routines blending traditional Ohangla steps with trendy Gen Z moves, along with fun lip-syncs to the track.
Jakabwana’s career is marked by his energetic performances and his use of multiple languages to reach a wider audience.
