Very few women have dared to challenge the male dominance of Central Kenya's vibrant music industry and achieve the level of success that Queen Jane did. Many others who take up the challenge rarely rise beyond the roles of dancers and backup vocalists, as the terrain is treacherous for women and seemingly structured to favor men.

Performing in clubs all night, being away from family, and battling the stigma that often portrays musicians as vagabonds are just some of the challenges that have bogged down many aspiring female musicians. But Queen Jane defied the odds. She not only navigated these hurdles but also rose to the apex as one of the region's and the country's top musicians.

Her song "Mwendwa KK" remains a darling of music enthusiasts across Kenya. It is still one of the most requested songs in clubs and on radio stations, decades after its release. Themed on love and romance, the song showcases Queen Jane's exceptional singing prowess, pouring her heart out as she reminisces about the sweet moments shared with her lover. Her melodious voice captures the raw emotion in the song, making it timeless.

Born Jane Nyambura in Mugoiri, Murang'a County, on the eve of Kenya's independence in 1962, Queen Jane attended Elburgon Primary School and Likipia Secondary School, where she pursued her education with determination. Her musical journey began under the mentorship of Simon Kihara, popularly known as Musaimo, the Kikuyu Benga kingpin who also hails from Murang'a. Alongside her cousin Princess Aggie, Queen Jane started out as a backup vocalist for Musaimo, performing in a campaign song he had composed for veteran politician John Michuki, who was contesting the Kangema parliamentary seat in the 1983 elections against the formidable John Kamotho, a wealthy KANU stalwart.

The ladies impressed audiences, and in 1984, Musaimo took them to Nairobi, offering them a platform to grow. He composed the song "Mwana wa Ndigwa," performed by Queen Jane, her cousin Aggie, and Lady Wanja. The song became an instant hit, marking the beginning of their rise to stardom. The trio formed a formidable performing group, akin to the Rochereulets of Rumba legend Tabu Ley Rochereau in the 1970s. Performing under the name Kihara Sisters, a sub-unit of Musaimo's Mbiri Stars, they quickly became a household name.

After years of performing under Musaimo’s wing, the trio eventually felt ready to chart their own path. In 1991, they formed Queenja Les Les, named after Queen Jane herself. As the group’s leader, she assembled formidable talent, including renowned guitarist Dr. Michuki, Simon Nyaga, and others. The group made an immediate impact, releasing several popular songs. But it was the 1993 release of "Mwendwa KK" that catapulted them to the top. Their popularity soared, and they secured lucrative contracts to perform in top clubs across Kenya, satisfying the demand for quality local music at a time when visiting Congolese bands dominated the scene.

She built quite a rich discography that includes hits like "Muici Wa Itura," "Ndutige Kwiyaba," "Muthuri Teenager," "Muoyo Mwega," "Muthuri Uri Mukabi," "Arume Ni Nyamu," "Nduraga Ngwenda," "Ndiri Mutwe Mwega," "Mbia Ihenya," and "Njata Yakwa," among many others. Queen Jane’s band also became a breeding ground for raw musical talent, nurturing the next generation of stars who would go on to shape the industry. Among the big names who emerged from her mentorship were renowned guitarist Mike Murimi, Mugithi king Salim Junior, Mike Rua, Kamau Mapengo, and singers like Ciru and JJ Gitahi, among others. These are the superstars who helped create and popularize Mugithi, making Queen Jane the undisputed matriarch of the genre that has captivated the region for decades.

Queen Jane passed away on June 29, 2010, bringing the curtain down on an illustrious career that broke barriers and paved the way for countless women in music. This week marks the 15th anniversary of her death, with a series of events lined up in Nairobi to honor her life and musical legacy.

By Jerome Ogola

Jabulani Radio

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