Okello Max: What Working with Sauti Sol Taught Me

Okello Max has emerged as a leading figure in Kenya’s renewed rumba movement, combining traditional rhythms with contemporary production to reach audiences in Kenya and abroad.

Julius Mcrymboh Okello, known professionally as Okello Max, has built his career through steady development rather than sudden prominence. Before releasing his own music, he spent years observing, practising, and refining his skills. He has said this period shaped his focus on music that is sincere, emotionally grounded, and closely tied to culture.

His first single, Kiss, released in 2019, marked his formal entry as a solo artist. The song centred on romantic themes and was designed to be widely relatable. Its reception gave him confidence to pursue music that prioritised emotional connection and broad appeal.

A significant step in his career came through his association with Sol Generation Records, founded by the band Sauti Sol. As a background vocalist on the group’s song Extravaganza, Okello Max gained experience in professional production and collaborative work. The exposure expanded his audience and contributed to the growth of his individual profile.

Okello Max is recognised for blending traditional rumba and kompa with modern musical elements. Working closely with his team, he has aimed to create music that appeals to different age groups. This approach has introduced younger listeners to older styles while offering long-time fans a contemporary sound. 

His song Taya, from the album Healing, reflects this balance and has attracted listeners beyond Kenya. International audiences have responded to its emotional tone, even when unfamiliar with the language.

Language plays a central role in his work. Okello Max frequently sings in Luo, his mother tongue, and considers this an essential part of his artistic identity. While many listeners may not understand the lyrics, the emotional delivery remains accessible. This approach supports his view that African music can achieve global reach without losing its cultural foundations.

His reputation as a live performer has also contributed to his success. Appearances at events such as Blankets and Wine have demonstrated his ability to engage audiences and encourage participation. 

His performance skills were developed over years in school and university bands, restaurants, and online shows during the Covid-19 pandemic. He has described live performance as a space where the connection between artist and audience is most direct.

Musically, his work has progressed from earlier releases such as Boss to the more developed sound of Healing. This growth has been supported by the Kodong Clan, a collective he describes as a long-term movement rather than a conventional band. He views the group as a support structure intended to nurture artists beyond individual projects.

Okello Max has also spoken about structural challenges within the Kenyan music industry, particularly regarding festivals and artist representation. He has called for fairness and professionalism from event organisers, arguing that bias weakens confidence in the industry and limits opportunities for local musicians.

Looking ahead, he plans to release additional solo material and collaborative projects. He has indicated that several unreleased tracks are ready, but will be issued gradually. Scheduled performances in Kisumu and Nairobi are set to conclude a year defined by wider recognition and the international reach of Taya.

As the year ends, Okello Max has expressed appreciation for his supporters and reaffirmed his focus on producing music grounded in culture and emotion.