Why Toxic Lyrikali Is the Future of Kenyan Hip-Hop
Toxic Lyrikali, born and raised in the vibrant neighborhood of Kayole, Nairobi, initially harbored dreams of becoming a professional footballer. However, during his high school years, he discovered his passion for music, particularly rap. This shift marked the beginning of his journey into the music industry.
Despite recent controversies surrounding his political endorsement at a State House event, Toxic Lyrikali remains one of Kenya’s most promising hip-hop talents a genuine storyteller, a voice for the streets, and an artist whose journey is an inspiring testament to passion, perseverance, and authenticity.
From Football Dreams to Music Reality: The Early Life of Toxic Lyrikali
Born and bred in Kayole, Toxic Lyrikali grew up immersed in the realities of Nairobi’s urban landscape. Like many Kenyan youths, his initial dream was not music but football. “I was a footballer in high school. I loved the game, but the streets were calling me differently,” Toxic once shared in an interview with ghetto Radio.
It was during his secondary school years that he found rap music not just as entertainment but as a form of expression. The beats and lyrics allowed him to channel his experiences, frustrations, and hopes. This passion quickly turned from hobby to career as he honed his craft, penning lyrics that spoke the language of the streets and the dreams of a generation.
Breakthrough with “Chinje”: A Hit That Resonated
Toxic Lyrikali’s rise to fame accelerated with the release of his track “Chinje”, a song that captured raw emotions and a strong message for the youth. The single’s gripping lyricism and catchy rhythm quickly caught fire on YouTube, amassing over 4 million views and making it a staple in Kenyan hip-hop playlists.
“Chinje is not just a song; it’s a movement,” Toxic explained. “It’s about change — the change we want to see in our lives and communities.” His ability to craft relatable messages that motivate and inspire is a hallmark of his music.
Consistent Hits and Streaming Success
Following “Chinje,” Toxic kept up the momentum with hit tracks like “Backbencher” featuring Countree Hype, which crossed the 1 million streams mark on Spotify and dominated the Top 100 Kenya Apple Music charts.
His music videos often feature the gritty yet vibrant backdrop of Kayole, grounding his work in reality and authenticity. These visuals have helped build a strong connection between him and his audience — many of whom see themselves reflected in his lyrics and settings.
What truly sets Toxic apart from many of his peers is his commitment to honesty. His music doesn’t shy away from the tough realities — poverty, struggle, resilience, and ambition. This authenticity has earned him loyal fans who value truth over manufactured celebrity personas.
In a recent interview, Toxic said,
“I rap what I live. If you don’t feel the streets, you can’t feel my music.”
His narratives are not just stories but lived experiences, making his artistry resonate deeply.
In August 9th 2025, Toxic Lyrikali found himself at the center of controversy after a performance at a youth empowerment event at State House, Nairobi. Prompted to chant “Tutam” — a phrase seen as endorsing President William Ruto’s second-term bid — Toxic faced backlash from fans accusing him of betraying his roots for political gain.
However, Toxic later clarified on social media that his chant was coerced, saying,
“Ground ni ile ile. Niseme one tam akiwa apo nipotezwe,”
This episode sparked a broader conversation about the challenges artists face navigating politics while maintaining their integrity. Many fans have since rallied behind Toxic, recognizing the difficult position he was placed in and emphasizing the need to separate art from politics.
Toxic Lyrikali has worked with a range of Kenyan artists, including Countree Hype and Badmanbright, helping to elevate Kenyan hip-hop on local and regional stages. His collaborations bring out different sides of his talent — from hard-hitting rap verses to melodic hooks.
His music is now a staple in clubs, radio stations, and online streaming platforms, contributing to the ongoing renaissance of Kenyan hip-hop.
Beyond music, Toxic Lyrikali actively engages with youth empowerment initiatives, often using his platform to inspire and motivate young people in Nairobi and beyond. His rise from humble beginnings to national recognition is a story that resonates with many aspiring artists and youths facing socio-economic challenges.
With millions of streams, a growing fanbase, and a reputation for authentic storytelling, Toxic Lyrikali stands as a beacon of hope in the Kenyan music industry. His journey underscores the power of staying true to one’s roots and using art as a tool for change.
The narrative surrounding him is evolving from controversy to comeback, from skepticism to admiration. As Toxic continues to grow, his music will no doubt inspire and empower generations to come.
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