From Fagilia and Kikulacho to First Lady and King’asti, Mr Nice’s chart-topping hits defined the East African music scene in the mid-2000s. He quickly established himself as one of the pioneers of the Bongo Flava genre.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Trending Now: UNTOLD EFFECTS OF BBL: What Many Don’t Talk About
His name and songs echoed across the region, dominating radio playlists and making him a household figure from Tanzania to Kenya and Uganda.
Yet, just as swiftly as he rose to stardom, Mr Nice’s fame began to fade, leaving many wondering how such a celebrated artist could decline so suddenly.
Career Peak
Born Lucas Mkenda, Mr Nice rose to prominence at a time when internet access was limited and social media had yet to take off. This meant his music relied heavily on radio and television, which gave his songs massive exposure across East Africa.
Although he debuted with Kidali Po in 1999, it was his second album, Rafiki (2002), that propelled him into superstardom. Tracks such as Fagilia Wote, Rafiki, Kikulacho, and Kuku Kapanda Baiskeli became instant classics and marked the turning point of his career.
Challenges After Fame
Despite his success, Mr Nice’s career took a downturn. Reports suggested he faced financial struggles, even bankruptcy. Rumors of alcoholism further fueled speculation about his decline, though he consistently denied that drinking ever affected his career.
In a past interview, he dismissed claims of being broke, insisting:
“What people don’t know is that they gave me a lot of money that I am still using to date. Those who claim I am broke don’t know what they are talking about – I am very loaded.”
By the 2010s, however, he struggled to compete with a new wave of Tanzanian stars, including Ali Kiba and Diamond Platnumz, who were reshaping the Bongo Flava landscape.
Life in Kenya
In 2013, Mr Nice attempted a comeback after signing with Kenya’s Grandpa Records. The partnership was short-lived, marred by accusations of unprofessionalism and disputes over unpaid dues.
Seeking a fresh start, he relocated to Kenya in 2020, hoping to revive his career in a new environment. However, he has yet to release a track that matches the success of his mid-2000s hits.
Legacy
Though no longer at the forefront of East African music, Mr Nice remains a nostalgic figure whose songs defined an era. His journey from meteoric rise to decline serves as a reminder of how quickly fame can shift in the ever-evolving music industry.
