Mchezo Wa Jiji is a collaborative 4-track EP from Vijana Barubaru’s Mwanaa and 4Mr Frank White. Mchezo Wa Jiji pulses with the essence of Nairobi: love blooming, deception in the city’s shadows, ambitious late nights, gratitude despite everyday triumphs, rich roots, sacrifice and struggle. On April 14th, Mwanaa shared photos of the two recording together on his Instagram page. Later, on August 19th, the duo hinted at its release by posting a snippet of the last track, Toa, on 4Mr Frank White’s Instagram. The highly anticipated EP which has dropped today will be a collaborative hit among Kenyan hip-hop lovers. Its dives into different themes in just 4 tracks, showing the intent and versatility of the two artists.
Mchezo Wa Jiji Track by Track Breakdown
Mchezo Wa Jiji is fittingly the first track of the EP. The title translates to Game of the City, setting the tone for the various strategic moves one has to make in order to survive and succeed in Kenya’s capital. The chorus by 4Mr Frank White: “Zoea, zoea jiji, zoea, mchezo wa jiji X2” cautions listeners to acclimate or “get used to it” as the rules of the game never change. Mwanaa’s flow, delivery and punchlines were very enjoyable, especially the last verse where they deliver lines back to back. One of my favorite simple forms of wordplay comes in one of Mwanaa’s lines: “Ati Ellen? DeGeneres ye hunigeish, kunigeish, kunigeish!”
On the second track, Area Natoka, the two artists give respect to the neighbourhoods that raised them while painting the picture of what it was like growing up in those areas. 4Mr Frank White takes charge in the chorus once again, where he urges listeners to sit back so he can tell them about where he’s from over the aggressive beat. In his verse, he details some of his struggles coming up such as overcrowding and lack of a provider: “Place natoka, tunaishi single watu saba, na anaku breadwinner mi ndio mziza kwa dimanga.”
Believe and Pray, the third track on the EP, takes an introspective turn as the dynamic duo balances the themes, reminding us to give thanks in every situation, because every day is a gift. Mwanaa’s vocals shine on this track as he leads the chorus: “Father, make me not to go astray, bless me every step ahead / Tell my baby it’s okay, believe and pray, Holy Father, make my demons never stay.” The beat is the most unique and creative off the album as it is mellow and incorporates many unique sounds. Frank was very ambitious in his verse contrasting Mwanaa’s repentant mood.
Lastly, we finish off Mchezo Wa Jiji with, Toa, which featured a nice upbeat beat. The chorus by Mwanaa goes in depth into the necessity of money to enjoy life in the city. “Za macho, toa, za hongo, toa, za unga, toa, connections, toa, ndo utoboe hii inadi inabidi umetoa, za bouncer, toa, za waiter, toa, ndo mali ifikishwe inabidi umetoa, black tax, toa, na utoe za mpoa, ndo utoboe hii inadi inabidi umetoa.” 4Mr Frank White’s adlibs during the chorus add an interesting touch to the song.
Conclusion
The EP was short but sweet proving they are the duo we never knew we needed. It was a good listening experience as they used their knowledge of different genres to seamlessly create an enjoyable project. The production was top notch, with the use of live instruments enhancing the beats. Lyricism was on point with both artists commanding the storytelling well, leaving vivid pictures in one’s mind. I cannot wait for music videos and more collaborations between the two. I rate Mchezo Wa Jiji a solid 9.5/10. Read another article here.
- Toxic Lyrikali Releases First Single of 2026, Lowkey - February 3, 2026
- Album Review: 44 Affair EP By 4Mr Frank White - January 27, 2026
- Wakadinali Become Second Artists To Reach I Million Followers On Spotify After Sauti Sol - January 26, 2026