We know him as the maestro behind the mesmerizing riffs of Sauti Sol, the man whose "Fancy Fingers" have graced countless hit tracks. But Polycarp Otieno is tuning into a new solo venture, one that strikes a deeply personal chord. The celebrated guitarist has officially launched his very own line of guitars, aptly named Jawaya – a resonant Luo word meaning "guitarist." This isn't just a celebrity side hustle; it's the culmination of a lifelong dream, a harmonious blend of passion, heritage, and a desire to amplify African identity through the power of music. Get ready to witness Polycarp's instrumental vision take tangible form!
The name itself, Jawaya, speaks volumes about Polycarp's intentions. By choosing a Luo term, he's deliberately anchoring his brand in African culture, a refreshing move in a market often dominated by Western influences. But the significance goes deeper than just the name. The Jawaya guitar line features two distinct series, each carrying a profound meaning: Dala and Sayun.
Dala, a word that evokes "roots" and "home," is embodied in a brown finish, a visual representation of the earth and the African continent as a source of belonging. This series seems to pay homage to Polycarp's origins and the foundational sounds that have shaped his musical journey.
On the other hand, Sayun represents "aspiration" – whether it's a mental pursuit, a physical goal, or a spiritual yearning. This series embodies the journey of growth and the constant striving towards one's dreams. It's a guitar designed for those who are reaching for new heights in their musical expression.
Polycarp's connection with the guitar isn't a recent affair. As he shared on the Buzz Central Podcast with Cheptoek Boyo, his love affair with the instrument began at the tender age of seven. What started as playful experimentation with makeshift guitars crafted from "Kasuku tins and pieces of wood" has blossomed into a tangible reality. "Since I was a child, I’ve had this dream," Polycarp revealed, highlighting the enduring nature of his aspiration. "I used to make guitars out of Kasuku tins and pieces of wood just for fun, of course. I didn't even know they weren’t functional, but it’s something I loved doing. Now picking up the guitar later in life, it feels like full circle.”
For Polycarp, Jawaya is more than just a business venture; it's a continuation of a family legacy. Coming from a musical lineage where his grandfather was also a guitarist, this endeavor carries a deep personal significance. "It runs in the blood," Polycarp eloquently stated. "I feel like I’m leaving his dream, this is what he would have wanted me to do.” This connection to his roots adds another layer of depth and authenticity to the Jawaya brand, making it feel like a heartfelt offering rather than just a commercial product.
The deliberate choice of a Luo name for his guitar line underscores Polycarp's commitment to rooting his brand in African identity. "I wanted an African name specifically Luo because you need to see it and feel connected," he explained. This intentional decision sets Jawaya apart, positioning it as a brand that proudly embraces its heritage and aims to resonate with musicians who value and celebrate their African roots. The deeply African-inspired designs of both the Dala and Sayun series further solidify this commitment, creating instruments that are not only sonically appealing but also visually representative of a rich cultural heritage.
The announcement of Jawaya has, as expected, sparked conversations online, particularly regarding the pricing of the guitars. While Polycarp's dedicated fanbase has rallied in support, expressing their excitement and admiration for his new venture, some have termed the prices as "absurd." This is a common challenge for artists venturing into product creation – balancing the value of their artistry and the quality of their product with accessibility for a wider audience. It remains to be seen how the market will respond, but the initial buzz and the strong support from his loyal followers indicate a promising start for Jawaya.
While Polycarp remains an integral part of the iconic Sauti Sol, Jawaya represents a significant step in his individual artistic journey. It showcases his multifaceted talents, extending beyond performing and songwriting to encompass entrepreneurship and a deep passion for the instrument that has been his lifelong companion. Just as he has ventured into book writing alongside his wife, this guitar line adds another fascinating dimension to his creative portfolio. Jawaya is not just about selling guitars; it's about sharing his love for music, honoring his heritage, and empowering other musicians to find their own voice through instruments that are both beautiful and deeply meaningful. The launch of Jawaya marks an exciting new melody in the symphony of Polycarp Otieno's artistic endeavors, one that promises to resonate with musicians across Africa and beyond.
